Programme

12.00 pm-12.15 pm

IIA NZ Chief Audit Executives (CAE) Forum 2025: Part 1

Welcome and Opening Remarks: IIA NZ Chair and Master of Ceremonies

Master of Ceremonies: David Sinkins
Panel speakers: David Sinkins, Freddy Beck, David Seath

12.00 PM-1.00 PM

Keynote Presentation

Keynote Speaker: Freddy Beck, Chief Audit Executive, Ipswich City Council, Australia

Session Topic: Leading the Charge: Innovating Internal Audit for Tomorrow’s Challenges

Summary: In a world defined by rapid transformation, internal audit leaders must adapt, innovate, and lead the charge to remain relevant and impactful. Freddy Beck will deliver a dynamic session exploring how Chief Audit Executives can embrace innovation, tackle emerging risks, and redefine internal audit’s role in shaping resilient and forward-thinking organisations.

Key topics include:

- Harnessing technology to drive efficiency and insights in audit processes.

- Proactively addressing emerging risks, including Fraud, Corruption, AI and cybersecurity.

- Building a future-focused internal audit team equipped with the skills of tomorrow.

- Aligning internal audit strategies with global trends and standards.

Freddy will share actionable strategies, inspiring CAEs to lead with confidence and ensure their functions are prepared to thrive in the face of tomorrow’s challenges. This session is designed to spark ideas, foster collaboration, and empower leaders to innovate for success.

Delivered by Freddy Beck, CAE Ipswich City Council, Queensland, Australia, the session will provide insights on the evolving landscape of internal audit, emerging risks, and strategies for driving organisational value.

1.00 pm-1.45 PM

Working Lunch and Networking

An opportunity to connect with peers and build relationships with fellow Chief Audit Executives

1.45 PM-2.45 PM

Keynote Presentation

Keynote Speaker: David Seath, Partner, Deloitte

Session Topic: Behind Closed Doors – Lessons from Internal Audit, Fraud Investigations, and Governance Under Pressure

Drawing on decades of experience in internal audit, fraud, waste, and abuse investigations across the public and private sectors, David Seath shares collective insights into what really challenges governance — and where internal audit can step in to drive accountability and improvement.

This keynote moves beyond a single case study to highlight the recurring patterns, red flags, and leadership dilemmas encountered in complex environments. With practical takeaways for Chief Audit Executives, David will examine the implications of these lessons for governance, culture, and assurance effectiveness.

Key takeaways:

- What CAEs should watch for: early indicators of fraud, control failure, and governance breakdowns

- How internal audit can respond when trust is compromised and systems come under strain

- Strategies for influencing executive leadership and boards without losing independence

- Lessons on judgement, ethics, and accountability from real-world investigations

This session is designed to equip audit leaders with deeper insight into the realities of oversight and the critical role they play in safeguarding public value and organisational integrity.

2.45 pm-3.45 PM

Panel Reflections and Open Forum

Shaping the Future: CAE Insights in Action

This dynamic session brings together a panel of experienced Chief Audit Executives to reflect on the powerful insights shared during the keynote presentations and roundtable discussions. Building on Freddy Beck’s forward-looking keynote and David Seath’s real-world leadership lessons from Wellington Water, panellists will explore how internal auditors can lead with impact, adapt to complexity, and uphold trust in times of change.

Through open dialogue and shared experiences, panellists will provide practical advice, real-world examples, and strategic reflections tailored to the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s internal audit profession.

What to expect:

- Candid reflections on the evolving role of the CAE

- Practical strategies for navigating uncertainty and leading audit teams

- Open Q&A — your opportunity to engage directly with senior leaders

- A local lens on global themes: ensuring relevance, resilience, and innovation

This session is designed to empower attendees to walk away with actionable insights and renewed confidence in their leadership journey.

3.45-4.00 pm

Master of Ceremonies and IIA NZ Board Chair Closing Remarks

Summarising the day’s discussions, highlighting key takeaways, and outlining next steps for the CAE community.

Forum Concludes

This programme is designed to foster meaningful connections, share insights, and equip CAEs with actionable strategies to address the evolving demands of internal audit leadership.

This forum is exclusively for Chief Audit Executives (CAE) who are IIA NZ members.

Attendees of the IIA NZ CAE Forum 2025 must be current Chief Audit Executives (CAEs) or hold equivalent senior positions, possessing extensive experience and professional qualifications such as CIA, CISA, or similar certifications. Alternatively, attendance is open to those who have participated in the IIA NZ Audit Leaders Network Forums.

Each IIA NZ CAE Member who attends the full conference will receive one complimentary IIA NZ CAE Forum ticket.

6.45 pm-7.00 PM

Welcome Address by IIA NZ Chair and IIA NZ CEO

- Reflecting on 40 years of excellence in internal audit in New Zealand.

- Acknowledging milestones, contributions, and the growth of IIA NZ over the decades.

- The IIA pre-recorded video from The IIA President Anthony Pugliese

7.00 pm-7.30 PM

Opening Speaker: The Hon. Scott Simpson

Acknowledging the significance of IIA NZ's 40-year journey.

7.30 pm-8.30 PM

Dinner Service

Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner accompanied by house wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, all set in the stunning Legislative Council Chamber.

8.30 pm-9.45 PM

Reflections Presentation: 40th Anniversary (Russell Third, Life Member)

Award Celebrations

Recognising outstanding contributions to the internal audit profession.

Award Categories:

▪️ ️IIA NZ Internal Auditor of the Year

▪️ IIA NZ Emerging Internal Auditor of the Year

▪️ IIA NZ Team Excellence in Internal Auditing

▪️ IIA NZ Best Contribution to the Profession (IIA NZ Board only nomination)

▪️ IIA NZ Pacific Internal Auditor of the Year

Life and Fellow Presentations:

▪️ Life Member

▪️ Fellow and Honorary Fellow

Networking and Reflections

A chance for attendees to connect, share stories, and reflect on the profession’s progress and future.

9.45 pm-10.00 PM

Closing Remarks

Acknowledgements and gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and supporters.

Invitation to continue engaging with IIA NZ as we move into the next 40 years.

10.00 pm–10.30 pm

A chance to relax and take in the evening’s atmosphere, with 30 minutes set aside to unwind and connect before the night concludes.

10.30 PM

Event Concludes

This special evening will celebrate the achievements of the past, acknowledge the present, and set the stage for a bright and impactful future for the internal audit profession in New Zealand.

8.00 AM-9.00 AM

Registrations Open

- Networking Opportunity
- Coffee Cart - Kickstart your morning with a coffee from the Diligent coffee cart!
- Visit the Exhibition Area

Please be seated at 8.45 am

9.00 am–9.30 am

Mihi Whakatau and Official Opening

- The IIA (Global) videos

- Conference Opening & Welcome: IIA NZ Chair and IIA NZ CEO

9.30 am–10.00 am

The IIA (Global) Keynote Speaker

- IA Vision 2035 video

Opening Keynote Topic: Adapting to the Future: The IIA Internal Audit’s Role in the Decade of Transformation

10.00 am–10.30 am

Morning Tea and Networking

10.30 AM–11.15 AM

Keynote Panel Topic: Shaping the Future of Internal Audit: Anticipating trends, strengthening resilience, and elevating impact in Aotearoa and the Pacific

Keynote Panel Facilitator: IIA NZ Chair

Keynote Panel Members: Kirsten Patterson (KP), Stephen Walker, and Ross Tilly

Session Overview:

As internal audit continues to evolve in response to global disruptions, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements, what does the future hold for the profession in New Zealand? This expert panel will explore the insights from IA Vision 2035, discussing how internal auditors can navigate the next decade with confidence and agility.

The discussion will focus on the critical trends shaping internal audit, including governance expectations, risk oversight, digital transformation, and evolving stakeholder demands. The panel will examine the steps required to strengthen internal audit’s role as a trusted advisor while ensuring organisations remain resilient, ethical, and forward-thinking in an increasingly complex environment.

Key Discussion Points:

▪️ Regulatory and Governance Landscape – How will legislative and governance changes impact internal audit functions in New Zealand?

▪️ Technology & Data-Driven Assurance – What role will AI, automation, and data analytics play in shaping the profession?

▪️ The Next Generation of Internal Auditors – What skills and competencies will be critical for success in 2035?

▪️ Building Stakeholder Trust – How can internal auditors enhance their value proposition to boards and executive leadership?

▪️ Ethics & Integrity in a Changing World – How should internal auditors address emerging ethical challenges and organisational culture shifts?

This session provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders about the future direction of internal audit in New Zealand. Attendees will gain valuable insights into emerging opportunities, key challenges, and practical strategies to future-proof their internal audit functions.

11.15 AM–12 NOON

Opening Keynote Speaker

Keynote Speaker: Sir Brian Roche

Keynote Topic: Governance & Trust in a Changing World – Lessons learned and shared

Sir Brian Roche, Public Service Commissioner, will deliver an insightful keynote on the evolving nature of governance, accountability, and trust within organisations. Drawing on his extensive experience in public service leadership and corporate governance, Sir Brian will explore how internal auditors can reinforce ethical decision-making, strengthen governance frameworks, and build stakeholder trust in an increasingly complex and scrutinised environment.

This session will provide a unique perspective on:

▪️ The intersection of governance, risk, and trust in the public and private sectors

▪️ Lessons from many years of leadership and public service reform

▪️ How internal auditors can influence ethical leadership and strengthen accountability

▪️ The future role of internal audit in maintaining organisational integrity

Join us as Sir Brian Roche reflects on his leadership journey and shares insights that will inspire internal auditors to shape the future of governance in New Zealand and beyond.

12.00 PM–1.00 pm

Lunch and Networking

During the IIA NZ Conference lunch break, we warmly encourage all attendees to connect with our valued sponsors and participate in the two interactive workshops taking place in the foyer and in the plenary room.

1.00 PM–3.00 PM

Bite-Sized Sessions - Strengthening Governance Through Innovation and Resilience

As part of IIA NZ’s 40th Anniversary Conference 2025, the bite-sized sessions will provide practical, high-impact discussions on emerging trends, critical challenges, and the evolving role of internal auditors in strengthening governance while shaping the future.

These sessions will focus on real-world applications, expert insights, and forward-thinking strategies to enhance audit effectiveness in an era of rapid change.

Bite-Sized Sessions Overview: speaker moves, the attendees remain seated.

These sessions will provide attendees with the latest insights, expert-led discussions, and actionable strategies to stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of governance, risk, and assurance.

3.00 PM–3.30 PM

Afternoon Tea and Networking

3.30 PM–4.15 PM

Keynote Speaker: Rose Rehm

Keynote Topic: Strengthening Governance Through Vigilance: The Auditor’s Role in Detecting Foreign Bribery

As the risk of foreign bribery grows alongside global business operations, internal auditors are increasingly expected to act as a frontline defence in detecting and preventing misconduct. In this insightful session, Rose Rehm, Manager of Detection and Prevention at the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), will explore how internal auditors can play a proactive role in safeguarding organisational integrity.

Drawing on her extensive experience in fraud, corruption, and complex investigations, Rose will discuss key detection tools, emerging typologies, and red flags auditors should be aware of. The session will also highlight the strategic importance of whistleblower mechanisms and how auditors can help strengthen governance through ethical foresight and early intervention.

4.15 PM–5.15 PM

Day One Closing Keynote Speaker

Jason Gunn, Broadcaster & Communication Expert

Strong governance, trust, and accountability are built on clear and impactful communication—yet internal auditors often struggle to convey their insights in a way that engages leadership, boards, and stakeholders. In this high-energy and inspiring session, Jason Gunn, a celebrated broadcaster and communication coach, will share how effective storytelling, authenticity, and connection can elevate the impact of internal audit.

Drawing on his decades of experience in media and public speaking, Jason will demonstrate how internal auditors can cut through complexity, influence decision-makers, and create meaningful change—all through the power of compelling communication.

This is not just a keynote—it’s a masterclass in communication, equipping internal auditors with the tools to shape the future of governance through the power of storytelling.

5.15 PM–5.30 PM

Conference Reflections of Day One

IIA NZ Conference 2025 Day One Concludes

Invite everyone to take part in the Sponsors Networking & Quiz Night

6.30 PM–7.30 PM

Now, It's Quiz Time!

8.00 PM

IIA NZ 40th Anniversary Quiz Night Concludes

8.00 am–8.30 am

Registrations Open

- Coffee Cart - Kickstart your morning with a coffee from the Diligent coffee cart!
- Networking Opportunity
- Visit the Exhibition Area

Please be seated at 8.30 am

8.30 AM

Welcome Back & Day Two Overview

8.30 am–9.15 am

Day Two Keynote Opening Panel:

IIA NZ 40th Anniversary Panel: A Journey from Humble Beginnings to National Influence

Panel Facilitator: IIA NZ Chair, or Board Member

Panel IIA NZ Life Members: James Jong, Souella Cumming, Russell Third, and David Sutton

The Institute of Internal Auditors New Zealand (IIA NZ) has come a long way since its inception as a Wellington Chapter in 1972. What began as a small gathering of like-minded professionals in the heart of New Zealand’s capital has grown into a national body that represents the internal audit profession across the entire country.

From those early days, when the focus was on establishing a local network of internal auditors, IIA NZ has evolved into a leading voice in the field here in New Zealand, advocating for best practices, ethical standards, and professional development. Over the years, we have seen our community grow and our influence expand, driven by a shared commitment to enhancing the value and credibility of internal auditing in New Zealand.

As we celebrate our 40th Anniversary, we reflect on where it all started—how a few dedicated individuals laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of the internal audit profession in New Zealand. This journey from a Wellington Chapter to a nationwide organisation when we became a Incorporated Society in 1985 is a testament to the passion, resilience, and vision of our members, past and present.

To mark this milestone, we have brought together some of the most influential figures in IIA NZ’s history for a panel discussion that will explore the significant changes in the profession, the challenges faced, and the achievements that have shaped where we are today.

9.15 am–10.00 am

Keynote Speaker: Clare Payne, EY Fellow for Trust, EY Australia

Session Topic: Ethics and Decision-Making: Navigating Complexities in a Globalised World

In an era defined by disruption, global interconnectivity, and evolving societal expectations, how can organisations and individuals maintain ethical integrity? Clare Payne, a renowned voice on ethics and trust, explores this question through a compelling lens — drawing on her legal background, financial sector experience, and global research. Clare will challenge attendees to ask, ‘Should we?’, rather than ‘Can we?’ She will offer practical insights on navigating reputational risk, stakeholder expectations, and the responsibilities of leadership in an increasingly complex world.

10.00 am–10.30 am

Morning Tea and Networking 

Coffee Cart 
Visit the Exhibition Area

10.30 am–12.30 pm

Interactive Group Offsite Workshops 

Attendees are split into six groups

Session Topic: Mapping the Path to Vision 2035 – Strengthening Internal Audit for the Future

In this interactive session, attendees will explore the top five critical questions that internal auditors must consider to future-proof the profession and strengthen internal audit’s role in governance, risk, and assurance. With rapid advancements in technology, evolving regulatory landscapes, and increasing stakeholder expectations, internal auditors must proactively adapt to ensure they remain key contributors to organisational resilience and success.

Participants will engage in facilitated discussion groups, led by IIA NZ Board Members and industry leaders, to examine practical strategies for navigating the future of internal audit. These discussions will focus on how auditors can embrace innovation, enhance risk foresight, and reinforce trust in their organisations.

At the conclusion of the session, facilitators will present key insights and recommendations back to the full conference audience, ensuring that collective learnings are captured and shared to help shape the future of internal audit in New Zealand and the Pacific.

Learn more

12.30 pm–1.30 pm

Lunch and Networking

During the IIA NZ Conference lunch break, we warmly encourage all attendees to connect with our valued sponsors and participate in the two interactive workshops taking place in the foyer and in the plenary room.

1.30 pm–2.15 pm

The Great Debate 2025

Session Topic: Internal Audit in 2040: Risk Detectives or Strategic Innovators?

Debate Adjudicator: Diligent

As internal auditors navigate the evolving risk landscape, should they focus on traditional risk assurance, or embrace a more strategic, future-focused role? This debate will challenge industry perspectives, sparking a lively discussion on where the profession is heading.

▪️Affirmative: Internal auditors will be strategic innovators, influencing governance, technology, and organisational resilience.

▪️Opposition: Internal auditors will remain risk-focused professionals, ensuring governance, control, and ethical decision-making.

2.15 pm-3.15 PM

Closing Keynote Speaker

Dr Paul Wood

Session Topic: Influence Like the CIA and FBI – The Psychology of Trust, Connection, and Impact

To conclude the IIA NZ 40th Anniversary Conference, we are proud to present Dr Paul Wood, an internationally sought-after speaker whose extraordinary life journey and psychological expertise make him one of New Zealand’s most compelling voices on leadership, influence, and resilience.

In this unique and highly engaging keynote, Paul draws on behavioural insights used by the CIA and FBI to explore how internal auditors can better understand human motivation, build trust, and influence ethically in complex environments.

Through a mix of neuroscience, real-world application, and storytelling, Paul will unpack the universal human drivers that shape decision-making and behaviour — and how auditors can apply this knowledge to enhance their communication, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and influence change.

Key takeaways:

▪️Discover how CIA agents shift perspectives to build trust and connection

▪️Understand what neuroscience reveals about increasing openness and reducing resistance

▪️Learn how the FBI builds rapport in high-stakes environments — and how you can apply the same techniques in audit settings

▪️Walk away with practical tools to enhance your ability to influence and lead with integrity

This closing session promises to be thought-provoking, energising, and deeply relevant — a powerful finale to our celebration of 40 years of excellence in internal auditing.

IIA NZ Chair's Closing Remarks

IIA NZ 40th Anniversary Conference 2025 Concludes.