Introduction:

This comprehensive conference is designed to provide participants with a deep understanding of internal audit practices, methodologies, and tools. It empowers them to excel in their audit roles by covering a wide range of internal audit functions, from fundamentals to advanced strategies, focusing on governance, risk management, compliance, and value-driven auditing.

Conference Objectives:

By the end of this conference, participants will be able to:

Master the fundamentals and advanced practices of internal auditing.
Conduct risk-based audits aligned with organizational goals.
Apply modern tools and techniques for effective internal auditing.
Ensure compliance and governance through robust audit processes.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and risk management.

Target Audience:

Internal Auditors.
Audit Managers and Supervisors.
Risk and Compliance Officers.
Governance Professionals.
Finance and Operational Auditors.

Conference Outline:

Unit 1:

Foundations of Internal Auditing:

Introduction to internal auditing principles.
Understanding the role of internal auditing in governance.
Key audit objectives: assurance, compliance, and consulting.
The International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.
Building the internal audit function: structure and resources.

Unit 2:

Risk-Based Auditing:

Fundamentals of risk management and its relationship with auditing.
Techniques of Conducting a risk assessment to identify high-risk areas.
Developing a risk-based audit plan.
Techniques for prioritizing audit engagements based on risk.
Aligning risk-based audits with organizational strategies.

Unit 3:

Audit Planning and Execution:

The audit lifecycle: from planning to reporting.
Methods of Preparing effective audit programs and checklists.
Data gathering and sampling techniques.
Importance of Conducting fieldwork: interviews, observations, and document reviews.
Ensuring compliance with audit standards throughout the process.

Unit 4:

Internal Control Evaluation:

Defining internal controls and their importance in audits.
Evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of controls.
Identifying control weaknesses and recommending improvements.
Using frameworks such as COSO for internal control evaluation.
Integrating control assessments into audit reports.

Unit 5:

Leveraging Technology in Auditing:

Introduction to audit management software and tools.
Utilizing data analytics to enhance audit efficiency.
Continuous auditing techniques and automated controls testing.
Cybersecurity audits: evaluating IT controls and risks.
Case study: Using technology to transform internal auditing.

Unit 6:

Audit Reporting and Communication:

Writing clear, concise, and actionable audit reports.
Communicating audit findings to stakeholders and management.
Presenting recommendations for improvement and risk mitigation.
Using audit reports to drive organizational change.
Techniques for effective follow-up and audit closure.

Unit 7:

Compliance Audits and Regulatory Requirements:

Understanding the regulatory landscape and its impact on internal audits.
Conducting compliance audits for industry-specific regulations.
Ensuring audit activities align with corporate governance standards.
Auditing financial statements and ensuring legal compliance.
Supporting regulatory compliance through continuous monitoring.

Unit 8:

Performance and Operational Audits:

Differentiating between financial, compliance, and operational audits.
Conducting operational audits to improve efficiency and performance.
Identifying performance gaps and recommending cost-saving measures.
Using KPIs to measure operational effectiveness.
Auditing supply chains, procurement, and other operational areas.

Unit 9:

Fraud Detection and Prevention in Audits:

The internal auditor’s role in fraud prevention and detection.
Identifying red flags and indicators of fraud.
Investigating fraud risks during audits.
Importance of Coordinating with forensic audit teams for in-depth investigations.
Implementing controls to reduce the risk of fraud.

Unit 10:

Continuous Improvement and Professional Development:

Promoting a culture of continuous improvement within the audit function.
Building competencies and skills for internal auditors.
Fostering innovation in audit methodologies and techniques.
Staying updated on global trends and emerging risks in auditing.
Developing a personal development plan for career growth in internal auditing.

Conference on The Internal Audit School