Multi-client internal audit providers
Independent assurance tailored to the unique challenges of multi-client internal audit functions
Multi-client internal audit providers work across different organisations, sectors and regulatory environments. This creates unique challenges in maintaining consistent audit quality, auditor independence and compliance with the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS).
The Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors is uniquely placed to carry out EQAs for multi-client providers. Our experienced assessors understand both in-house and outsourced audit models and provide independent, practical recommendations to support continuous improvement.
Explore the benefits below, or contact our team to discuss your requirements.
Why an EQA is important
The Global Internal Audit Standards require Chief Audit Executives to develop and maintain a Quality Assurance and Improvement Programme (QAIP), including periodic external assessments conducted by a qualified and independent assessor or assessment team.
For multi-client providers, this requirement presents specific considerations that extend beyond traditional internal audit functions.
- Maintaining consistent methodologies across multiple client engagements.
- Demonstrating conformance across diverse sectors and regulatory environments.
- Managing auditor independence and objectivity.
- Ensuring appropriate supervision and quality review processes.
- Applying specialist knowledge and resources effectively.
- Embedding continuous professional development across large audit teams.
- Responding consistently to Topical Requirements and emerging risks.
- Evidencing value, impact and client satisfaction.
Our EQAs are designed specifically to assess these complexities and provide practical insights into how your internal audit activity compares with leading practice.
We support you by
Assessing conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards
Our methodology is aligned with the latest Global Internal Audit Standards and assesses conformance across all domains of the Standards.
Ethics and Professionalism
We review how professional integrity, objectivity, competency and due professional care are embedded throughout the organisation.
Governing the Internal Audit Function
We assess governance arrangements, reporting structures, oversight mechanisms and stakeholder engagement.
Managing the Internal Audit Function
We evaluate quality management processes, resource planning, methodology development, performance measurement and continuous improvement arrangements.
Performing Internal Audit Services
We review engagement planning, delivery, reporting and follow-up activities across a representative sample of client assignments.
Reviewing compliance with the Essential Conditions
The introduction of the Essential Conditions within the Global Internal Audit Standards has increased expectations for boards, audit committees and senior management. For multi-client providers, demonstrating compliance can be particularly challenging because responsibilities are shared between the provider and individual client organisations.
Shared Responsibilities
We assess how the provider supports client boards, audit committees and senior management in meeting their responsibilities.
Governance and Engagement Terms
We review how internal audit expectations, reporting lines, escalation routes and quality arrangements are defined and communicated.
Independence and Escalation
We consider whether the provider maintains independence from operational management and appropriately escalates issues that may affect conformance.
Evaluating readiness for Topical Requirements
The Global Internal Audit Standards require internal audit functions to consider and, where relevant, address mandatory Topical Requirements. For multi-client providers, maintaining a consistent approach across a diverse client portfolio can be challenging.
Cybersecurity and technology risk
We assess whether methodologies, tools and guidance support consistent consideration of cybersecurity and technology risks.
Third-Party and supply chain risk
We review how methodologies address outsourcing, supplier and partner risk across different client environments.
Governance, culture and emerging risk
We assess how guidance, methodologies and audit approaches are updated to reflect emerging risks and new Topical Requirements.
What you will receive
- An independent assessment of conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards
- Evaluation of governance and quality arrangements
- Assessment of alignment with Essential Conditions
- Review of readiness for applicable Topical Requirements
- Identification of strengths and leading practices
- Practical recommendations for improvement
- A formal EQA opinion and report suitable for sharing with boards, clients and regulators where appropriate