"Since opening our doors in January of 2003, the PCAOB has been focused on protecting investors who rely on the audits of U.S. public companies. I'm extremely proud of the organization that we built from scratch, and am honored to have been part of it," said Gillan.

Gillan spearheaded the board's small business program, called Forum on Auditing in the Small Business Environment. Board members and key staff travel around the country to meet representatives from smaller auditing firms and directors and executives from smaller public companies. 

"The PCAOB's programs and culture have been strongly influenced by Kayla’s clear-headed approach and innate sense of fairness," said PCAOB Chairman Mark Olson. "Kayla has been invaluable in sensitizing the board to investor issues as they relate to our work.  She also designed and led our outreach to smaller issuers and auditors.  She leaves a strong legacy here and will be greatly missed."