External reviewer audits Internal Audit

UNC Charlotte’s Internal Audit Department did exceptionally well on a recent external Quality Assessment Review (QAR), receiving the highest possible score (Generally Conforms).

Internal Audit received the Generally Conforms rating on each of the 11 specific standards. According to the external reviewer, this is a rare occurrence as most Quality Assessment Reviews reveal at least one area in need of improvement to comply with the standards. The reviewer noted that not only is the University’s Internal Audit Department aware of the Institute of Internal Auditors’ standards, but the staff continuously works to ensure all work conforms to these guidelines.

The Institute of Internal Auditors, the profession’s most widely recognized advocate, educator and provider of standards, guidance and certifications, offers among its guidelines that organizations conduct an external QAR every five years, along with ongoing internal Quality Assessments. A QAR can help the University enhance the effectiveness, quality and value received from Internal Audit, as well as assist in determining whether Internal Audit is meeting University goals and objectives and following IIA standards.

Other notable highlights from the external review report:

• Internal Audit’s efforts to be visible and available on campus have resulted in positive feedback from customers. The reviewer concluded, “The auditors are thought of as professional, accessible, responsive and consciously risk-focused”
• Internal Audit receives a high level of support from senior management

Read the entire report online