Elevating Internal Audit: The Seven Pillars of a Next-Gen QAIP

In an era of rapid change, increasing complexity, and heightened expectations, the internal audit function stands at a critical crossroads. It is no longer enough to tick the compliance box — today’s internal audit teams are expected to drive strategic value, build trust, and stay ahead of emerging risks.

At the heart of this transformation lies a powerful tool: the Quality Assurance and Improvement Program (QAIP). With the release of the new Global Internal Audit Standards — especially Principle 12 and Standards 12.1 to 12.3 — the message is clear: Quality isn't an add-on; it's a non-negotiable foundation.

So, how do you build a future-ready QAIP that positions your internal audit function for success? It starts with mastering the seven pillars of a robust QAIP:

1. Continuous Improvement versus Compliance

The best internal audit teams never stand still. Inspired by the Deming Cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act), a strong QAIP embeds a mindset of ongoing improvement.

• Standard 12.2 calls for performance measures that go beyond checklists — they need to reflect meaningful progress.

• Standard 12.3 requires real-time monitoring of engagement quality, not just post-mortem reviews.

This isn’t just about compliance. It’s about evolving to stay relevant in a fast-changing world.

2. Stakeholder Alignment

High-impact Chief Audit Executives (CAEs) listen — to the board, to senior leadership, and to the organisation’s shifting priorities.

• Standard 12.2 emphasises collaborative performance objectives shaped with input from top stakeholders. Embedding feedback into the QAIP ensures that internal audit doesn’t just serve the business — it partners with it.

When internal audit goals match business goals, real value happens.

3. Risk Management & Methodological Rigor

The best CAEs don't leave quality to chance. They use structured, risk-aware methodologies to assess and improve performance.

• Standards 9.3 and 12.1 demand well-documented audit approaches that ensure consistency.

• Standard 12.3 reinforces the need for engagement-level supervision, including reviews of work programs and deliverables.

Robust methodologies aren’t about process for process-sake. They're about reducing administrative drag so auditors can spend more time delivering insight, foresight, and real value to the business.

4. Talent Development & Competency Assurance

A great QAIP is a talent accelerator.

• Principle 3 and Standards 3.1 and 3.2 emphasise building a team that’s not just capable but also continuously improving.

• Standard 12.3 connects the dots between quality feedback and auditor development, turning every engagement into a learning opportunity.

In the knowledge economy, skills are everything — and QAIPs can be powerful tools for building them.

5. Preparation for External Assessments & Transparency

No one likes surprises — especially during an external quality review. That’s where a strong QAIP shines.

• Standard 12.1 links internal assessments to external evaluations (Standard 8.4), helping CAEs demonstrate readiness and excellence.

• Proactive self-assessment builds credibility and protects your function from last-minute scrambling.

Transparency builds trust. Preparation builds confidence.

6. Effective Communication & Accountability

An internal audit function is only as strong as its communication.

• Standards 12.1 and 8.3 require that QAIP results and action plans are clearly communicated to the board and senior management. This transparency fosters mutual accountability and opens the door to more strategic conversations.

Quality becomes everyone’s business when the conversation is open and clear.

7. Maximising Engagement Outcomes

With budgets tight and expectations high, internal audit must deliver more with less.

• Standard 12.3 sets clear expectations for enhancing engagement quality — making sure audits are effective, efficient, and high-impact. This pillar isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about ensuring every audit delivers real value.

When quality drives outcomes, audit becomes indispensable.

In Summary: Quality Is the New Competitive Advantage

Today’s CAEs are more than guardians of compliance — they’re strategic leaders. A well-designed QAIP, aligned with the Global Internal Audit Standards, can transform internal audit from a back-office function into a value-driving powerhouse.

By building on these seven pillars, audit teams can ensure their work is relevant, reliable, and respected — now and into the future.

Sally-Anne Pitt is the Immediate Past-Chair of the Global Board of the IIA, Managing Director of Pitt Group and author of Internal Audit Quality: Developing a Quality Assurance and Improvement Program. She partners with organisations worldwide to elevate the quality and impact of their internal audit function.