Professional training course
Internal Audit: From Planning to Execution
This course aims to enable participants to develop the skills to meticulously plan, execute, and document audits, utiliz... The outline covers Foundations of Internal Audit, Audit Methodologies and Techniques, Conducting...
Introduction
Course overview
Why Attend
This course aims to enable participants to develop the skills to meticulously plan, execute, and document audits, utilizing advanced methodologies and data analytics for efficient, accurate results. It will also allow them to confidently navigate complex scenarios such as fraud detection, IT audits, and cybersecurity assessments, contributing actionable insights for continuous organizational improvement.
Course Methodology
The course uses interactive techniques, such as brief presentations and case studies by the consultant and participants. The course also features several group exercises and simulations to help participants consolidate their learning experience.
Examples from various industries and sectors will be used to showcase practical applications.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Develop the ability to formulate precise audit objectives, design a robust audit plan, and allocate resources effectively to ensure comprehensive institutional coverage
- Apply various audit methodologies, risk assessment techniques, and data analytics applications, enabling the selection and application of appropriate methods for different audit scenarios
- Demonstrate their skills in conducting effective interviews, performing control tests, and analyzing audit evidence to identify control weaknesses and deviations, ensuring a thorough and well-documented audit process
- Perform advanced audits, including fraud detection and prevention, IT audits, and cybersecurity assessments, while staying current with industry trends, enabling them to address emerging challenges in GRC
- Establish vigorous quality assurance practices and drive continuous improvement within the organization
Target Audience
This course has been designed for audit practitioners, governance professionals, financial services regulators, finance managers, functional managers, senior managers, board members, and all individuals interested in the internal control environment within their organizations.
Target Competencies
- Understanding audit objectives
- Selection of proper audit methodologies
- Execution of effective investigative fieldwork
- Commitment to advanced audit trends
- Dedication to continuous improvement
What you will achieve
Learning objectives
- Develop the ability to formulate precise audit objectives, design a robust audit plan, and allocate resources effectively to ensure comprehensive institutional coverage
- Apply various audit methodologies, risk assessment techniques, and data analytics applications, enabling the selection and application of appropriate methods for different audit scenarios
- Demonstrate their skills in conducting effective interviews, performing control tests, and analyzing audit evidence to identify control weaknesses and deviations, ensuring a thorough and well-documented audit process
- Perform advanced audits, including fraud detection and prevention, IT audits, and cybersecurity assessments, while staying current with industry trends, enabling them to address emerging challenges in GRC
- Establish vigorous quality assurance practices and drive continuous improvement within the organization
Who should attend
Target audience
- This course has been designed for audit practitioners, governance professionals, financial services regulators, finance managers, functional managers, senior managers, board members, and all individuals interested in the internal control environment within their organizations.
- Target Competencies
- Understanding audit objectives
- Selection of proper audit methodologies
- Execution of effective investigative fieldwork
- Commitment to advanced audit trends
- Dedication to continuous improvement
Methodology
Learning approach
- The course uses interactive techniques, such as brief presentations and case studies by the consultant and participants. The course also features several group exercises and simulations to help participants consolidate their learning experience.
- Examples from various industries and sectors will be used to showcase practical applications.
Course content
Course outline and key learning areas
Module 1
Foundations of Internal Audit
- Introduction to Internal Audit
- Understanding the role and importance of internal audit in Governance, Risk, and Compliance
- Differentiating between internal and external audits
- Key principles and standards for internal auditing
- Planning the Audit
- Defining audit objectives, scope, and criteria
- Identifying risks and assessing their significance
- Building an effective audit plan and timeline
Module 2
Audit Methodologies and Techniques
- Audit Methodologies and approaches
- Overview of different audit methodologies (e.g., risk-based, control-based)
- Selecting the appropriate methodology for different audit scenarios
- Integrating technology and data analytics into the audit process
- Data collection and evidence
- Techniques for collecting relevant and reliable audit evidence
- Sampling strategies and statistical methods in internal audit
- Documenting findings and maintaining audit trails
- Execution and Fieldwork
Module 3
Conducting fieldwork
- Interviewing techniques for gathering information
- Performing walkthroughs and testing controls
- Addressing challenges and obstacles during fieldwork
- Communication and reporting
- Art of effective communication with auditees
- Structuring audit reports for maximum impact
- Presenting findings and recommendations to stakeholders
Module 4
Advanced Topics in Internal Audit
- Fraud detection and investigation
- Recognizing red flags and signs of fraud
- Conducting fraud risk assessments
- Investigative techniques and legal considerations
- IT audits and cybersecurity
- Auditing IT systems, networks, and applications
- Evaluating cybersecurity controls and vulnerabilities
- Ensuring compliance with data protection regulations
Module 5
Audit Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement
- Quality assurance in internal audit
- Establishing an effective internal audit quality assurance program
- Peer reviews, self-assessment, and external assessments
- Incorporating feedback and enhancing audit processes
- Continuous improvement and future trends
- Leveraging audit findings for organizational improvement
- Keeping up with evolving GRC regulations and standards
- Embracing technology trends in internal audit
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What does Internal Audit: From Planning to Execution cover?
This course covers Accounting and Finance through a structured five-day outline focused on practical application, discussion, and implementation planning.
When is the next available session?
The next scheduled session starts on 11 - 15 May 2026, with additional classroom dates and mirrored Online / Live options listed in the course schedules section.
Who should attend this course?
This course has been designed for audit practitioners, governance professionals, financial services regulators, finance managers, functional managers, senior managers, board members, and all individuals interested in the internal control environment within their organizations., Target Competencies, Understanding audit objectives
How can I register for a session?
Use any Register button next to the available course dates to open the participant registration page and submit your booking request for the selected session.
Is this course available online as well as classroom-based?
Yes. The course detail page includes both classroom sessions and Online / Live sessions, with online options aligned to the same course dates for easier planning.
Where are classroom sessions delivered?
Current classroom venues include Istanbul, Vienna, Barcelona, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome.
Still Have Questions?
Contact the academy team for course details, delivery options, and delegate guidance.
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