Richard Chambers, CIA, QIAL, CCSA, CGAP, CRMA
President and Chief Executive Officer
The IIA
USA

Internal auditors globally are facing ever-challenging pressures, from risks and technologies that are emerging at warp speed to increasing stakeholder expectations and demands for greater agility. IIA President and CEO Richard F. Chambers examines key imperatives for today and the future with insight and perspective based on more than 40 years as a leader in the profession.

Topics will include:

• Assessing risks and disruptive threats
• Sourcing and developing the right talent
• Enhancing capacity and effectiveness
• Persevering in the face of adversity
  

Richard F. Chambers, CIA, QIAL, CGAP, CCSA, CRMA, is president and CEO of The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), the global professional association and standard-setting body for internal auditors. Chambers has more than four decades of internal audit and association management experience, mostly in leadership positions. Prior to taking the helm of The IIA in 2009, he was national practice leader in Internal Audit Advisory Services at PricewaterhouseCoopers; inspector general of the Tennessee Valley Authority; deputy inspector general of the U.S. Postal Service; and director of the U.S. Army Worldwide Internal Review Organization at the Pentagon. He currently serves on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) Board of Directors; the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC); and The IIA Board of Directors, as well as the Georgia State University School of Accountancy Advisory Council and the University of Alabama Culverhouse School of Accountancy’s Professional Advisory Board. Chambers also has served on the U.S. President’s Council on Integrity and Efficiency. Accounting Today has named him one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting and he has been named one of the most influential leaders in corporate governance by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD). In 2016, Chambers was honored by American City Business Journals’ Orlando Business Journal as a top CEO of the Year. Chambers has authored two award-winning books: Trusted Advisors: Key Attributes of Outstanding Internal Auditors, which was released in early 2017; and Lessons Learned on the Audit Trail, which is currently available in five languages.

Rolf Spjelkavik
Vice President, Head of Group Internal Audit
Sandvik AB
SWEDEN

Martin Wiedemann, CIA
Partner, IA Domain Leader EMEIA
EY
​GERMANY

Businesses must deal with challenges caused by the digital revolution; the move to digital processes and business models, as well as complex regulatory oversight and disruptive technologies, promote a demand for new skills and reduction in headcount. Internal audit must evaluate if the function is ready to digitize itself and lead the “digital journey” for the organization, operating as a change agent, anticipative monitor, and business counselor.

In this session, participants will:

• Understand and challenge the vision of how the role of internal audit will emerge through digitization.
  
• Comprehend and discuss the roadmap to a fully digitalised internal audit function.
  
• Identify the (significant) changes in an auditor’s skill set required by digitization.
  
• Discover critical digital/emerging risks that internal audit has to address.
  
• Discuss the key elements for positioning internal audit as more relevant to key stakeholders.
  

Martin Wiedemann has over 25 years of experience in auditing, consulting, and advisory of local and international companies. His expertise includes implementing, leading, and executing internal audit functions as well as internal control systems and risk management. Since joining EY in 1999, Wiedemann has worked in the firm’s Basel, London, Doha, Moscow, and Stuttgart offices. As partner in EY’s advisory practice, he focuses on internal audit, internal controls, and enterprise risk management for more than 10 internal audit outsourcing and partnering clients in various sectors (automotive, power, utilities). He also serves as responsible partner for quality reviews and benchmarks for German DAX-listed companies.

Additional Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Thomas Sanglier, CIA, CRMA, CPA
Senior Director, Internal Audit

Xing Quan, CIA, CRMA
Senior Manager, Internal Audit

Raytheon Company
USA

New and emerging technologies are revolutionizing the way work gets done. This will require internal auditors to rapidly transform what we audit, how we audit, and the skills we need. Internal audit leaders must be able to sort through multiple digital initiatives, identify accelerating innovation, and reshape internal audit. This session will share one department's lessons learned and ongoing journey in this endeavor.

In this session, participants will:

• ​Understand the impact that robotics and automation will have on the future workplace and the internal audit profession.
• Learn how to equip themselves and their teams with the skills to audit these technologies as they are implemented by their internal audit customers.
• Share potential opportunities to implement these same tools to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of internal audits.

Thomas Sanglier is responsible for all internal audit risk assessments and the execution of projects. He joined Raytheon in 2010 from EY, where he was a partner in its advisory services practice. Sanglier is a frequent speaker at industry conferences on topics such as governance, risk assessment, anti-fraud and corruption, internal control, and audit leadership. He serves The IIA on a global level as a member of the Guidance Development Committee and has been published in Internal Auditor magazine.

Xing Quan is a Six Sigma Expert in training and senior manager of corporate internal audit for a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government, and cybersecurity solutions. Xing joined Raytheon Corporate Internal Audit in July 2013. She has more than 18 years of experience in internal audit including enterprise risk management, fraud risk assessment, anti-corruption and compliance audits, control optimization, and operational improvements. Prior to joining Raytheon, Xing was a senior manager for the Ernst & Young LLP Advisory Services.​

Greg Grocholski, CIA
Vice President, Chief Audit Executive
Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC)
SAUDI ARABIA

Mike Gowell
General Manager
Senior Vice President
TeamMate/Wolters Kluwer
USA

Combined assurance is a fairly recent internal audit term which generally means integrating or aligning the various assurance activities in an organization for a more comprehensive or holistic approach to improving the effectiveness of its governance, risk, and control activities. The combined assurance model gained significance when it was noted in the King Code of Governance for South Africa 2009. In the subsequent King IV Report in 2016, combined assurance was given greater prominence as it was recommended that boards utilize this model to enhance the effectiveness of the assurance activities across their organizations.

In 2015, the IIA’s CBOK Global Internal Audit Survey included questions on combined assurance and published a report, “Combined Assurance: One Language, One Voice, One View” which noted, “…knowledge and implementation of the combined assurance concept is not yet widespread. Specific guidance on how best to implement combined assurance is still limited.” The CBOK study, which was very broad in its coverage, did not go into further detail on reasons behind the lack of knowledge and implementation.

Our 2017 survey was conducted to gain a greater understanding and establish a baseline of the state of combined assurance. This included how familiar respondents were with the concept, whether or not they have implemented it, and specific reasons for or against the concept. We will also discuss in-depth follow-up interviews with certain adoptees of the concept.

In this session participants will: 

• Examine the concept of combined assurance in more detail to understand its applicability to their processes.
• Benchmark themselves and their practices against the results of our 2017 practitioner survey.
• Identify opportunities to apply the concept of combined assurance within their own organizations
  

Greg Grocholski is responsible for leading and managing the internal audit department on a global level, to ensure the implementation of internal audit best practices worldwide, as well as to coach the company’s internal audit employees to maximize their contributions to achieving the company’s objectives. Grocholski is internationally respected in the audit field and is affiliated to ISACA, for which he has served in various leadership roles. Prior to SABIC, Grocholski attained an impressive track record in the global chemicals industry with more than 30 years of service at The Dow Chemical Company. He achieved numerous promotions in the audit and finance functions, most recently holding the posts of CAE and global director of business finance.

Michael Gowell leads all aspects of the global TeamMate operations and is responsible for the overall product strategy. With nearly 30 years of audit, audit methodology, and audit management software experience, he is a foremost expert on audit technology and audit management systems. As project director at PwC, Gowell founded TeamMate in 1993, which eventually became part of the Wolters Kluwer family. He has personally implemented TeamMate at over 300 corporations and is a frequent keynote speaker at national and international industry conferences.​​

Oliver Dieterle, CIA, CGAP, CRMA
Chief Audit Executive
Bundesagentur fuer Arbeit
GERMANY

A healthy corporate culture is one of the key factors for a healthy organization. In this session we will explore the opposite and take a deeper look at Volkswagen's Dieselgate. During our time we will use a game theoretical approach to find elements in a system where a strong but unhealthy corporate culture can silence the whistleblower.

In this session, participants will:

• Distinguish between the personal and corporate factors of corporate culture.
• Understand how an improved corporate culture can lead to unethical behavior.
• Learn to use game theory for their own audit work.​

Since 1995, Oliver Dieterle has been working at the headquarters of the Federal Employment Agency of Germany in Nuremberg. Since 2003, he has been the chief audit executive of Bundesagentur fuer Arbeit. He is a member of the Internal Audit Standards Board of The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA) and a former board member of The IIA.​

Domenic Antonucci, CFIRM, CRISC, PMI-RMP, PMP
Group Risk Officer
Abdul Latif Jameel Group
SAUDIA ARABIA

Stig Jarle Sunde, CIA, CGAP, CISA, CRISC, IRM Cert.
Senior Internal Auditor (ICT)
Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC)
UAE​

It is said that cyber risk management is not just about IT, but is an enterprise-wide risk. But what does this mean? What is the role of the non-IT functions in cybersecurity for the organization? How can internal audit assess the effectiveness of enterprise-wide cyber risk management using a cyber risk maturity model?

In this session participants will:

• Learn why cyber falls under enterprise risk and control, not just IT.
• Examine why McKinsey says up to 80% of risk and control activity does NOT fall under the CISO.
• Learn how the 80% of all risk and control activity falls to various enterprise functions under an ERM approach.
• Explore emerging roles for the Digital Risk Officer.
• Identify IA assurance responsibilities as one of those functions.
• Explore the latest views from the 25 top global subject matter experts for each functional perspective, e.g. ABA for the legal function's role, McKinsey for strategic cyber reporting.​​

Domenic Antonucci is a risk management maturity expert and the first published author to two topics, being: The Cyber Risk Handbook: Creating and Measuring Cybersecurity Capabilities (Wiley NY, 2017) and Risk Maturity Models: How to Assess Risk Management Effectiveness (Kogan Page London, 2016), both available on Amazon. He currently serves on the Group CRO & Chair Cyber Risk Advisory Committee, Abdul Latif Jameel (ALJ) in Saudi Arabia. Formerly with Marsh Risk Consulting, he alternates between CRO and strategic risk consulting roles in UK, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia-Pacific.

Stig Jarle Sunde is an experienced internal and information and communication technology (ICT) auditor with more than 20 years of experience in the fields of risk management, governance, and audit/assurance in both the private and public sector. He contributed to the “The Cyber Risk Handbook: Creating and Measuring Cybersecurity Capabilities” (Wiley, New York, 2017). Following tenures at PwC, the Office of the Auditor General of Norway, the European Court of Auditors (Luxembourg), and KPMG, Sunde is currently working with Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation on one of the largest nuclear programs globally, with focus on ICT as well as information and cyber security.​

Farah Alruwaily
Internal Compliance Manager
Capital Market Authority (CMA)
SAUDI ARABIA​

Session Abstract Coming Soon​

Farah Alruwaily is well-versed in accounting, risk assessment, risk management, governance, internal audit, International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) Standards, internal controls, COSO, compliance, leadership, and project management. She currently serves as internal compliance manager at the Capital Market Authority and as a member of the training committee of The IIA’s Saudi chapter. Alruwaily has conducted several internal audit-related workshops and presentations.​

Naif Alotaibi, CISM, CISSP
Security Operations Center Manager
Saudi Aramco EXPEC Computer Center
SAUDI ARABIA​

Session Abstract Coming Soon​

Naif Al-Otaibi started his career with Saudi Aramco in 2008 as a security analyst responsible for technical support and operations of identity management solutions, along with conducting vulnerability management and risk assessments, and leading multiple large projects to enhance the organization's cybersecurity posture. Before assuming leadership of the SOC, Al-Otaibi led a cyber incident response team for five years, in which he was responsible for 24/7 cybersecurity monitoring, incident response, cyber threats, intelligence analysis and fusion, proactive threat hunting, strategy development, developing capabilities to counter advanced cyber threats, and leading a program to transform the SOC operations into an intelligence-driven defense operating model.

Naohiro Mouri, CIA, CCSA
Executive Vice President, Chief Editor
AIG, New York
JAPAN

Session Abstract Coming Soon​

Naohiro Mouri oversees more than 50 auditors. Previously he was with MetLife Alico Japan where he served as statutory executive officer, senior vice president, and chief auditor. Naohiro also held chief auditor positions for JP Morgan/Asia Pacific Shinsei Bank, Morgan Stanley Japan, and Deutsche Bank Japan. He started his audit career at Arthur Andersen in the U.S. Mouri has served on the Board of IIA‒Japan and The IIA’s global board in several positions, as well as serving five years as the ACIIA’s first president. Naohiro is a frequent lecturer for universities and trade organisations and co-authored a book on auditing financial institutions.

His Excellency Adel Abdulaziz Abdullah Al-Saraawi
Deputy ​President
State Audit Bureau of Kuwait
KUWAIT​

In this session, participants will:

• Learn about the relationship between state audit bureaus and internal audit in the government.
  
• Gain insights into future challenges that will be faced by internal auditors in the government.
  
• Explore innovation in internal audit in the government.​
  

Daniel Lebel, CIA, CCSA, CFSA, CGAP, CRMA
Chief Audit Executive
University of Quebec in Montreal and President, CIA International Inc.
CANADA

This course gives candidates a high level introduction and overview of the topics covered with Part 3 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce your CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA’s CIA Learning System Part 3 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.

Daniel Lebel has more than 20 years' experience in internal audit and risk management, with expertise in several areas such as manufacturing, transportation, banking, and pharmaceutical. In addition to his work as CAE at the University of Quebec, Lebel has been involved as a lecturer, teacher, coach, and mentor, and as a CIA instructor in America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.​

Angela Witzany, CIA, QIAL, CRMA
Head of Internal Audit
Sparkassen Versicherung, AG Vienna Insurance Group
AUSTRIA

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Dan Zitting, CISA, CPA
Chief Product Officer
ACL Services Ltd
CANADA

Is your entire audit plan focused on what already happened in the past? Forward-thinking audit teams use digital analysis techniques to predictively assess risk levels, then get ahead to control and manage future risks. Organizations have implemented immediately actionable methodologies and models to enable internal audit to directly support the CEO in navigating the risk landscape of future years.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore the principles of risk prediction and how to systematically assess future risk levels.
  
• Learn about skills, models, and technologies used to quantify and communicate risk predictions.
  
• Evaluate example risk prediction dashboards and reports to consider what might resonate with your organization's management and board.
  
• Self-assess your current capabilities and gaps to develop an impactful risk prediction program.
  

Dan Zitting is responsible for market strategy, product management, product design, user experience, content solutions, strategic relationships, marketing, and sales development for ACL and its industry-leading SaaS products, used by 15,000 customers in 140+ countries. He is dedicated to advancing cloud and Big Data technologies that help corporations and governments perform better while operating with integrity. Zitting has been quoted and covered in The Wall Street Journal, CFO Magazine, Bloomberg, Reuters, The Street, and CNBC. He has been recognized as an Emerging Leader by The IIA and as a 40 Under 40 honoree by CPA Practice Advisor, in addition to earning BCTIA Team of the Year and GRC 20/20 Technology Innovation awards.​

Syed Imran Zia, CIA
Chief Internal Auditor, (Chief Audit Executive)
Gulf Drilling International
​QATAR

How have recent events in the corporate environment impacted the current and future role of internal audit? Rapidly accelerating pressures are fueling the need for internal audit to transform its focus from financial controls to shareholder value. Globally, the profession is in need of paradigm realignment to help key stakeholders meet soaring risk governance expectations. To survive and thrive, internal audit needs a much higher tolerance and preparedness for uncertainty.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn to develop future-focused internal auditing that emphasizes where risk is going to be, rather than where it has been.
  
• Discover how to deliver true value creation for key stakeholders.
  
• Explore how internal audit can accelerate its evolution from where it is to where it should be.
  
• Determine how internal audit professionals should respond to the dynamic business environment and re-think ways of aligning with the change.
  
• Understand how improving their business acumen and skills can help them address critical risks facing their companies.​
  

Syed Imran Zia has decades of internal audit experience and a reputation as a transformational leader committed to furthering standards of excellence. While working for multinationals, Big Four firms, and national and international corporations, he set up internal audit functions for various organizations in the Middle East.  Zia serves as Chairman of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA, U.K.) Members Advisory Committee in Qatar, President of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE, U.S.) Doha Chapter, and Advisory Board Member for Excelledia Qatar’s Internal Audit Competency Benchmarking Project. He has been invited to speak at professional conferences and seminars worldwide. Zia’s accolades include an “Internal Audit Excellence Award” from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). He presently serves as chief internal auditor for an oil and gas company.

Manoj Agarwal, CIA, CRMA, CA, CISA
Head of Internal Audit
Metro Shoes Limited
​INDIA

Today, most organizations are outsourcing critical business operations to third parties. While internal business activities present a level of risk, it is third party relationships that make overall risk management challenging, especially as regulations become increasingly broad and complex. For this reason, organizations need to define a governance framework surrounding third-party relationships as part of their risk management plan.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to assess risks emerging out of outsourced activity.
• Learn how to define governance surrounding contract governance.
• Determine how to protect the organization's interests through contract governance and audit.

Manoj Agarwal is the chief internal auditor and risk manager of an expanding retail chain, where he has improved the internal audit department by aligning it more closely with professional standards and management expectations. Agarwal has also improved business processes by raising control awareness at the lowest levels, aligning the approval matrix to speed up decision-making, identifying fraud and unethical practices, and improving information governance and security. Having implemented a risk management policy and established the enterprise risk reporting framework, Agarwal apprises the board of risk level on a quarterly basis and provides risk mitigation strategies. ​

Felice Isnardi
Deputy Attorney General, (Ret.)
Court of Milan
​ITALY

The issue of criminal prevention is one that concerns all organizations. However, with a system of proper management, like those that consist in corporate governance rules, along with the integration of the compliance function into an organisation structure can help prevent an array of crimes.

In this session, participants will:

• Review real-world, corporate governance cases, including anti-bribery and anti-corruption.
• Learn how to identify loops and gaps in internal control system.
• Explore the Italian law n.231 of 2001 (Cornerstone of regulation of internal control system).
  

Felice Isnardi is director of scientific committee of professional network at Orange Table. Prior, Isnardi served as judge, general inspector in charge of audits of judicial courts of Italian Republic, and deputy general attorney of the Court of Appeal of Milano, where he retired in November 2017.

​During his time as deputy general attorney, Isnardi carried out investigations on a variety of economic crimes regarding banks and insurance companies, such as false accounting, frauds, bankruptcies, market abuses, and obstacles to supervisory bodies. He prosecuted organized crime and investigated its connections with economics and politics. Isnardi cooperated with U.S. Department of Justice in the case "Pizza Connection" and was a member of Italian Delegation in the U.N. World Conference on Transnational Organized Crime.

Thomas Heuckeroth
Vice President, Cyber Security & Infrastructure Management​

Gurpreet Kochar, CISM, CISSP, CRISC, CEH, CGEIT
Head of Technology and Process - Information Systems Audit​

Emirates Airline
UAE​

Research and high profile instances indicate that cyber-crime is becoming more frequent and complex. Digital assets are of strategic, operational, and financial importance and include: customers’ personal, financial, and transactional information; proprietary assets; supplier and partner contracts; and other confidential data. While the success of an organization creates a strategic asset, it also increases its profile and attractiveness to cyber criminals. Consequently, the organization’s cyber defence needs to be robust, and as the threat landscape changes, internal audit needs to play a pivotal role in providing assurance over readiness and response, collaborating with cybersecurity and communicating to senior executive management.

In this session participants will:

• ​Get an overview of the emerging cyber risk landscape.
• Discover what are the key risk areas.
• Learn the role of internal audit in cybersecurity.
• Find ways to strengthen collaboration between internal audit and cybersecurity.
• Build a holistic audit/assurance plan for cybersecurity.​

Gurpreet Kochar is an expert in information risk management whose 17+ years of IT experience has included consulting, planning, designing, implementing, monitoring, and managing information systems. Prior to joining Emirates Group as head of IT audit, he worked with HP and HCL in information security. His assignments involved policy/standard development, black/white box testing, web application security assessment, infrastructure/security architecture review, security auditing, and project management for high-profile companies. Kochar is a CISM, CISSP, CISA, CRISC, CEH, PCI-DSS ISA, and SAFe Certified Agilist. As past president of ISACA’s UAE Chapter, he brought in various IT-related initiatives within UAE.

Additional Speaker Bios Coming Soon

Scott Cohen, CIA, CCSA, CGAP, CRMA
Internal Auditor
NATO
LUXEMBOURG

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​​

Bhavesh C. Bhagat, CISA, CISM
Chairman
Confident Governance
USA

Internal audit is not ordinarily seen as a creative discipline. But as new technologies develop and transform how we do business, audit automation can not only increase efficiency, but can also render a competitive edge to your company. The key is in adopting the right changes and in fostering an open culture of innovation to not miss the opportunities that arise.

In this session, participants will:

• ​Learn how to adapt their internal audit function to make it a process driven by creative growth rather than negative compliance.
• Discover how to use the mindset of a martial artist to turn the adversity of internal audit process challenges into a competitive advantage.
• Benefit from lessons learned by a lifelong student of music to take the profession of internal audit to a whole new level.
• Understand the parallels between martial arts, music, and their profession for internal audit leadership.​

As a successful serial entrepreneur specializing in governance and audits, Bhavesh Bhagat blends international experiences of entrepreneurship, software innovation, and high growth strategies to enable agility and growth in alignment with the rapid pace of change in business. He is a Global Entrepreneurship Week 50 (GEW 50) award-winning inventor of "Governance as a Service" model and sits on the Board of Advisors to Mach37, one of the United States' only cyber-security incubators supported by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Bhagat is an international keynote speaker, published author, and a globally recognized visionary on risk philosophy, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurship.​

Abdelmonem Gabr, CIA, CFSA, CRMA
Senior Controller​
Financial Audit Dep​artment of Dubai Government
UAE

Due to the rapid evolution of risk management functions across the globe, the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) has updated its Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework in 2017. Methodologies and audit tools adopted by internal audit and other assurance functions over ERM will be affected by the major changes has taken place.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore changes in ERM as a result of the new COSO framework.
• Examine the effect of this new framework on the audit process.
• Identify challenges for internal auditors.
• Walk away with tips to deal with challenges.

Abdelmonem Gabr is a dynamic internal audit professional with more than 13 years of progressive responsibilities in internal auditing, fraud prevention and detection, risk management, compliance, and corporate governance. He is highly skilled in providing a disciplined approach to evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes and has a strong background in auditing leadership involving financial and operational audits. Before joining Financial Audit Department (Dubai), he worked with Ahli United Bank (Egypt), Protiviti (Bahrain), Blom Bank (Egypt), Ernst & Young, and International Islamic Bank (Qatar).​

Elie Safar, CIA, CPA
Co-Founder and Former President of IIA Lebanon, Internal Audit Coach and Advisor
Elie Safar Advisory Services
LEBANON

Investigating fraud is a necessary evil many find themselves in its midst. In this area, one remembers the poet's words, "Footsteps dictated on us. Those on whom footsteps are dictated, walk them.” The one who does not investigate fraud with burning fire is consumed by fire and ends! We try to illuminate the benefits of investigating fraud with burning fire.​​

In this session, participants will:​​

• ​​Hear that investigating fraud is a necessary evil we cannot escape.
• Understand the need to preserve anger while investigating fraud.
• Discuss how fire within increases sharpness in investigating fraud.
• Discover the personal costs we pay to conserve burning fire within.
• ​Learn ways to conduct fraud with burning fire.

Elie Safar is a sought-after speaker and advisor who assists organizations with restructuring, enhancing internal controls, and building their corporate governance framework. He started his career at the Comptroller’s Office of the American University of Beirut (AUB), before being promoted to assistant director of Internal Audit. Afterwards, Safar moved to the Lebanese American University (LAU) as director of internal audit and later served as group chief internal auditor, Sakr Power Group (SPG). In 2001, he founded and coordinated the IIA’s Endorsed Internal Auditing Program (now called Internal Auditing Education Partnership), a program through which students earn a diploma in internal auditing.​​

Daniel Lebel, CIA, CCSA, CFSA, CGAP, CRMA
Chief Audit Executive
University of Quebec in Montreal and President, CIA International Inc.
CANADA

This course gives candidates a high level introduction and overview of the topics covered with Part 3 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce your CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA’s CIA Learning System Part 3 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.

Daniel Lebel has more than 20 years' experience in internal audit and risk management, with expertise in several areas such as manufacturing, transportation, banking, and pharmaceutical. In addition to his work as CAE at the University of Quebec, Lebel has been involved as a lecturer, teacher, coach, and mentor, and as a CIA instructor in America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.​

Seth Davis, CIA, CFSA, CPA, CFA, CISA
Vice President, Internal Audit Services
RLI Corp
USA

Companies face a never-ending list of events which can disrupt operations, ranging from natural disasters to political upheaval to ransomware. Unfortunately, continuity efforts are often fragmented, out of date, and not optimized. Auditors can provide critical assurance to executive management and the board as well as impactful recommendations on effective governance for this critical business plan component.

In this session, participants will:

• ​Understand the importance of business continuity plan (BCP) governance and corporate plan coordination and communication in setting priorities with limited resources.
• Learn the importance of a business impact analysis and alternative procedures at the business unit level.
• Ensure alignment of business and IT.
• Explore third-party risks and considerations.​

Seth Davis oversees the development and execution of the audit plan providing assurance and advisory services, and coordinates efforts with Sarbanes-Oxley assessments and corporate business continuity as well as model risk governance. He has presented at a number of conferences including the IIA Financial Services Conference, IIA International Conference, IIAG Conference, MIS SuperStrategies Conferences, MIS AuditWorld Conferences, ISACA’s CACS Conference as well as IIA webinars. He has written a book entitled "Risky Business" and has also published articles in Fraud Magazine, ISACA Journal, FSA Times, and the Internal Auditor Magazine.

Moderator: Princy Jain, CIA, CCSA, CRMA, CA
Partner
PwC
USA

Phil Mennie
Director, Technology & Digital Risk
PwC
UAE

Robert Kella
Senior Vice President, Group Internal Audit
Emirates
UAE

Cary Haggard
Senior Vice President, Audit & Advisory
Mubadala
UAE​

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio's Coming Soon

Michael J. Fucilli, CIA, QIAL, CGAP, CRMA, CFE
Auditor General
Metropolitan Transportation Authority
USA

Automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics are changing the employment landscape around the world. Already, many companies are accelerating purchases of new robotics that are cheaper, more flexible, and safer than ever before. Is it not that far off that our analytical, compliance, and writing skills could be replaced? Successful modern internal auditing must be grounded on management support and acceptance and on imaginative service to management.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to become flexible, resilient, and able to learn new things as new technology takes hold.
  
• Explore ways auditors can sell their high-quality products to executive management and keep management’s interest.
  
• Improve their skills in planning, decision making, interfacing with stakeholders, bringing creativity to tasks, and managing and developing people.
  
• Discover how to drive productivity and economic growth for their organizations.​
  

Speaker Bio Coming Soon

Brendan LeBlanc, CIA, CPA
Partner
EY, Climate Change and Sustainability Services Practice, Massachusetts
USA

Rodney Irwin, Ph.D., CFE, CCEP
Managing Director, Redefining Value and Education
World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
SWITZERLAND

Sustainability risks are still business risks; issues such as climate change, human rights, or resource scarcity all have the ability to impact an organization’s profitability, success, or even survival. Following the September 2017 release of COSO’s ERM Framework: Integrating with Strategy and Performance, this session showcases a recent COSO-WBCSD report detailing practical guidance for companies looking to integrate ESG-related risks into risk management activities.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn to leverage existing ERM activities and ESG tools to better identify, assess, manage, and report on ESG-related risks.
  
• Understand how limited knowledge of ESG risks or opportunities negatively impacts successful management of ESG-related risks.
  
• Identify the difficulties encountered in quantifying ESG-related risks.
  
• Discuss ways to improve integration between ESG and those responsible for risk management or strategic activities.
  

Brendan LeBlanc has more than 22 years of experience providing financial and non-financial advisory, reporting, and assurance services to global public and private companies. He has led over 100 sustainability engagements, usually at the intersection of ESG and risk management, supply chain, corporate strategy, innovation, and/or finance and is a subject matter professional on corporate social responsibility metrics, reporting, and assurance. LeBlanc led the first full sustainability assurance engagement in the U.S. and has significant experience leading and coordinating sustainability risk assessments, human rights assessments, conflict minerals engagements, and sustainable sourcing reviews.

Rodney Irwin is responsible for a program of projects designed to advance the measurement and valuation of ESG impacts and dependencies on business. As the link between WBCSD members and standard/regulation setters, he leads projects in enterprise risk management, assurance, materiality, and integrated and mandatory reporting. Irwin is also the course director of WBCSD’s leadership program and manages the relationship with WBCSD’s education partners. He serves on the Council of the IIRC, as a board member of the Climate Disclosure Standards Board, as a member of the sustainability council of numerous global businesses, and in teaching roles for several universities.​

Hans Nieuwlands, CIA, C​CSA, CGAP
Chief Executive
IIA–Netherlands
NETHERLANDS

Although everyone can agree that corruption is bad, identifying the best way for internal audit to fight it remains elusive, given the variety of factors individual organizations face. After looking at examples of major bribery and corruption schemes that resulted in criminal convictions and huge penalties, this session will provide participants with proven strategies and programs they can incorporate into their audit programs.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to look at bribery and corruption from a risk angle.
• Learn how U.S. and U.K. legislation affects organizations outside these countries.
• Gain insights into anti-bribery and corruption managements systems (ISO 37001).
• Learn how to assess the effectiveness of their organization’s anti-corruption and bribery program.​

Hans Nieuwlands has more than 20 years of experience leading internal audit functions for several industries including the financial sector, utilities, and retail. Nieuwlands is an active volunteer for The Institute of Internal Auditors, working for the Board of Trustees of the Internal Audit Foundation and the Committee of Research and Educational Advisors. He is the author of the books, "Auditing Anti-bribery Programs" and "Sustainability and Internal Audit." Nieuwlands is a recognized speaker on various topics including culture, sustainability, and quality assurance, at The IIA’s international, regional and national conferences from Canada to Australia.​

Session Details TBD

Maria Aridi
Internal Audit Manager
Kenya School of Law
KENYA

Organisational strategy is important as it enables the organisation to clearly articulate the direction and scope over the long term. It allows the organisation to determine configuration of its resources in a dynamic environment to achieve objectives. Internal audit's value proposition is provision of comprehensive reviews of status of strategic objectives during the strategic plan period. Through monitoring and evaluation, internal audit can fulfill its mandate in the organisation as articulated by the IPPF (to enhance and protect the organisational value by providing risk based objective assurance advice and insight). This presentation will cover strategy, effective strategic objectives, and auditing strategic objectives, including illustrations on detailed testing.

In this session, participants will:

• Understand the key role of defining strategic objectives in the strategic planning process.
• Examine characteristics of good strategic objectives.
• Identify key strategic objectives that audit needs to review.​​

Maria Aridi joined the Kenya School of Law in 2007 when she established its internal audit department. The successful development of this fledgling group was officially recognized when it was ranked as the best performing department in the financial year 2014-2015. Aridi previously worked in the banking sector and at PricewaterhouseCoopers. In 2017 she was a conference speaker at the 3rd DBA Africa Management Review International Conference in Nairobi.​

MODERATOR: Mohammed Siddiqui, CIA, CRMA, CPA, CA
Vice President, Internal Audit
Chief Risk Officer
Facility Association
CANADA

Steve Goepfert, CIA, QIAL, CRMA, CPA
Chief Audit Executive (Ret.)
United Airlines
USA

Neeraj Kumar, CIA, CRMA, CA
Senior Vice President, Internal Audit
Emirates Group
CANADA

Abdulqader Obaid Ali, QIAL, CRMA, CFE
Chairman
IIA–UAE
UAE

How can internal auditors win the confidence of stakeholders and become their "trusted advisors"? And, how should internal auditors demonstrate the immense value of their work which will help the executives, the audit committee, and the board in their responsibilities to protect, improve, and optimize the organization?

During this interactive session, our seasoned panelists will share real stories from their distinguished careers, focusing on the occasions when they felt on top of the world and wanted to be internal auditors for ever and ever as well as the times when they felt that they should just abandon ship, run awa​y, and drive a taxi instead.

In this session, participants will:

• Discover the nuances and the subtleties in the science and the art of delivering high value internal audit services, which could help protect, improve, and optimize the organization, and enable internal auditors to win and retain the “trusted advisor” title.
• Learn about the potential pitfalls in the world of internal auditing and how these can be anticipated, managed, and overcome.
• Develop ideas and strategies to enhance the internal audit function’s brand and value in the organization and with stakeholders.

Mohammed Siddiqui has 25 years' experience in internal audit and enterprise risk management (ERM) in the public and private sectors. He also is an active speaker, moderator, and facilitator as well as an instructor on ERM at the Schulich Business School, York University. Siddiqui has a wealth of hands-on experience in developing and managing compliance, audit, and ERM functions and expert knowledge of internal control frameworks and regulations. Prior to his current position, he has held audit leadership positions at the Office of the Auditor General of Ontario, Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Hydro Ottawa Group.

Steve Goepfert retired from United Airlines 2013 as the CAE. He assumed the role after the merger of United and Continental, where had served as chief auditor for 21 years, in 2010. Goepfert has held numerous leadership roles for The IIA, including serving as chairman of the Board for 2006–07, and in 2012, he was inducted into The IIA’s American Hall of Distinguished Audit Practitioners’ inaugural class for his service to the organization. In addition, Goepfert received the Victor Z. Brink award in 2013 for distinguished service to The IIA.

Neeraj Kumar retired from Emirates Airline and Group companies in 2013, where he held the position of senior vice president of internal audit. During his career, Kumar constantly endeavored to expand the envelope of internal auditing through a determined effort to add value and challenging existing norms where possible. He urged auditors in professional forums across the globe to try to understand human nature and to place that knowledge at the very core of key processes and risk management. At present Kumar is an internal audit and risk management consultant based in Toronto, Canada.

Abdulqader Obaid Ali has over 30 years of experience in internal audit, fraud, IT, and risk management. He is CEO of Smartworld, an ICT digital service provider joint venture between Etisalat and Dubai South focused on digital operational, implementation, and smart solutions. Previously, Ali was chief of internal audit for Dubai World Group. He is chairman of the board of The IIA’s UAE Internal Audit Association affiliate and has served on audit committees for Mada’in Properties and Al Masraf Bank. Ali was the founder and chair of Ideas.Arabia, which emphasized innovation and suggestion reward programs. His commitment to quality led to his role as chairman of Dubai Quality Group.

Ahmed Al Ansari
Acting Chief Executive Officer
Dubai South
UAE

Terry Hatherell, CRMA, CPA, CA
Global Internal Audit Leader
Deloitte, LLP
​CANADA

What can Chief Audit Executives (CAEs) do to enhance their impact and shape internal audit as a true business partner? Join us as we reveal the highly anticipated results of Deloitte’s 2018 Global Chief Audit Executive Research Study, which further explores the trends and issues first identified in Deloitte’s widely successful 2016 Global Chief Audit Executive Survey, and uncovers additional relevant insights.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore disruptors, such as analytics, cognitive technologies, and robotics.
  
• Identify where disruptors impact an organization and potential solutions.
  
• Learn strategies for strengthening the CAE role within the organization and board/audit committee.
  
• Discover how internal audit can play a strategic and key role in addressing barriers, disruptors, and opportunities.​
  

Terry Hatherell develops and executes Deloitte’s internal audit strategy while leading the internal audit practice globally. Through engaging with CAEs, audit committees, and management teams worldwide, he helps clients leverage leading internal audit practices and innovation in areas such as analytics, agile internal audit, and cognitive technologies. Hatherell also serves as Deloitte’s global operational risk leader, helping clients manage critical operational-related risks pertaining to the extended enterprise, technology, data, conduct, and culture. In addition to having been lead author of several of Deloitte’s internal audit publications, he is a frequent conference speaker on the topics of internal audit best practices, risk management, and governance.

Major General Mohammed Al Marri
General Manager
General Department of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
DUBAI​

Maj. Gen. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri is general manager of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, a member of the Executive Council of Dubai, chairman of the board of directors of the Ministry of Interior’s Residence Sector, and a member of the board of directors of the International Humanitarian City. Early in his career with the Dubai Police, he served as an officer, director of the criminal evidence department, and deputy director of the general department of criminal investigation. He was appointed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as director of the Dubai naturalization and residency department and general supervisor of the directorate of nationality. Al-Marri has conducted training on criminal investigation, crime scene evidence, and fingerprinting in many countries, as well as contributed to major projects involving security and criminal matters.

Session Abstract Coming Soon​​

Daniel Lebel, CIA, CCSA, CFSA, CGAP, CRMA
Chief Audit Executive
University of Quebec in Montreal and President, CIA International Inc.
CANADA

This course gives candidates a high level introduction and overview of the topics covered with Part 3 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce your CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA’s CIA Learning System Part 3 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.

Daniel Lebel has more than 20 years' experience in internal audit and risk management, with expertise in several areas such as manufacturing, transportation, banking, and pharmaceutical. In addition to his work as CAE at the University of Quebec, Lebel has been involved as a lecturer, teacher, coach, and mentor, and as a CIA instructor in America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.​

​Anna Di Gregorio, CIA, CGAP, AIAQA
Corporate Manager, National Quality and Risk Management
KPMG AG Switzerland
SWITZERLAND

Most organizations today are facing both new opportunities and new risks brought by technological innovation. Vulnerabilities become more difficult to identify, and impact is greater as a result of interconnection and process automation. Integration of special considerations for technology-related risks into classical governance models is essential for business sustainability. A holistic technology risk governance approach allows for comprehensive scope and enhanced collaboration between the different stakeholders in business structure.

In this session, participants will:

• Discuss the role of technology risk governance role within the corporate governance framework.
  
• Explore a model for a comprehensive approach and its integration.
  
• Review examples of potential technology-related risks with simplified technical aspects.
  
• Develop ideas on the points of intersections of various areas of expertise and their combination.
  

Anna Di Gregorio has 16 years of experience in the fields of internal audit, business process engineering, and risk management. Prior to joining KPMG in 2016 and addressing technology risks, she worked as head of internal audit (CAE) and risk management advisor in private and public entities. Di Gregorio’s audit and consulting background across the EU and other countries has spanned diverse industries, including financial services, insurance, energy, civil construction, manufacturing, and logistics. In addition, she has lectured at universities, conducted training and facilitation sessions, and presented at numerous seminars and conferences.​

Robert Findlay
Global Head of IT Audit
Glanbia
IRELAND

Many organizations are now disseminating information and trading through multiple social media channels without any consideration for the threats they carry. These threats are both internal and external and in many cases completely out of the organization's control. This session will present both the leading research in this area and practical experience of implementing social media platforms and control platforms, and auditing the deployment of social media by organizations in different sectors.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn the key control weaknesses of social media.
• Understand how these weaknesses are being exploited.
• Identify key control strategies to mitigate these weaknesses.​​

Bob Findlay has more than 30 years' IT, audit, and security experience, having managed and set up IT audit functions in global businesses such as British Airways, the Co-operative Group, ARYZTA, Paddy Power, and now Glanbia. He has also performed consulting services for EY.​

Sven Hirsekorn, CIA, CRMA
Head of Compliance — Global Duty Free
Imperial Tobacco
GERMANY

This session will provide a real-world example of a supply chain, from the manufacturer through the wholesaler to the retailer, to illustrate the technical solutions auditors can apply to trace products in order to uncover fraud. But as the ultimate goal is to prevent fraud, the speaker will demonstrate how to set up triggers to alert the organization to potentially fraudulent situations.

In this session, participants will:

• Gain an understanding of how products can be uniquely marked and how this can be used to trace them along the supply chain.
• Examine how data gathered along the supply chain can be enriched with publically/internally available information in order to predict fraud.
• See how this all works in a real life example.
• Learn how to adapt the underlying principle to ​ their own industry.

Sven Hirsekorn is responsible for identifying, assessing, and managing all risks that the business is facing. He has 15 years’ internal audit experience in the United States and Germany. Prior to joining Imperial Tobacco, Hirsekorn worked in the consulting industry, advising clients on topics such as risk management, compliance, and corporate governance. In addition, he gained extensive experience in managing and performing IT and operational audits globally for a significant number of clients in a wide variety of industries. Hirsekorn has been published in professional journals and is an invited speaker at conferences, seminars, and training opportunities.

Mohamed Nurul Alam
Chief Compliance Officer
Banglalink Digital Communications
BANGLADESH

Because an organization's culture depends largely on how the individual employees think and act, changing it requires more than a set of rules of conduct. But the right framework provides the basis for lasting and consistent change. This session will present required policies, procedures, and their implementation for such a change. The speaker will also cover the training and education employees need to do the right thing.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn the process of building an ethical culture in their organization.
• Examine a compliance framework for conductin​g ethical business.
• Learn how establishing a compliance program can protect an organization from reputational damage.
• Explore methods of introducing compliance requirements to stakeholders to ensure compliance of anti-bribery and corruption laws and protect shareholder interest.

Mohamed Nurul Alam has 37 years' experience with assurance functions in multinational companies. At present he is the chief compliance officer of a large mobile telecommunications company in Bangladesh where he previously held positions as head of internal audit and company secretary. Prior to that, Alam worked in GlaxoSmithKline Bangladesh as internal auditor and company secretariat for 26 years. In addition to his involvement with his local affiliate, Alam is chairman of the Corporate Laws Review Sub-Committee in the Institute of Chartered Secretaries of Bangladesh and previously was chairman of the Corporate Governance Award Excellence Committee.

Deanna Sullivan, CIA, CRMA, CPA, CFE
Principal
SullivanSolutions
​USA

The question of what motivates smart and talented people to commit fraud is fascinating. Good people doing bad things. The white-collar crimes that lead major companies to collapse usually begin with seemingly minor ethical violations that spiral into something much bigger. Are we being strategic enough in our ethics evaluations to identify these culprits? This is an interactive session for all who want to understand more about unethical behavior, how it can lead to fraud within an organization, and some best practices for addressing.

In this session participants will:

• Recognize the psychological reasons for why good people do bad things.
• Identify the primary behavioral red flags of fraud.
• Evaluate their own ethical behavior.
• Study a framework for ethical decision making.
• ​Explore ideas for strengthening corporate culture and deterring fraud
  

Deanna Sullivan is an internationally recognized speaker, author, and trainer, making it her mission to ensure education is effective and fun. She is a frequent speaker for conferences and events around the globe and conducts programs for both technical and management development. Popular topics include ethics, fraud, COSO, report writing, leadership, and communications. Sullivan is certified to teach ethics for Texas CPAs, is a Zig Ziglar Legacy Certified Trainer, and facilitates courses for The IIA’s On-Site Group Training team.

Komitas Stepanyan, CRMA, CRISC
Deputy CAE, Internal Audit Department
Central Bank of Armenia
ARMENIA

Today digital technologies touch every aspect of our daily lives: social interaction, health-care activity, economic decision-making, even political engagements, and dependence on this connectivity is growing swiftly. This provides good conditions for “bad guys” to hack into our most private information. And one of an organization's biggest weaknesses isn't its technology, but its own people.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore how cybersecurity is not a myth anymore in this digital world.
• Learn now social networks are rich hunting grounds for hackers.
• Discover the tactics of social engineering, which requires no technical skills.
• Discuss the foundation for cybersecurity: knowing who and what to trust.​​​

Komitas Stepanyan has 18 years of extensive experience in internal audit, IT audit, and information security, including nine years as the head of an IT audit division. In recent years, he has been actively engaged in different programs and forums and was a speaker at international events in Europe and post-soviet countries. He is a trusted adviser for the board and top management on cybersecurity issues.

Speaker Details Coming Soon

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Sanjay Patel
Chief Operating Officer
Illinois Power Agency
USA

A brand is best defined by two​ words – reputation and perception. Historically, internal audit has proven the value it can provide an organization, yet recognition and perception of that value has remained a daunting challenge. However, organizations worldwide are realizing the value of internal audit goes beyond assessments, reviews, and reports. Rather, internal audit is now best characterized by two dynamic and powerful words – trusted advisor.

In this session, participants will:

• Discuss the attributes of a successful trusted advisor.
• Understand the purpose and value of establishing and managing their personal brand.
• Explore methods for building and further enhancing their reputation and internal audit brand credibility.

Sanjay Patel has more than 25 years of progressive risk, control, and audit-related experience in state government, management consulting, IT, and financial services. Patel’s focus on personal branding and ability to use his communication skills have helped him position internal audit as a value-add business partner. He has developed and delivered many training presentations on topics including communication, crisis management, and regulatory compliance, and has conducted webinar presentations to worldwide audiences. Patel is also a self-published author of "From Layoff to Take-Off," an e-book blending storytelling and self-help concepts.

Yulia Gurman, CIA, CPA
Chief Audit Executive
Packaging Corporation of America
USA

George Stoyanov, CIA
Partner
Grant Thornton
UAE

The new wave of digital innovations that have surrounded our work environments are changing the way we live and do business. This presentation will examine the impact that digital innovation will have on internal audit both now and in the future, as well as present proven and practical elements which businesses need to consider, while leveraging value from internal audit in a new, dynamic way.

In this session,​ participants will:

• Explore the many digital innovations that impact their work environments.
• Identify the top five practical elements businesses need to consider in order to remain relevant.
• Determine how to interact amidst the development of the next generation of entrepreneurial technologies.​​​

Prior to joining PCA, Yulia Gurman served as vice president, internal audit at Retail Properties of America, Inc. (RPAI) where she established the internal audit function soon after RPAI went public. She had responsibilities over internal audit, internal controls, and ERM. Gurman also served as director of internal audit at OfficeMax where she managed a team responsible for operational, financial, and compliance audits throughout the organization. She began her career as an external auditor at a public accounting firm where she performed financial audits. Gurman has previously spoken at SuperStrategies conferences, CAE Master’s Program, IIA International Conference, IIA Chicago Chapter Annual Seminar, and the American Accounting Association’s Annual Meeting.

George Stoyanov has over 17 years of advisory experience in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. Prior to his role as a partner for the transformation advisory at Grant Thornton UAE, he worked for EY, PwC, Arthur Andersen, and Kraft. Stoyanov’s expertise in corporate governance, risk management, and internal audit has improved performance, enhanced efficiency, driven growth, and maximized profits for financial services, hospitality, real estate, FMCG, education, healthcare, telecom, NGO, and oil/gas companies. He led the risk transformation governance of a major Islamic bank with over 40 projects and managed internal control reviews for several major financial institutions. Stoyanov has also directed the implementation, setup, and training of corporate governance functions and internal audit management systems.

Ayesha Lootah
Board Member
IIA–UAE
UAE ​

Session Abstract Coming Soon​

Ayesha Lootah is currently the director of the internal audit department at the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Dubai. As an internal audit professional with extensive experience in financial services, tourism, and hospitality industries, as well as risk management and governance, Lootah has presented at many conferences and workshops. She also served five years on the IIA-UAE Board of Governance and is Chairwoman of the Social Committee for The IIA International Conference, Dubai. Lootah is a member of several committees, including the Strategic Projects Steering Committees at DTCM.

Daniel Lebel, CIA, CCSA, CFSA, CGAP, CRMA
Chief Audit Executive
University of Quebec in Montreal and President, CIA International Inc.
CANADA

This course gives candidates a high level introduction and overview of the topics covered with Part 3 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce your CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA’s CIA Learning System Part 3 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.

Daniel Lebel has more than 20 years' experience in internal audit and risk management, with expertise in several areas such as manufacturing, transportation, banking, and pharmaceutical. In addition to his work as CAE at the University of Quebec, Lebel has been involved as a lecturer, teacher, coach, and mentor, and as a CIA instructor in America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.​​

Adukia Rajkumar
Chartered Accountant
Adukia & Associates
INDIA

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword among foreword-thinking organizations. It is the basis for all organizations to continue to survive and thrive into the future. The good news is that we don't have to sacrifice our well-being today in order to protect that of future generations.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore what is meant by "sustainability."
• Develop ideas for reporting on their organization's sustainability.
• Examine various policies on environmental protection and social responsibility.
• Learn how to support sustainable business.​

Dr. Rajkumar S. Adukia is an eminent Chartered Accountant, internal control and risk management expert, as well as an international insolvency and forensic specialist. Dr. Adukia is the founding and senior partner of Adukia & Associates and has more than 35 years of experience in fields of financial planning, budgetary control, and tax consultancy. As a highly acclaimed academician, Dr. Adukia has authored more than 200 books and presented 250 seminars around the world. Further, Dr. Adukia serves as a faculty speaker in a workshop on commodity risk management for bankers organized by CAFRAL (Centre for Advanced Financial Research and Learning), as well as faculty member at the National Institute of Securities Management (NISM) and Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA).

Shagen Ganason, CIA
Chief Audit Executive
Ministry for the Development of Indigenous Peoples
NEW ZEALAND

Fraud is a multimillion dollar business and it is increasing every year. No organization is immune to fraud. With the scale and volume of data available today, it is easy for a fraudster to hide in the background unnoticed. Traditional approaches either take too long or are ineffective – often like winning the lottery as the odds are against you. This session will use two real life case studies to demonstrate how various forms of analytics (data, text, and visual) can be used to uncover fraud.

In this session, participants will:

• Understand why analytics is a useful tool in fighting fraud.
• Discover how to use tools and resources available to narrow your search.
• Hear why internal control systems are never good enough.
• Learn to how to identify red flags.

Shagen Ganason has more than 30 years of experience in the field of accounting, audit, and risk management. His international experience encompasses a variety of cultures and industries including manufacturing, airline, agriculture, financial services, and government across three continents. Apart from internal audit and risk management, he has had roles in continuous improvement and the development of lean practices in Australia and the Asia Pacific. He was also the chief financial officer and chief operating officer for a British government investment arm in Indonesia. Ganason is a regular presenter and trainer at local, regional, and international IIA and Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) events.

Deepak Wadhawan, CIA, FCA, CPA
Chief Executive Officer
IIA–India
INDIA

Artificial intelligence (AI) applications are expected to be widely deployed in day to day activities for all. How soon would auditing bots and cognitive applications be part of an internal auditor’s scope of work? And, how to proceed?

In this session, participants will:

• Explore where bots and cognitive applications can be deployed in their business.
• Identify consulting opportunities during application development stage.
• Learn how to protect the organization's interests through audit of bots and cognitive applications.
• Determine how to upskill rapidly for auditing AI.
  

Deepak Wadhawan is chief executive, IIA-India and serves the IIA as a member of the Global Executive Leadership Team. He has over 30 years of experience in internal audit and his previous role includes senior advisor, KPMG India. He is a proponent of early adaption of new technologies, methodologies, and frameworks and is currently advocating the role of internal auditors in disruptive business modelling and artificial intelligence (AI) application review.

Anton van Wyk, CIA, QIAL, CRMA
Partner, Director
PricewaterhouseCoopers
SOUTH AFRICA

Fundamental changes in business and society, integrated reporting, and inclusive and sustainable capitalism are leading to major shifts in the corporate world. Internal audit’s application of an outcomes-based approach plays a key role in quality governance and value creation, helping to ensure a strong ethical culture, robust performance and control, effective leadership, and legitimacy.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to use technology, innovation, and talent to execute internal audit strategies.
  
• Understand how quantifying internal audit’s key attributes facilitates overall success.
  
• Identify better ways of measuring risks and opportunities.
  
• Determine how a greater focus on data and technology can address reporting challenges.
  
• Discover how this new knowledge can drive fulfillment of broader expectations.
  

Anton van Wyk has nearly 30 years of experience in corporate governance, risk management, and internal audit, working with local and global clients. He currently leads PwC’s risk assurance practice in Africa. Previously, van Wyk served as PWC’s global internal audit services leader and on the firm’s Africa and South Africa Governance Boards. He is chairman of the South African Corporate Governance Network and a full member of the King Committee on Governance in South Africa. Van Wyk was the first individual from the African continent and the first South African to have led The IIA; he served as global chairman, IIA global board senior vice chairman, and IIA global vice chairman of professional practices and professional certifications.​

Dr. Khalid Al-Faddagh, PhD, DIC
Board Audit Committee Member
Saudi Basic Industries Corporation
​SAUDI ARABIA

There are several references available to corporations seeking to develop an effective fraud risk management program, including Tone at the Top policy, a well-defined framework, and related key principles and processes. As there is no one-size-fits-all program for managing fraud risks, organizations often develop or customize necessary documents that fit their business model complexity. While this represents a good starting point, the deployment of such programs is often challenging.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn more about general fraud risk management requirements from several known references.
  
• Glean insights into perceptions, myths, and miss-quotes about fraud and related programs.
  
• Uncover evolving trends in corporate governance reporting structure.
  
• Gain a clearer understanding of the responsibilities in managing risks, particularly fraud risk.
  

Khalid Al-Faddagh is the former Saudi Aramco chief audit executive and board audit committee secretary. During his 32-year career, he led auditing and fraud investigations and established the enterprise risk management (ERM) framework. Al-Faddagh served on several Boards, including LUBEREF (KSA), SHOWA Shell – Japan, and Petron Corporation in the Philippines. He presently serves as vice chairman of the audit oversight committee at King Fahad University (KFUPM), independent board audit committee member at Saudi Telecom (STC) and SABIC, chairman of the risk and compliance committee at ACWA Power, and chairman of the audit and risk committee at Saudi Tabreed. In 2013 and 2014, Al-Faddagh co-chaired the 4th and 5th Middle East Anti-Corruption Summit in Dubai, UAE. In 2015, he received the regional “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the UAE IAA chapter.​

Nada Al Chalabi, CIA, QIAL, CISA, CISSP, CISM, CRISC
Senior Audit Manager
Dubai World
UAE

Cloud computing is an industry trend that is here to stay. There are clearly a number of risks and uncertainties in transitioning to the cloud, so strong governance and control are an essential part of any decision to transition to the cloud. This session will provide practical guidance on the essential risks and controls that auditors need to consider.

In this session, participants will:

• Identify the best use of cloud services and how they can be adopted in ways that do not put a business’s risk profile in danger.
  
• Understand the key cloud computing principles and how to help their organization establish effective governance practices.
  
• Learn how to ensure a level of transparency and trust with the service providers.
  

Nada Al Chalabi has over 16 years of international audit, IT, and consulting experience with large public/private companies in numerous industries, including transportation, logistics, real estate, business services, retail, hospitality, e-commerce, and IT services. In addition to delivering timely insights on emerging risks and organizational/internal control improvements, Al Chalabi has partnered with finance, IT, and business operations to enhance governance, risk, and control. His expertise includes establishing internal audit and computer forensics functions; developing team members at all levels; and leading international, integrated, and co-sourced audit teams. He is an internal audit quality assessor for The IIA and regularly volunteers to perform external quality assessments of internal audit functions.​

Speaker Details Coming Soon

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Darryl Woods
Speaker
Start Smart Life
USA

Session Abstract Coming Soon

Darryl Woods boldly believes that within every person is a latent potential for greatness. He is founder of Start Smart Life, a personal development company that offers keynotes and training in the areas of leadership development, relationship building, and potential maximization. Woods authored the best-selling book, “Dream On,” and he travels extensively, inspiring, informing, and empowering people globally to live to their maximum potential as leaders and contributors to the world at large.

Hossam El Shaffei, CCSA, CRMA, CFE, CA, CFCI
Partner
RSM
EGYPT

The difficult thing about artificial intelligence (AI) is that AI is now widely used in many industries and services, yet it is not fully understood. While many are familiar with the expression, many lack the understanding of the possible consequences of AI, namely the potential disappearance of some industries, services, and professions. Therefore, it is important for boards and audit committees to be aware of and familiar with the risks involved with AI and should include it in their agendas. (Additional Information Coming Soon)

Hossam El Shaffei has more than 30 years' work experience in multinational organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and USAID. During his career he has provided management and their governing boards with advice for better governance, risk management, controls, fraud prevention and detection, quality, transparency, and fighting corruption. El Shaffei is active promoting and developing the oversight profession. In addition to his involvement with local chapters, El Shaffei is an internal audit quality assurance reviewer with IIA Global, a consultant for several organizations, and a recognized keynote speaker on oversight matters, anti-corruption, internal audit quality assurance in audit, and combating fraud in the Middle East.

Basem Tayseer Hijaz, CIA, QIAL, CRMA, CPA, CISA
Chief Audit Executive
NADEC
SAUDI ARABIA

Today the int​ernal audit function is not limited to annual assessments of operational and financial controls. Instead, internal auditors are also expected to provide assurance and consulting services on a broad range of new issues and emerging risks, while also delivering timely insights to guide key strategic decisions. How internal audit responds to these expectations will determine their success, relevance, and value in the coming years.

In this session, participants will:

• Discuss stakeholder and audit committee expectations.
• Learn how to prioritize risks and link them with the audit plan.
• Explore newer audit skills that are becoming increasingly important, such as data analysis.
• Learn about providing consulting based on studied inference, and other best practices.​

Basem Hijaz has more than 14 years of internal audit experience at a number of listed companies in the Middle East. He currently is the chief audit executive in one of the largest listed companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hijaz has presented as a speaker in many seminar​s and conferences held in the region and currently serves as chair of the IIA Advocacy Committee. He is also an audit committee member and secretary in many companies.

Vicki McIntyre, CIA, CFSA, CRMA
President
FirstPlus Resolutions, Inc.
USA

This course offers candidates a high-level introduction and overview of the topics covered on Part 2 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA's CIA Learning System Part 2 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.

Vicki McIntyre has helped CIA candidates successfully pass their exams for more than ten years, having taught The IIA's CIA Learning System extensively. McIntyre is a globally recognized educator and trainer who whas a combination of internal audit, financial management, public accounting, regulatory supervision, and compliance management experience. With more than 20 years in the financial services industry, McIntyre has been a regulatory bank examiner, and a vice president of both finance and risk management. She also performs quality assessments of internal audit activities on behalf of The IIA.

Paul Sobel, CIA, QIAL, CRMA
Vice President, Chief Audit Executive
Georgia-Pacific LLC
USA

In 2017, COSO issued its updated ERM Framework, titled Enterprise Risk Management: Integrating with Strategy and Performance. This Framework shifts the focus of ERM from managing downside risks to creating, protecting, and realizing value. Not surprisingly, there are many implications for internal auditors who are looking toward remaining valued and relevant in the future. This presentation will help internal auditors understand their role in managing risk in uncertain times.

In this session participants will:

• ​Learn about the five components and twenty principles that make up the updated Framework.
• Understand how this new Framework impacts internal audit’s assurance and advisory roles.
• Explore ways to advance risk management in their organization.
• Identify how to use the Framework to assess the effectiveness of enterprise risk management.

Paul Sobel, CIA, QIAL, CRMA, is vice president/chief audit executive for Georgia-Pacific, LLC, a privately-owned forest and consumer products company based in Atlanta. He is also serving as the Chairman of the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commissi​on (COSO). Sobel has many years of experience in internal auditing leadership roles as a CAE for four public companies. He has published three books through the Internal Audit Foundation on audit topics and is a frequent speaker at industry conferences. Sobel is a long-time IIA volunteer leader including having served as IIA Global Chairman of the Board. In 2012 he was recognized in Treasury & Risk magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in Finance. He has also served on the Standing Advisory Group of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) and as The IIA’s representative on the Pathways Commission, which developed recommendations to enhance the future of accounting education in the United States.

Anthony Chalker, CIA, CRMA, CISA, CPA, CFF
Managing Director
Protiviti
USA

Blockchain technology, founded on the basics of cryptography, has been used for years as the underpinning of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. While it has obvious applications in the financial services industry for payments, blockchain is forcing us to rethink how we gain trust in transactions and documents of all kinds, from “smart contracts” to proxy votes. The system’s risks and pitfalls include a massive increase in computing power needs, vulnerability to cyberattack, and a general lack of understanding or regulation.

In this session, participants will:

• Receive an introduction to blockchain history and its basic underlying technology.
  
• Learn how blockchain can be applied to industries beyond bitcoin and cybercurrency.
  
• Understand the strategic and technical risks posed by blockchain.
  
• Determine how blockchain can be used to solve traditional business problems.
  
• Outline how internal audit can prepare for blockchain within their organization.
  

Anthony Chalker is a Protiviti managing director, leading the information technology assurance practice for the Southeast region. His 20+ years of experience has included ‘Big Five’ public accounting and a Fortune 50 company. Focused on aligning strategy and risk awareness, Chalker blends his business and industry insight with deep technology understanding to support senior management and Boards of Directors in managing a broad range of technology risks. He is a frequent speaker on many topics, including data privacy, governance risk and compliance (GRC), continuous control monitoring/auditing (CCM/CCA) and evolving technology.​

Munenori Iwanaga, CIA, US CPA (California)
Senior Director and Head of Internal Audit APJ and Greater China
SAP
SINGAPORE

Technology can be used to improve, expand, and streamline many internal audit processes. Data analytics and machine learning are proving to be important tools for internal auditors to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This session will provide specific examples of how SAP SE's Corporate Audit group uses technology to overcome challenges in internal auditing.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to simplify the audit process leveraging technology.
• Discuss how to position audit as the trusted advisor to key stakeholders.
• ​Examine how machine learning capabilities can evolve the internal audit function.

Mune Iwanaga is responsible for operational and compliance topics to strategic audits on sales and services. Additionally, he has experience in conducting audits supporting the company's post-merger integration (PMI) activities. Iwanaga also serves as the statutory auditor SAP Japan, SAP K​orea, SAP Labs Korea, SAP India, and SAP Labs India. He began his professional career with Deloitte and Touche, in San Jose, California, focusing on external audit. After relocating to Tokyo with Protiviti in the internal audit consulting practice, Iwanaga joined SAP Japan Internal Audit in 2010. In 2013, he relocated to SAP's Global Sales headquarters in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania.

Mónica Ramírez Chimal
Partner
Asserto RSC
MEXICO

Money laundering is so pervasive that often organizations don't even realize they are victims of criminal and terrorist groups. This session will provide you with an overview of what money laundering is and how it differs from terrorist financing. You will also learn how key internal controls can be used to minimize the risk of being used to launder money and what is being done to combat it at an international level.

In this session, participants will:

• Examine the difference between money laundering and terrorist financing so as to detect vulnerable areas within their own organizations.
• Become familiar with different methods on how money is laundered so as to build elements into their audit plans to recognize and deter it.
• Learn about key internal controls that they can use to protect their organizations against money laundering risk.
• ​Gain a better appreciation of money laundering's impact worldwide.

Mónica Ramírez Chimal has more than 19 years’ experience in business risk administration, internal audit, fraud prevention, compliance, and anti-money laundering. Her book, “Don’t let them wash, Nor dry!” has received positive reviews internationally; she​ also has written several articles for international magazines. Ramírez has been an international trainer (Mexico, United States, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Panama) and expert guest speaker on various topics for international conferences, webinars, companies, and universities. She is a member of the Advisory Board of the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics' magazine and a member of the GLC Europe Blog panelist group.​

Pritesh Dattani, CIA, QIAL, CMIIA, CRMA, FCA
Director, Audit, Risk & Compliance
UAE Based Organization
UAE

What is a fraud scenario assessment? And why should I conduct one as part of the internal audit plan? This presentation will attempt to address those questions from the perspective of a manager who is seeking to help his business counter the fight against fraud and corruption. A discussion of the benefits to the business of a fraud scenario assessment will also be presented.

In this session, participants will:

• Examine a practical application of how to conduct a fraud risk scenario assessment in their business.
  
• Focus on assessment and approach-learn assessment methodology.
  
• Explore areas vulnerable to fraud risk.
  
• Review next steps in developing an anti-fraud program.​
  

Pritesh Dattani has over 20 years of experience in audit, risk, fraud, and compliance. Having qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Ernst & Young, he moved into industry, spending most of his career leading internal audit functions for entrepreneurial and highly successful companies in several industries, including retail, FMCG, aviation, hospitality, and telecom. Dattani has created anti-fraud frameworks, and he has also been a speaker at numerous internal audit conferences in both the UK and UAE.​

Leonard Block, CIA, CPA
​Associate Vice President, Internal Audit
Nasdaq
USA

Did you know that audit analytics can transform the way companies do business and provide a competitive edge? This session will present a real-life example where data analysis enabled Nasdaq executives to quickly take what internal audit had started and implement systematic changes in organizati​onal processes and workflows.

In this session, participants will:

• Hear how the Information Services group at Nasdaq now uses 30 analytics reports and workflows to ensure integrity of their customer data as well as the completeness and accuracy of billing (and increase the bottom line!).
• Discuss how participants can create their own customer-focused “self-service” system where analytics can point to unusual data usage.
• Get tips on how to drive consistency between customer, product, billing, and general ledger systems and explore billing gaps.
• How internal audit — with the use of analytics — can become agents of change and help their organization become more effective, efficient, and profitable.​

Lenny Block is an associate vice president of internal audit at Nasdaq. He brings more than 35 years of professional experience in internal audit, business process reengineering, database design, and project management. Block has extensive practical experience managing all phases of an internal audit, ensuring regulatory compliance, operational effectiveness, and financial reporting integrity for Nasdaq-owned entities worldwide. He also leads the internal audit department‘s Data Analytics Program and donates his expertise to the corporate ethics team on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance. Prior to Nasdaq Block has worked in multiple​ industries including non-profit, mortgage-backed securities, and telecommunications.

Kristiina Lagerstedt
Vice President, Audit & Risk
Sanoma Plc
FINLAND

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon

Session Details TBD​

Ariel Ramirez
Managing Director
Berkeley Research Group LLC
BRAZIL​

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Badar Abdullah Al Hashmi, CIA, CRMA, CRISC
President
IIA–Oman
OMAN

One of today's hot topics for internal audit includes the new ways of thinking that organizations will have to adopt as the next two waves of talent flow into the workforce. It is estimated that in 2020, "Millenials" and "Centennials" will make up 60% of the global workforce. Organizations will need to adapt to their expecations in order to retain top talent and maximize their unique skillsets.​

Badar Abdullah Al Hashmi currently volunteers professionally as the elected president of The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Oman and is a member of IIA Global’s Institute Relations Committee. He gained 18+ years of experience in business risk and advisory, working for the world’s top Big Four accounting firms in New Zealand, Canada, U.K., U.S.A., and the Gulf Cooperation Council. Al Hashmi currently serves as chief audit executive for a large telecommunications corporation.

Vicki McIntyre, CIA, CFSA, CRMA
President
FirstPlus Resolutions, Inc.
USA

This course offers candidates a high-level introduction and overview of the topics covered on Part 2 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA's CIA Learning System Part 2 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.​

Vicki McIntyre has helped CIA candidates successfully pass their exams for more than ten years, having taught The IIA's CIA Learning System extensively. McIntyre is a globally recognized educator and trainer who whas a combination of internal audit, financial management, public accounting, regulatory supervision, and compliance management experience. With more than 20 years in the financial services industry, McIntyre has been a regulatory bank examiner, and a vice president of both finance and risk management. She also performs quality assessments of internal audit activities on behalf of The IIA.

Robert Melley
Managing Director
IA Innovation
USA

Norm Laviolette
Chief Executive Officer
Improv Asylum
USA

Our core session will demonstrate how to build off of others’ ideas on the spot. Improving teamwork, communication, and innovation can help you reach better solutions and achieve more effective results. All participants will be involved in an engaging way, without awkward group hugs, trust falls, or boring slideshow presentations. Every exercise will provide valuable takeaways and include open discussion about the principles learned.

In this session, participants will:

• Explore active listening skills and “reading” a group (whether it’s an individual or a full team).
  
• Learn how to enhance communication and adapt to change.
  
• Master techniques for thinking creatively and building off of the ideas of others.
  
• Examine the power of saying “Yes” versus the power of saying “No.”
  

Norm Laviolette, as co-founder and CEO of Improv Asylum, IA Innovation, and A.G.E., brings both corporate and military experience to the continued development and expansion of Improv Asylum’s theatrical and IA Innovation’s business divisions. Prior to a career in comedy and teaching, Laviolette worked in the marketing and public relations industries in New York City. He also served on the Massachusetts and Vermont Army National Guards. Laviolette continues to lead Improv Asylum’s strategic business and artistic vision — locally, nationally, and globally.

Additional Speaker Bios Coming Soon​

Riyaz Kasmani, CISM, CISA, PMP
Senior Manager –​ Governance, Risk, and Controls
Cisco Systems, Inc.
USA​

Data analytics is undeniably the present and future of audit. User adoption, though, has been mediocre at best. What are some common pitfalls (cultural fit, methodology, quality, etc.) of data analytics that lead to lower adoption by auditors? Can data analytics be embedded within your audit methodology? How do you maximize return on your data analytics investment?

In this session, participants will:

• Identify barriers to adoption of data analytics.
  
• Design an audit plan to drive analytics adoption.
  
• Lead the way with Federated Compliance Analytics.
  
• Empower not just one, but ALL three, Lines of Defense.
  

Riyaz Kasmani is head of audit intelligence at Cisco Systems. He has two decades of experience leading engineering, compliance, and data analytics teams. Prior to Cisco, Riyaz worked for 10 years at Netpace, Inc., where he held product and program management roles with clients at Cisco Systems, Hewlett-Packard, and Zions Bank. He is the founder of two startups and co-founder of the “Silicon Valley Audit Analytics Roundtable,” a best practices forum of audit analytics peers from Silicon Valley companies, including Google, Visa, Microsoft, and Adobe.​

Adil Buhariwaila, CIA, CRMA
Partner, Internal Audit & Risk Consulting
Crowe Horwath
UAE

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Peter Elam
Head of Internal Audit
Novartis International AG
SWITZERLAND

This session will draw on the experience of a highly seasoned chief audit executive and give participants insights into how to maximize the value of their audit engagements. The presenter will share practical examples from his work over the last eight years in transforming the audit function at a leading multinational pharmaceutical company.

In this session, participants will:

• Identify during audit planning what are the key enterprise risks, where these risks are concentrated, and therefore how best to allocate scarce audit resources.
• Understand the staffing and resourcing needs to ensure effective execution of an audit program that covers a wide range of risks.
• Explore how to work with other functions in the company to give the best possible assurance to the board and insights to management.
• Understand how root cause analysis and wider communication of audit findings can build awareness of what management can do to prevent gaps in governance and controls.​​​

Peter Elam has led the internal audit function for Novartis since 2010 when he joined the company. Previously, he spent 15 years at Shell in positions of increasing responsibility in Europe and Asia — including as finance director of Shell China Ltd., and as head of internal audit at Shell's downstream Europe business. Elam is a chartered internal auditor and a fellow of the UK Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

Alan Bachman, CFE
Education Manager (Ret.)
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
USA

Fraud and ethics are inextricably linked. In this session, you will hear from subject matter experts on ethical behaviors as well as from white-collar criminals on why they made the poor ethical choice that cost them their careers and changed them forever.

In this session participants will:

• Understand some of the fundamentals of personal and organizational ethics.
  
• Learn how organizations can set the right ethical tone.
  
• Review white-collar crime models.
  
• Gain awareness of the mindset and motivations of actual fraudsters.
  

Allan Bachman has more than 40 years of experience in fraud investigation and internal audit for retail, real estate, manufacturing, and higher education organizations, including actively working fraud cases — the largest well into seven figures. In addition, he taught college courses in accounting/auditing and information systems security. Just before retiring in August 2017, Bachman was responsible for the educational content of all ACFE domestic and international conferences, new seminar development, and online learning. He has also been an active training partner speaking at many ACFE, Chapter, and other association events. Bachman now regularly conducts training sessions and speaks for national organizations on a variety of anti-fraud and fraud-related topics.

Anthony Blenkey
Director of Assurance and Advisory
Moore Stephens LLP
UAE

Cybercrime and related security risks are pervasive and seem to escalate each year. Information security related attacks can come externally from hackers or internally from disaffected employees or staff. Knowing what your information security risks are and where in your systems the most material risks reside is vital, and risk awareness, preparedness, and resilience are key factors in maintaining reputation and profits.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn about current developments in information security regulations.
  
• Explore ways to advance internal audit’s role in identifying information security risks and maintaining operational efficiency and effectiveness.
  
• Assess how to facilitate management compliance with international requirements and utilize a blend of techniques to assess information security issues.
  
• Consider internal audit’s role in information security breach detection.
  

Anthony Blenkey has over 18 years of experience in corporate governance, risk management, and internal audit within both the private and public sectors. He currently oversees the assurance and advisory practice for Moore Stephens LLP in the UAE and Qatar, working with local and international clients. Blenkey has considerable knowledge of the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Audit as well as the field of corporate governance and strategic planning. He was previously a tutor for the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors UK and delivered their corporate governance and risk module. Blenkey is a regular public speaker and an active member of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors Guidance Working Group.​

Edit Weidlich, CGAP
Chief Audit Executive
European Medicines Agency
UK

Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Nita Singh, CRMA, CPA
Manager, Internal Audit
Rio Tinto
CANADA

In order to have stakeholders seek internal audit's guidance and to see them as more than policemen or watchdogs, internal auditors must build their brand and be more successful at building trusting relationships. This session will look at the internal audit cycle to determine how internal audit can deliver value and be sought as an independent advisor.

In this session, participants will:

• Learn how to brand the internal audit function and ensure that the organization is clear of the function's capability, mandate, and its position within the organization.
• Determine which stages of the internal audit process can lead to better engagement.
• Examine real life situations that will highlight some of the improvements we need to make as internal auditors to sell ourselves as well as our sometimes contentious audit findings.
• ​Take away tools to help them go from being "single" to "happily married" with their stakeholders.

Nita Singh has more than 18 years of accounting and auditing experience and more than 13 years of internal audit experience. Her career began at EY where she progressed to senior manager in the Risk Advisory Group and then worked as an acting general manager of internal audit for the second largest mining company in the world. Singh has experience implementing fit-for-purpose audit actions software in SAP globally as well as managing one of the larger outsourced internal audit contracts. She has also assisted in major international fraud investigations. Singh's prior speaking experience includes the Mining Show in Dubai (2016) and a mining conference in New York City (2017).

Linda Fonner, CIA, CRM​A, CPA, CISA, CPE
Director, Finance & Controlling, South-East Asia & India
Atotech Company Limited
THAILAND

Most companies have contracts with third parties and forget about them once they are signed. An internal audit function should be reviewing contracts and performing ongoing monitoring over the key performance indicators noted in the contracts. It is possible to have proper risk mitigation over the actions performed by third party distributors. In this session, the speaker will share some stories, problems, and possible actions to help mitigate those control weaknesses.

In this session, participants will:

• Examine red flags around “what can go wrong” with third-party distributors.
• Learn how to drive and implement an internal program that monitors and mitigates risks over third-party distributors.
• ​Discuss how to learn from problems experienced while monitoring third parties.

Currently located in Bangkok, Thailand, Linda Fonner is the director of finance and controls for a private equity-backed coatings and chemicals company, heading the South-East Asia and India businesses. Before this, she was the business controller/head of internal controls for a Fortune 50 bio-pharmaceutical company co​vering the Middle East, Africa, and India Region from Dubai, UAE. Linda’s significant international business experience has spanned more than 45 countries on six continents. She has benefited from her participation in various business projects, including Sarbanes-Oxley implementation, due diligence, special investigations, and business process analysis.

Speaker Information, Session Abstract & Speaker Bio Coming Soon​

Vicki McIntyre, CIA, CFSA, CRMA
President
FirstPlus Resolutions, Inc.
USA

This course offers candidates a high-level introduction and overview of the topics covered on Part 2 of the CIA exam, intended to reinforce CIA knowledge, clarify topics, and build exam-day confidence. Taught by CIA-certified instructors, attendees will work through practice exam questions, learn test-taking tips, and receive The IIA's CIA Learning System Part 2 self-study print and online software materials.

Please note: Additional self-study time outside the classroom will be necessary to prepare for the exam. A limited number of onsite registrations will be accepted, so please pre-register for this course.​

Vicki McIntyre has helped CIA candidates successfully pass their exams for more than ten years, having taught The IIA's CIA Learning System extensively. McIntyre is a globally recognized educator and trainer who whas a combination of internal audit, financial management, public accounting, regulatory supervision, and compliance management experience. With more than 20 years in the financial services industry, McIntyre has been a regulatory bank examiner, and a vice president of both finance and risk management. She also performs quality assessments of internal audit activities on behalf of The IIA.​