Speakers & Sessions

Rajiv Rathod

Rajiv Rathod is a Senior Internal Audit Manager at Fonterra and the 2026 IIA New Zealand Internal Auditor of the Year (Supreme Award) recipient. He brings over 19 years of both New Zealand and International experience across the dairy, manufacturing, banking, construction, retail, and consulting sectors.

Rajiv has built a strong track record partnering with executive leadership and governance forums to enhance assurance, strengthen risk management, and support organisational resilience. He is known for delivering practical, insight-led assurance while building trusted relationships across the business. During his time as Acting General Manager – Internal Audit, he led the function through a period of change, maintaining delivery while evolving how Internal Audit partners with the business.

He is deeply committed to giving back to the profession. Rajiv also serves on the IIA New Zealand Membership Committee and as an Auckland Ambassador, where he supports member engagement, capability development, and mentoring initiatives. He also works closely with universities, speaking with students and academic partners to promote internal audit as a meaningful and rewarding career, and actively contributes to IIA events and the broader audit community.

Rajiv is also a strong advocate for inclusion and belonging. As Chair of Fonterra’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Network, he is passionate about creating environments where people feel valued, supported, and able to do their best work.

Rajiv was appointed to the IIA New Zealand Board in May 2026. He brings a practical, people-focused perspective, a strong connection to members, and a genuine commitment to strengthening and advancing the internal audit profession in New Zealand.

Outside of work, Rajiv enjoys hiking, travelling, and training for Hyrox events, as well as spending time with his family and friends.