Training Course: Internal Auditing: From Planning to Execution – Manchester (UK), 21–25 Dec 2026

Introduction

Internal auditing is an essential function for ensuring the efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity of an organization’s operations. By enhancing compliance, risk management, and internal controls, internal audit services are vital for any organization striving for operational excellence. This course offers a comprehensive approach to the internal auditing process, starting from strategic planning through execution and reporting. It incorporates the latest internal audit techniques, including data analytics, AI, and risk assessments to provide you with the tools to enhance your internal audit function. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this course will equip you with the knowledge needed to perform successful audits and apply global frameworks and standards, such as IIA, COSO, and ISO 31000.

Course Objectives

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

• Understand internal audit frameworks and standards, including IIA, COSO, and ISO 31000.
• Develop a risk-based internal audit plan aligned with the organization's strategic objectives.
• Apply data analytics and automation to streamline auditing procedures and improve audit quality.
• Conduct effective fieldwork, including interviews, evidence gathering, and testing controls.
• Produce clear, concise, and actionable audit reports that contain implementable recommendations.
• Enhance communication skills for effective interaction with stakeholders during the audit process.
• Understand internal audit risk assessment and how to evaluate and mitigate risks within an organization.

Course Outlines

Day 1: Fundamentals of Internal Auditing and Planning

• Defining the role of internal auditing in corporate governance.
• Key internal audit frameworks and international audit standards (IIA, COSO, ISO 31000).
• Developing a risk-based internal audit plan and understanding audit priorities.
• Setting clear audit objectives and planning audit tasks effectively.

Day 2: Risk Assessment and Audit Methodology

• Conducting internal audit risk assessments using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Testing internal controls versus baseline testing techniques.
• Using data analytics to identify risks and enhance audit procedures.
• Identifying fraud risks and fraud detection techniques in the internal auditing process.
• Evaluating internal control systems through audits.

Day 3: Conducting the Audit – Fieldwork and Evidence Gathering

• Effective audit techniques: interviews, observations, and document reviews.
• Sampling strategies and test methodologies in internal auditing.
• Leveraging automation in auditing processes to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Root cause analysis of audit findings to provide actionable insights.
• Ensuring compliance with professional standards and maintaining audit quality.

Day 4: Audit Reporting and Communication

• Structuring effective internal audit reports with clear, concise findings.
• Communicating audit results to management and oversight committees.
• Managing stakeholder relationships and resolving conflicts during the audit process.
• Case studies: Best practices in audit reporting and communication.

Day 5: Modern Trends and Practical Case Studies

• The future of internal auditing: Agile auditing and continuous auditing.
• The role of technology in internal auditing, including Robotic Process Automation (RPA).
• Ethical challenges and considerations in internal auditing and professional conduct.

Why Attend This Course: Wins & Losses!

• Skill Enhancement: By attending this internal audit training, you will enhance your skills in risk-based auditing, data analysis, and automation, ensuring you stay ahead with the latest global standards and frameworks.
• Practical Insights: Through real-world case studies and best practices, you will gain practical insights into the internal audit process, allowing you to immediately apply these insights to your daily tasks.
• Networking Opportunities: Interact with industry experts, auditors, and peers to build valuable relationships that can support your career growth and provide insights into the latest trends in internal auditing.
• Strategic Advantage: Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to become a critical player in ensuring compliance, governance, and risk management within your organization.

Conclusion

This course provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge in internal auditing, empowering you to navigate the complex internal audit process with confidence. Whether you're looking to develop a risk-based internal audit plan, understand internal audit definitions, or improve internal audit services in your organization, this course covers everything you need to excel. From data analytics to internal audit risk analysis, you will gain essential skills for performing audits and applying global standards and frameworks in your work.

If you aim to strengthen your professional expertise and develop your career in internal auditing, this course will offer you the perfect foundation for excellence and success in this critical field.