Inside the Auditorium

Inside the Auditorium podcast is back for a third season, shining a spotlight on big names and influencers within the internal audit industry, delving into their passion for the role and what makes their teams and organisations extraordinary places to work.  

My first guest of the season is Paul Day, Group Head of Internal Audit at Standard Chartered Bank. Paul’s extensive experience in external and internal audit gives him a unique perspective on what it takes to build extraordinary teams and drive impactful outcomes. 

In this episode, we explore:  

• Technology and communication skills: Explore why staying ahead in technology and mastering communication are critical for the future of internal audit. 
• Empowerment and innovation: Paul shares how empowered teams foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration—and why celebrating successes (and even failures) is vital. 
• Being a learn-it-all, not a know-it-all: Hear why continuous learning and developing niche expertise can propel your career while making you a more balanced leader. 
• Building relationships and trust: Discover how transparent communication and strong stakeholder relationships pave the way for effective collaboration—even when delivering tough messages. 
• The power of audit to make a difference: Find out what motivates Paul and his team to drive positive change within their organisation every day 

Don’t miss this conversation packed with key takeaways and insights that will showcase the power of teamwork and the impact internal audit and innovation can have.  

Note: The views expressed by Paul are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of his employer. 

In episode ten of Inside the Auditorium, I speak to Sally Gaudion, Chief Internal Audit Officer at Nottingham Building Society, and we discuss her career journey, the importance of embracing change and taking on new opportunities and being a role model to others.  

This episode explores: 

• The power of supportive employers: Sally emphasises the importance of having supportive employers, and how a trusting work environment is crucial for mothers returning to work after parental leave. 
• Being a role model: Reflecting on her journey, Sally highlights the significance of being a role model for others. Whether by intention or accident, she stresses the importance of challenging perceived limitations and striving for excellence, paving the way for future generations of female leaders in audit. 
• Adapting and managing change: Sally reinforces the importance of embracing change and viewing it as an opportunity for growth. Whether it's organisational shifts or personal transitions, she advocates for a positive approach to change, highlighting its transformative impact on individuals, teams, and organisations. 

Don’t miss this episode as Sally shares her journey, practical advice, and insights on building a successful career in internal audit. 

Note: The views expressed by Sally are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

On the ninth episode of Inside the Auditorium, I speak to Janette Taylor, Head of Professional Practices - Internal Audit at Santander UK, and we discuss her journey from retail banking into internal audit roles, the purpose of professional practices in a bank and the skills required for the role, as well as advice for women within the profession. 

This episode explores:  

• Passion for internal audit: Janette shares what’s kept her in internal audit and her true passion for the industry. She emphasises the privilege of gaining deep insights into diverse aspects of business operations, a perspective unique to auditors. 
• The value of professional practices: Professional practices in a bank involve developing audit methodology, providing training and support to auditors, and ensuring that auditors deliver the right level of quality assurance.  
• Giving back to the audit community: As a member of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors and the banking and financial services sector advisory panel, Janette discusses giving back to the audit community through volunteering opportunities including feedback advice, training, engaging in valuable networking, to name just a few. 

Don’t miss this episode, as it promises to inspire and empower internal audit professionals, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the industry. 

Note: The views expressed by Janette are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

Dive deep into the world of audit with an inspiring leader in our newest episode of Inside the Auditorium featuring Gabby Beaver, Chief Auditor for Quality Assurance at Citi.  

This episode explores:  

• Continuous learning and evolution: Gabby emphasises the importance of embracing a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation, drawing from her own experience of starting her career in technology. She reminds us that no one knows everything from day one; it's through investing in learning, both through formal education and on-the-job experiences, that we build our skill sets and advance in our careers. 
• Setting a strong vision: Discussing effective leadership, Gabby stresses the significance of setting a strong vision for your organisation and aligning the entire team behind it. In today's rapidly changing world, adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to customers, clients, and employees are essential for success.  
• The value of quality assurance: Gabby sheds light on the forward-looking nature of audit roles. It's not just about assessing the present; it's about anticipating future risks and ensuring organisational resilience. Quality assurance isn't just a role—it's a mindset. Gabby's insights shed light on the valuable skill set involved in quality assurance roles, offering a breadth and depth of exposure that facilitates learning and growth. 

Don't miss out on this enriching conversation with Gabby as she shares her wealth of knowledge and experience in the audit profession. 

Enjoy! 

Note: The views expressed by Gabby are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

In episode seven we discuss innovation and technology in internal audit with our next guest Alex Gibbons, Head of Internal Audit at HSBC Innovation Banking. We discuss being at the forefront of regulation and innovation and the role of internal audit in facilitating change and improvement within organisations. 

This episode explores: 

• Market outlook for innovation: Alex shares valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, cyber, and information security. With a focus on governance and regulation, she sheds light on the importance of staying ahead in these critical areas. 
• The role of an audit professional: Discover why being in internal audit is akin to being a VIP with access to all areas of an organisation. Alex emphasises the role of audit professionals as catalysts for change, facilitators for solutions, and key stakeholders in driving organisational success. 
• Building impactful teams and strategies: Learn from Alex's experience in founding and leading teams, navigating challenges, and driving impactful strategies. She highlights the dynamic nature of internal audit and the creative opportunities it presents for making a real difference in the business landscape. 

Enjoy!  

Note: The views expressed by Alex are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

In episode six of Inside the Auditorium, I welcome Emilia Antevska, Quality Assurance Lead at Northern Trust. We discuss Emilia’s personal experiences of being a woman in audit and navigating her career from Macedonia to the UK. 

This episode explores: 

• Empowering leadership: Emilia highlights the importance of putting teams first and fostering a culture of growth and accountability. She emphasises that every auditor is a leader in their own right, making impactful contributions through their interactions with stakeholders and observations. 
• Attracting women to audit: Emilia discusses strategies to attract more women, especially those from tech backgrounds, into the field of auditing. By shedding light on the diverse opportunities and continuous learning experiences that auditing offers, she aims to encourage more women to consider this profession. 
• The value of auditing: Gain an insight into Emilia’s genuine love for auditing and the satisfaction she derives from helping businesses better manage their risks and achieve their objectives. Her passion for adding value to organisations underscores the significance of auditing in today's business landscape. 

Don't miss this episode packed full of key insights from Emilia's wealth of experience in the world of audit. 

Enjoy!  

Note: The views expressed by Emilia are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

Prepare to be inspired by our upcoming episode of Inside the Auditorium Podcast featuring Brooke Yang, Head of Audit - Models, at Lloyd's Banking Group. Join us as Brooke shares invaluable insights into the world of internal audit, with a focus on empowering women and attracting diverse talent to the profession.  

• Breaking Barriers: Brooke Yang discusses why internal audit is a prime area for women to build their careers. She highlights essential skills such as attention to detail, empathy, and effective communication that are often associated with women. Explore how internal audit offers a supportive environment with greater representation of women in senior leadership, providing a clear pathway for career progression. 
• Attracting and Retaining Female Talent: Discover strategies for attracting and retaining women and younger females in internal audit. Brooke emphasizes the importance of flexible working arrangements to accommodate personal circumstances. She also discusses the significance of diverse representation in leadership, effective network programs, and access to mentors to help women overcome hurdles and enhance their skills and confidence. 
• Navigating Model Risk in Internal Audit: Explore the complexities of model risk within internal audit with Brooke Yang. Gain insights into the qualifications and skills required for roles in model risk auditing. Understand the importance of a diverse skill set, including technical expertise in model development and validation, along with soft skills such as communication and stakeholder management. 

Don't miss this enlightening episode featuring Brooke Yang! Subscribe to Inside the Auditorium Podcast now to stay informed and inspired in the world of internal audit.  

Note: The views expressed by Brooke are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

We delve deep into the realm of audit in the fourth episode of ‘Inside the Auditorium’ with our next guest, Karen Connell, Chief Audit Officer for PaySafe. We discuss how internal audit offers opportunities for career growth and variety, the importance of bringing your full self to work, and transferable skills across internal audit functions. Karen also provides advice for women looking to build their careers in internal audit and discusses the future of remote work.  

This episode explores:  

• Empowering women in audit: Karen advocates for returners programs and the immense value they provide to organisations and the wealth of transferable skills that individuals bring to the table. 
• Embrace your authenticity: In a world where authenticity is key, Karen encourages professionals to bring their whole selves to work, sharing the importance of being genuine, passionate, and motivated.  
• The value of transferable skills: Karen sheds light on the transferable skills required to navigate different areas of audit. She highlights the need to get to know the nuts and bolts of an organisation and understanding where risks are and apply those skills you already have. 

Don’t miss out on Karen’s wealth of knowledge, guidance, and expert insights that will help elevate your career in the ever-evolving landscape of internal audit. 

Enjoy!  

Note: The views expressed by Karen are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

In the third episode of ‘Inside the Auditorium’, I’m joined by Ruchi Saggar, Managing Director, Global Head of Audit, Commodities and Global Markets at Macquarie. We delve into the multifaceted nature of internal audit, the visibility of senior female leaders in the profession, as well as building awareness to attract talent and shape the future of auditing. 

This episode explores:  

• Diverse skill sets in internal audit: Ruchi highlights the multifaceted nature of internal audit, emphasising that it provides not only technical skills but also essential soft skills like negotiation, stakeholder management, and risk identification. These skills are transferable across various industries, offering rich opportunities for career growth and diversification. 
• Visibility of senior female leaders: There’s been a positive trend towards increased visibility of senior female leaders in recent years. This visibility not only inspires aspiring professionals but also fosters empathy and understanding within management and the business, particularly regarding work-life balance and family dynamics. 
• Building awareness and talent pipeline within internal audit: Ruchi emphasises the importance of raising awareness about internal audit among students and graduates. Initiatives such as recruitment fairs, university outreach, internships, and graduate programs play a crucial role in attracting talent to the field and nurturing the next generation of auditors. 

Don't miss out on this valuable discussion that offers insights into the evolving landscape of internal audit and the pivotal role of women within the industry. 

Enjoy!  

Note: The views expressed by Ruchi are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer. 

We’re focused on empowering diversity inside the world of internal audit in the second episode of ‘Inside the Auditorium’.  

I’m joined by Sandy Balasubramanian, Audit Director within technology for Bank of New York Mellon. She discusses her move from India to the UK and cultural challenges, as well as her biggest achievements being a woman in technology audit in a senior position. 

This episode explores:  

• Operational resiliency: Sandy sheds a light on key technology risks and the critical importance of operational resiliency in today's landscape and emphasises the significance of having robust controls in place to ensure business continuity post-attack. 
• Diversity in Audit: Addressing the issue of diversity in audit, Sandy talks about the underrepresentation of women in technology audit roles. She shares insights into efforts made by her team to break stereotypes and encourage more women to pursue careers in audit, especially in technology. 
• Career advancement in internal audit: Sandy passionately advocates for internal audit as an ideal career path, highlighting its unique position to provide a comprehensive understanding of the entire organisation and the invaluable learning and growth opportunities available.  

Don't miss out on this enriching conversation that offers valuable insights and inspiration for all internal audit professionals, especially those wanting to advance their careers.  

Enjoy! 

Note: The views expressed by Sandy are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer.