Paul D. Willson
Audit-Managing Director
Grant Thornton Advisors LLC
Paul Willson, CPA, CISA, CITP, is a Managing Director with 15+ years leading IT audit and compliance across finance, tech, healthcare, and insurance sectors.
Kansas City, Missouri
Industries
- Financial Services
- Asset Management
- Banking
- Energy
- Insurance
Service Experience
- Audit & Assurance Services
Paul Willson
Executive summary
Paul Willson is a seasoned audit and compliance executive with over 15 years of experience driving strategic growth and operational excellence across the financial services, technology, healthcare, and insurance sectors. As a Managing Director, Paul leads complex third-party risk engagements including SOC 1, SOC 2, HITRUST, and other compliance initiatives for organizations nationwide.
He is a recognized leader in IT audit, where he managed enterprise-wide compliance programs, executed high-impact audits, and delivered actionable insights to executive leadership. Paul is known for his ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor emerging talent, and deliver client-centric solutions that align with regulatory standards and business goals.
Paul holds an MBA from Grantham University and a BS in Accounting with a minor in Computer Information Systems from Missouri State University. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and actively participates in professional organizations including ISACA and the Institute of Internal Auditors.
Professional qualifications and memberships
- CPA (state of Missouri)
- CITP (Certified Information Systems Professional)
- CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)
- IIA (Institute of Internal Auditors)
- ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association)
- Missouri State Society of CPA’s
Community involvement:
- Volunteer Board Member Gordon Parks Elementary School
Education
- MBA Grantham University
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Missouri State University, Minor Computer Information Systems
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