Speakers & Sessions

Day Two: Thursday 6 November
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.

Key Discussion Questions:

1. How can internal auditors adapt to the evolving risk landscape and regulatory changes to remain effective in 2035?

Identifying key regulatory shifts and their impact on internal audit
Strategies for staying ahead of emerging compliance requirements

2. What role will technology, AI, and data analytics play in shaping the future of internal audit, and how can auditors leverage these tools effectively?

Balancing automation with human oversight in assurance functions
Addressing ethical considerations in AI-driven audit processes

3. How can internal audit strengthen its role as a trusted advisor in governance, decision-making, and organisational strategy?

Moving beyond traditional assurance to influence business resilience
Enhancing collaboration with stakeholders to drive value

4. What are the key skills and competencies that internal auditors need to develop to thrive in 2035?

Upskilling and continuous learning to keep pace with industry demands
Cultivating adaptability, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership

5. How can internal auditors foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and trust within organisations?

Strengthening ethical frameworks and preventing integrity risks
Embedding internal audit within organisational culture to promote long-term success

Session Outcomes:

Strategic Insights – Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the evolving expectations and challenges facing internal auditors in 2035.
Practical Roadmap – Facilitators will consolidate key discussion points into actionable strategies that internal auditors can implement in their organisations.
Collaborative Learning – Groups will exchange experiences, best practices, and perspectives, fostering a collective approach to strengthening internal audit.
Future-Focused Mindset – Attendees will leave with a proactive outlook on shaping the internal audit profession to meet the demands of tomorrow’s business landscape.
Shared Takeaways – Facilitators will present a summary of group discussions to the wider conference audience, ensuring key insights are captured and shared to help define the future of internal audit in New Zealand and the Pacific.