2015

If we learned anything from the global financial crises of 2008, it was this: When boards of directors fail in their oversight responsibility of risk management, the results can be disastrous.

Managing risks for an organization is a complex and often dynamic undertaking that requires strong coordination among the board, management, and the internal audit function. Identifying and mitigating risks through a sound risk-based internal audit process benefits all organizations, from mom-and-pop businesses to Fortune 500 corporations.

Failure to do so invites almost guaranteed problems at some level of the organization. It also can present a profound dilemma for the organization’s internal auditors who serve both management and the board.…

This time each year, many of us reflect upon our accomplishments and identify areas for self-improvement, whether it’s to eat better, exercise more, or simply cut out some bad habits. Great ambitions, but not always great results​. The same might​ be said for New Year’s resolutions around career success. Many of us set professional goals but struggle to fulfill them.

Don’t let past regrets or fear of failure hold you back. I believe it’s important to always set our sights high, but that doesn’t mean they cannot also be realistic and achievable. So, in keeping with my tradition of using my first blog of the year to suggest some New Year’s resolutions that can raise the bar for internal auditors and the profession in general, here are five for 2015 that can be achieved by any reasonably motivated internal auditor.…