Durham County Names Shirley McFadden Internal Audit Director

Durham, N.C. - Durham County Government is pleased to announce the appointment of Shirley McFadden as the new internal audit director for Durham County, effective April 13, 2026. Following a nationwide search, McFadden was selected for her extensive audit experience spanning city, county, and state government and successful implementation of systems and processes that improve and oversee numerous departments’ workflows.

“Shirley brings a diverse and deep portfolio of experience that will strengthen Durham County Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public resources. Her expertise in internal auditing and organizational risk management will help us enhance our operations, refine our processes, and ensure we continue delivering high‑quality services to Durham residents,” said County Manager Claudia Hager.

McFadden arrives with more than 20 years of experience in internal audit, compliance, and risk assessment, including her recent role as Deputy Director of Internal Audit for Guilford County, where she was responsible for developing the County’s annual audit plan, directing quality assurance across departments, assessing business processes, and improving efficiency for the County. She previously served in the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as the Business System and Internal Control Manager, designing workflow automation for the Department’s internal and external customers and analyzing controls for the new request system procedures, among other duties. McFadden began her career in internal audit at the Wake County Public School System before serving at the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor. She also worked for the City of Raleigh, where she was a Senior Internal Auditor. 

As Internal Audit Director, McFadden will supervise an internal audit team tasked with conducting performance audits, evaluating internal controls, enhancing transparency, and promoting fiscal responsibility.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to serve Durham County as the Director of Internal Audit and to partner as a trusted advisor—conducting independent, thoughtful reviews that strengthen our operations, support effective and efficient performance, and ensure compliance. I look forward to leading with respect, integrity, and a commitment to continuous improvement,” said McFadden.

 

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