Training Course: Developing & Audit Plan – Vancouver (Canada), 5–9 Jul 2027

Introduction

In an ever-evolving business landscape, chief audit executives (CAE), internal audit managers, and audit leaders are pivotal in aligning audit functions with strategic organizational objectives. To succeed, they must not only excel in audit and assurance but also master leadership, stakeholder engagement, and influence.

This course equips participants with the skills to craft and execute an internal audit strategy, develop impactful audit plans, and strengthen stakeholder relationships. Attendees will gain insights into the principles of auditing and other assurance services, enhancing their ability to deliver value and ensure organizational resilience.

Course Objectives

• Understand the role and responsibilities of a chief audit executive and an internal audit manager in achieving strategic alignment.
• Learn how to develop an internal audit plan and effectively manage internal audit resources.
• Master the art of stakeholder relationship management to foster trust and collaboration.
• Explore the internal audit mission statement and its relevance to organizational success.
• Gain practical knowledge of audit plan purposes and techniques to create an audit plan aligned with organizational risks and priorities.
• Deliver insightful internal audit engagements that align with the principles of auditing and other assurance services.

Course Outlines

Day 1: Internal Audit Leadership

• Exploring the qualities of an effective internal audit lead.
• Leadership theories and their application in audit and assurance.
• The role of the chief audit executive in modern organizations.
• Addressing common challenges faced by internal audit leaders.
• Understanding the internal audit mission statement and its strategic implications.

Day 2: Effective Internal Audit Planning

• Determining risk maturity and aligning with strategic goals.
• Developing an internal audit plan that includes a risk-based assurance universe.
• Coordination with other assurance providers: benefits and challenges.
• Agile methodologies in internal audit delivery.
• Best practices for how to develop an audit plan and align it with the organization’s objectives.

Day 3: Maximizing Internal Audit Resources

• Strategies for internal audit asset management.
• Managing dispersed and co-sourced teams efficiently.
• Evaluating in-house versus outsourced contractors.
• Addressing risks within the internal audit function and implementing risk management practices.
• Enhancing the audit engagement process for better outcomes.

Day 4: Stakeholder Relationship Management

• Conducting stakeholder analysis to improve perceptions of internal audit.
• Marketing the audit function and delivering impactful recommendations.
• Best practices for stakeholder relationship management in internal audit.
• Conflict resolution, negotiation, and persuasion techniques.
• Networking and effective communication strategies to strengthen relationships.

Day 5: Delivering Insight, Value, and Quality Assurance

• Understanding and delivering audit insights that drive impact.
• Adding value through assurance and consulting engagements.
• The quality assurance and improvement program for internal audits.
• Implementing internal and external assessments for continuous improvement.
• Leveraging advisory work to enhance organizational value while mitigating risks.

Why Attend this Course: Wins & Losses!

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of how to create an audit plan that delivers measurable outcomes.
• Build leadership and management skills to thrive as a chief audit executive or internal audit manager.
• Develop strategies to align the internal audit mission statement with organizational success.
• Enhance audit delivery with impactful insights and stakeholder collaboration.

Conclusion

This course is a must-attend for audit professionals seeking to master the principles of auditing and other assurance services, develop impactful internal audit plans, and lead their teams toward organizational excellence. By honing leadership skills and aligning audit practices with business strategies, participants will gain the tools to transform their audit functions and deliver meaningful results.

Enroll today to unlock the potential of internal audit leadership and create lasting value for your organization!