The IIA’s Global Assembly in Toronto successfully brought together Institutes from across the world under the inspiring theme “Where It All Comes Together”. The event emphasized networking, cross-Institute collaboration, and collective reflection on the future of the internal audit profession.
Global Strategy and Governance
The IIA has now reached 265,000 members and 200,000 CIAs worldwide, with 85% of National Institutes aligning their strategies to IIA Global priorities in learning, membership, and advocacy.
- Institutes confirmed the importance of using the IIA Global Strategic Plan as a foundation, while adapting it to local realities.
- An update of the Master Relationship Agreement (MRA) is underway to reflect modern governance and compliance standards. All 117 Institutes will be invited to provide input.
- A new Disciplinary and Oversight Framework is being developed to strengthen integrity and consistency across the profession.
One Profession, One IIA
The IIA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting auditors at every stage of their journey, from students to senior leaders.
- 59% of Institutes now have partnerships with universities, and 84 Institutes offer free student memberships.
- More than 3,000 global volunteers and hundreds of mentoring relationships are contributing to talent development and professional solidarity.
Standards and Professional Practice
The new Global Internal Audit Standards came into effect in January 2025.
- The Cybersecurity Topical Requirement has been published, while additional requirements on Third-Party Risk and Organisational Behaviour are in progress.
- New Competency Frameworks and Portfolio Integration Guides (notably in cybersecurity and fraud) are already live, with Institutes encouraged to provide feedback and collaborate in their development.
Future Readiness and Emerging Risks
The Assembly highlighted how internal auditors must anticipate and adapt to emerging challenges:
- ERM responsibilities now concern over 70% of auditors, raising questions about independence and positioning.
- Artificial Intelligence is transforming audit practices, presenting opportunities but also ethical considerations.
- Sustainability is increasingly recognised as a strategic imperative, requiring integration into organisational culture rather than being treated as compliance alone.
Institute Collaboration and Recognition
Institutes exchanged practical solutions for governance, revenue diversification, and innovation. Key highlights included:
- Strategies for small and midsized Institutes to streamline leadership and succession planning.
- The International Chapter Program, sharing approaches to revenue generation and operational efficiency.
- Recognition of Institutes for their leadership, innovation, collaboration, and DE&I initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The Assembly concluded with a strong and shared message: our profession’s strength lies in collaboration, continuous adaptation, and investment in future talent. Institutes are encouraged to:
- Apply Assembly learnings to their own strategic and operational plans.
- Engage actively in upcoming global initiatives such as the MRA update, D&O Framework, and new Topical Requirements.
- Invest in leadership pipelines, with a clear focus on diversity and inclusion.