Chambers on Internal Audit

September 15, 2014

Are Internal Audit Clients Always Right?

When customers are unhappy, most organizations will scramble to fix the situation. As the old adage goes, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, even when a […]
September 8, 2014

When the Whistle Is Blown, All Lines of Defense Have Failed

When federal whistleblowers rules were enacted, it was understood that even internal auditors could be eligible under certain conditions. But the first payout ever – $300,000 […]
September 2, 2014

It’s Hard to Be a Watchdog When Your View Is Obstructed

I was fortunate during my tenure as inspector general of the Tennessee Valley Authority and deputy inspector general of the U.S. Postal Service to have boards […]
August 25, 2014

CAE to Audit Committee: I Know You Are Behind Me, but Will You Be With Me?

Ask almost any CAE if he or​ she has the full support of the audit committee, and the answer will usually be “yes.” But, in reality, […]
August 18, 2014

From Good to Great: Strategic Planning Can Define an Internal Audit Function

When you compare internal audit functions, you can expect to find quite a few differences. High-performing departments stand apart in their mindset and how they approach […]
August 12, 2014

IPPF Relook: Changing Times Require a Fresh Perspective

Sooner or later, every internal auditor will ask why something is being done a certain way, only to be met with a look of surprise and […]
August 6, 2014

Tact and the Art of Bringing About Positive Change

“Thank you for meeting with us today. As you know, we have already found quite a few things wrong in your department.” One of the first […]
July 31, 2014

Auditing at the Speed of Risk!

Well into the 21st century, businesses worldwide are focusing more and more on managing risks, be they internal or external, financial, operational, strategic, involve technology or regulations, […]
July 29, 2014

Auditing the Organizational Culture: A New Frontier for Internal Audit

When I think about how the role of internal auditing is evolving, I am struck by the diversity of issues we address. Internal auditors deal with […]
July 21, 2014

Creating Awareness With Internal Audit’s Stakeholders: Sometimes It Takes “Marketing”

At The IIA’s recent International Conference in London, I heard a colleague mention that he absolutely hated explaining internal auditing to non-auditors. “When I have to […]