The 6th Annual Chicago Audit Executives Roundtable shed light on challenges and opportunities within the internal audit function in organizations, focusing on activities, technology, support and staffing. It opened with updates on DePaul’s Internal Audit Education Program (IAEP), followed by the Midwest Internal Audit student networking fair. DePaul faculty members also presented their research on trending issues in the internal audit profession, with group discussions that allowed participants to engage more deeply in topics such as strategic planning for internal audit in today’s environment.
Yulia Gurman, chief audit executive at Packaging Corporation of America, reflected on the value of the annual event. “The roundtables offer a unique opportunity for chief audit executives to discuss common concerns and challenges, share lessons learned, brainstorm best practices, network with peers and encourage interests and advancements towards the profession,” she says. “I have personally learned a lot during these events and expanded my professional network significantly.”
The CAE Roundtable concluded with a panel on career goals and planning, focusing on advice for entry-level professionals and prospective internal auditors. Panelists answered questions on personal branding, professional adaptability and networking.
“I’m grateful for the excellent relationship IAEP have with the Chicago Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors. Many of them are active members of the DePaul IAEP advisory board,” Professor of Accountancy Sandra Shelton said after the event. Shelton led the event with School Director Ray Whittington and Clinical Professor of Accountancy Richard Anderson.
The Institute of Internal Auditors Chicago Chapter, established in 1943, prides itself on being the internal audit profession’s recognized leader and principal educator. It generously supports scholarship funding at DePaul, awarding five scholarships to qualified students interested in internal auditing each year.
By Shameer Riaz