Independence and Objectivity of Internal Audit Team

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Re: Independence and objectivity of the internal audit team at Tech Net, Inc. As you requested, I have prepared this memo to outline the existing policy and procedures to ensure that the internal audit team is both independent and objective. Furthermore, I have also included a new policy that will be implemented in order to encourage independence and objectivity. The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) describes independence as “… the freedom from conditions that threaten the ability of the internal audit activity to carry out internal audit responsibilities in and unbiased manner.” IIA clarifies objectivity as “…and unbiased mental attitude that allows internal auditors to perform engagements in such a manner that they believe in their work product and that no quality compromises are made.” As you know, the environment at our company is very competitive between internal departments. The aggressive nature makes it hard for my team to perform our audits without the concern of prejudice. In order for my department to achieve independence and objectivity, my team needs to work in an environment that is free from the pressures of the competing departments. They need to be confident in the work they are doing and should not feel the pressure of outperforming another department. There may be a perception that if auditors are assigned from within the firm they may have cognitive biases or a pre-conceived prejudice fostered by the competitive nature of the company. The internal audit department does have policies in place to ensure independence and objectivity is achieved while performing audits. They are as follows: • The chief audit executive (CAE) is to report functionally to the board and administratively to the CEO. • Assignments are always prepared by the CAE with prevention of conflict of interest a consideration. • Performance of the internal audit
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