Session Descriptions

Future-Proofing Internal Audit: Competencies, Capability, and Competitive Advantage

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

The audit profession is evolving rapidly — and so are the skills required to remain relevant, impactful, and trusted advisors to the business. This session examines the emerging competencies required for future audit roles — including creative thinking, agility, and strategic use of technology and data analytics that elevates effectiveness.

Attendees will gain a strategic method for assessing skill gaps, aligning talent development with the future needs of the profession, and leveraging technology and analytics to elevate audit impact. The session will also explore how early career experiences shape high-performing audit professionals and how intentional development strategies can build stronger, future-ready teams.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Define the critical competencies required to future-proof the internal audit function, including innovative thinking, agility, and evolving technological acumen.
2. Evaluate current team capabilities against future professional demands and implement targeted development strategies to close skill gaps and enhance organizational impact.
3. Build a strategic roadmap for developing emerging technology and data analytics competencies that strengthen long-term audit effectiveness and enterprise value.
4. Design intentional early career experiences and development pathways that accelerate readiness, cultivate