CIA IIA-CIA-Part2 Syllabus Exam Questions Answers

The chief audit executive (CAE) is responsible for the approval of the engagement objectives and scope in internal auditing. While senior management, the head of customer service, and the board of directors may provide input and have interests in the audit engagement, it is ultimately the CAE who has the final authority to approve the objectives and scope. This ensures that the internal audit activity remains independent and that the engagement aligns with the overall audit plan and organizational priorities.

References:

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Standard 2010 - Planning

IIA Standard 2200 - Engagement Planning

Coordinating audit plans with other internal and external assurance providers is critical to ensure coverage and avoid duplication of efforts. According to IIA Practice Advisory 2050-1, sharing high-level information such as objectives, scope, and timing supports effective coordination and minimizes the risk of conflicts of interest, while still maintaining confidentiality. Detailed sharing of risk assessments, planned tests, and past results might breach confidentiality and independence standards.References:

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) - Practice Advisory 2050-1: Coordination of Internal and External Audit Activities

The CAE has a responsibility to communicate significant risks to the board, particularly when the residual risk exceeds the organization's risk appetite. By communicating with the board, the CAE ensures that the highest level of governance is aware of the risk and can make informed decisions about how to address it. Ignoring the risk, assuming responsibility without authority, or only ensuring senior management's acknowledgment without further action would be insufficient and not in line with the CAE’s duties.

References:

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Standards

Internal Audit’s Role in Risk Management

According to the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, the CAE must be kept informed of significant issues and deficiencies that are not addressed by management. Standard 2600 - Communicating the Acceptance of Risks requires the CAE to report any situation where management has accepted a level of risk that may be unacceptable to the organization. If the engagement supervisor learns that agreed-upon remedial actions have not been implemented, the CAE needs to be notified to determine further steps, ensuring that risks are managed appropriately and in alignment with the organization's risk tolerance. This response aligns with the internal audit function's responsibility to follow up on management's corrective actions.References: The IIA's International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, Standard 2600 - Communicating the Acceptance of Risks.