University of West Florida names new chief audit executive

The University of West Florida welcomes David Bryant as the new chief audit executive, effective May 12, 2025. In this position, Bryant will conduct and supervise integrated audits and investigations for the University, as well as provide advice on internal control, process improvement and compliance. Bryant will replace Cindy Talbert, who is retiring from UWF after 15 years.

“We rely heavily on the expertise of our chief audit executive and will greatly miss Cindy Talbert, who has earned respect from the campus and her colleagues in the state as a high performing professional,” UWF President Martha D. Saunders said. “David is a good fit for UWF.”

Prior to accepting this position, Bryant served as the director of internal auditing for the Escambia County School District, where he worked for more than 20 years leading a variety of auditing functions including assessing risks, processes and internal controls; performing financial, operational and compliance audits; conducting financial investigations; coordinating financial disaster recoveries; developing future audit leaders; and providing actionable recommendations to senior management.

“I am excited to welcome David Bryant as the new Chief Audit Executive for the University of West Florida,” said UWF Trustee Chris Young, who helped with the search. “His extensive experience in audit and compliance, combined with his deep ties to our community, make him uniquely qualified to support the University’s mission of accountability and excellence. I am looking forward to working with Mr. Bryant and am confident he will provide strong, objective leadership that will benefit both the Board and the entire UWF community.”

Bryant is a double graduate from the University of West Florida, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and a Master of Accountancy. He also holds the following certifications: Certified Internal Auditor, Institute of Internal Auditors; Certified Public Accountant, Board of Accountancy – State of Florida, Certified Fraud Examiner, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners; Certified Government Financial Manager, Association of Government Accountants; Certified Government Audit Professional, Institute of Internal Auditors; and Certification in Risk Management Assurance, Institute of Internal Auditors.

“I have dedicated my career to internal auditing in the education field,” Bryant said. “I look forward to adding my expertise to the strong leadership team at my alma mater. Great things are happening at UWF, and I am excited to contribute to its continued success.”

For more information about Internal Auditing & Management Consulting at UWF, visit uwf.edu/iamc.