Bambi Gifford

About Bambi Gifford

I love to see people succeed! This has driven my career in internal audit where I positively impact the entire organization through a consistent focus on continuous improvement. As a leader, I foster a culture of growth and excellence, nurturing the talents of my team members and empowering them to reach their full potential. By providing mentorship, training, and personalized development plans, I cultivate a high-performing and engaged workforce.I have enjoyed progressive leadership positions within my career in audit, accounting, and finance. My personal and professional experiences have taught me the following:I am a leader in my field- I am constantly learning because I understand that business is always changing, and risks constantly evolve- I volunteer with The Institute of Internal Auditors to meet other ambitious professionals and advocate for the profession- I connect people to further their organizations and careers- I live the internal audit brand – “elevating impact”.I can align, lead, and grow high-performing teams- I staff, onboard, and train the internal audit team- I manage internal controls testing, consistently meeting our deadlines- I recognize the value of staff with diversity in experiences- I create new and more efficient ways of working through consistency and technology. I can influence the culture of an organization, as well as people individually- As the Chair of the Women in the Workplace ERG, I share the importance of owning your career through personal development planning, leadership tips, and building relationships- I developed a comprehensive onboarding program for new auditors- I created a competency guide to allow my team to self-assess and set goals to continuously grow.I am a business “partner” in all senses of the word – I add value and work to help enhance business efficiency and effectiveness- I stay up to date on industry risks and trends, and technology tips and innovation- I listen to challenges and concerns, then provide support, knowledge, and ideas for improvement- I speak the “same language” to ensure the message is communicated effectively.I enjoy meeting new people and hearing different perspectives. Reach out if you would like to chat about risk, the audit profession, learning and development, or inclusion and diversity. Specialties:Talent Management | Internal Controls | Inclusion & Diversity | Project Management | Change Leadership | Continuous Improvement | Communication | Presentation | Risk | Analytical Thinking

Experience

1. Director of Internal Audit

   U.S. Xpress, Inc.

   Apr 2025 — Present · Chattanooga, TN, US

Education

• Colorado Technical University

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation

  2009 — 2011

• The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Accounting and Business/Management

  1997 — 2001