Sharon Thompson
Senior Director, Internal Audit
Sharon Thompson is a results-oriented executive with proven expertise in financial, internal audit management and business advisory services, and serves as Arabella Advisors’ Senior Director of Internal Audit. In this new role, Sharon is responsible for evaluating and enhancing Arabella’s system of internal controls, processes and procedures, as well as conducting comprehensive audits to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of risk management practices, financial reporting and compliance with regulatory standards.
Sharon joined Arabella in December 2024 after a 30-year career spanning public accounting, corporate finance, internal audit, and business management consulting. In her former roles as VP, Audit & Advisory Services for AARP and Controller for the Venture Fund of the University of Maryland Global Campus College, Sharon served as a trusted advisor to the executive and leadership teams, liaising with internal and external parties to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of governance, risk management and control processes.
Sharon is an innovative leader and change agent and uses an effective combination of creative problem solving and interpersonal skills to identify and work collaboratively to resolve critical issues, as well as develop strategic partnerships to create value and deliver results. She has a passion for building and leading cross-functional teams and facilitating professional staff through training, coaching and mentoring. Sharon is equally passionate about giving back to her community, having served Prince George’s County as a substitute teacher and instructor in the Adult Education department of Prince Georges Community College, as well as providing career coaching for a Baltimore City Back to Work program.
Although a native of Chicago, Sharon matriculated through the District of Columbia Public School system and received a Bachelor of Accountancy from George Washington University. She has served in several professional membership organizations, including roles as Board Chair of the DC Chapter Institute of Internal Auditors, and Chair of the Professional Development Committee for the Maryland Chapter International Coach Federation. Sharon is a Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Information Systems Auditor and holds a Certification in Risk Management Assurance. In her spare time, Sharon enjoys shopping, traveling, and finding new and exotic places to eat.