INSTITUTE OF INTERNAL AUDITORS SOUTH AFRICA THE
Internal Audit in Johannesburg

Internal Audit is a multidimensional discipline that spans over all sectors that has evolved to a key position within organisations. As advisors to management, Internal Auditors act as the right hand of the Board of Directors through the Audit Committee by giving assurance on the organisations ability to meet its objectives, its governance, risks and controls. Its multidimensional nature mandates a much broader scope in the organisation than that of External Audit. The nature of the Internal Auditor’s daily work creates the opportunity to acquire a significant amount of depth and breadth of understanding of the organisation’s strategy and operations. Its multidimensional nature therefore inevitably shapes internal auditors into ideal candidates for executive positions. The Internal Auditor’s work includes assessing the tone and risk management culture of the organisation as well as evaluating and reporting on the effectiveness and efficiency of the implementation of management policies. Internal Auditors identify key activities and relevant risk factors and assess their significance. Changing trends and business/economic conditions impact the way the internal auditor assesses risk. The techniques of internal auditing have changed from a reactive and control based form to a more proactive and risk based approach. This enables the internal auditor to anticipate possible future concerns and opportunities as well as identifying current issues. Internal Auditors work closely with line managers to review operations then report their findings. The internal auditor must be well versed in the strategic objectives of the organisation, so that they have a clear understanding of how the operations of any given part of the organisation fit into the bigger picture. Compliance review ensures that the organisation is adhering to rules, regulations, laws, codes of practice, guidelines and principles as they apply individually and collectively to all parts of their organisation. Have you thought about taking your involvement with The IIA to a new level? The Institute provides many opportunities for internal auditors to participate beyond the membership level. Your leadership and direction can contribute to the strategic direction of the association as well as the ongoing development of new products, services and guidance for the profession. Serving as an IIA leader can introduce you to a world of opportunities. Guide the next generation of auditors through the Internal Auditing Education Partnership Program (IAEP). You can help to promote the profession from within. Become an author for the Internal Audit Foundation! Almost anywhere in the world, you can find fellow internal auditors who are engaged in their local Institutes.