Laura Ward, CIA, CCSA, CGAP, CRMA

Laura Ward has extensive work experience in risk management, internal audit, and government auditing. Laura currently holds the position of Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at Firstmark Credit Union. Prior to this, Laura was an Instructor - Distinguished Faculty at IIA-The Institute of Internal Auditors for many years. Laura also served as the Internal Audit Manager at the City of Tulsa and as the Director of Audit Services at the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Additionally, Laura has held roles as the SVP/Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Vice President of Risk Management at Pima Federal Credit Union. Laura has also worked as the Director of Internal Audit at Vantage West Credit Union and as an Audit Supervisor at the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Laura began their career as a Senior Auditor at the City of Tucson. With a strong background in risk management and internal audit, Laura brings valuable expertise to their role as Chief Risk Officer.

Laura Ward obtained their Associate's degree in Psychology from Tulsa Community College in 1982 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education & Psychology from the University of Oklahoma between 1983 and 1986. Laura has additional certifications including Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) obtained in May 2003, Certified Control Self Assessment Specialist obtained in November 2004, Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) obtained in May 2007, Certified Risk Management Assurance Specialist obtained in December 2012, Certified in Tracom Social Styles obtained in August 2014, and a COSO Internal Control Certificate obtained in March 2021.