Mike Wetklow, CRO
Chief Risk Officer, Internal Revenue Service
Professional Overview
Mike Wetklow is an experienced financial management and risk mitigation professional serving as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). With a strong background in financial operations, internal controls, and strategic risk management, he brings a comprehensive understanding of the public sector and government finance landscape.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Risk Officer at the IRS, Mike is responsible for leading the organization's enterprise-wide risk management efforts. He oversees the development and implementation of robust risk assessment frameworks, ensuring the IRS proactively identifies, analyzes, and mitigates potential threats to operational efficiency, data security, and taxpayer trust. Under his leadership, the IRS has enhanced its risk management capabilities, contributing to improved agency performance and better-informed decision-making.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Mike served as the Deputy Chief Financial Officer and Division Director for Financial Management at the National Science Foundation (NSF), where he spearheaded initiatives to strengthen internal controls and optimize financial reporting processes. He has also held positions as a Branch Chief at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Director of the Internal Control Program Management Office at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, further expanding his expertise in government financial management and risk oversight.
Academic Background
Mike holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from George Mason University, where he also served as an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business, sharing his practical knowledge and industry insights with the next generation of finance and risk management professionals.
Areas of Expertise
- Enterprise Risk Management
- Financial Operations and Reporting
- Internal Controls and Compliance
- Government Financial Management
- Strategic Decision-Making
- Regulatory Oversight and Audit Readiness
Professional Impact
During his tenure at the IRS, Mike has played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization's risk management practices, contributing to improved operational efficiency, data security, and taxpayer trust. His leadership in developing comprehensive risk assessment frameworks and implementing proactive mitigation strategies has helped the IRS navigate complex regulatory environments and emerging threats more effectively.
Conclusion
With a proven track record of success in the public sector, Mike Wetklow continues to make a significant impact as the Chief Risk Officer at the Internal Revenue Service. His expertise in financial management, risk mitigation, and strategic decision-making positions him as a valuable asset in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the IRS's operational resilience and safeguard taxpayer interests.
