Strengthening connections between internal audit professionals and raising awareness of the value of independent assurance across Northamptonshire will be at the heart of Rebecca Dyson’s new regional role.

Rebecca, co-founder of Northampton based Tickbox, has joined the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors’ Midlands Committee.

The Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors, commonly known as the Chartered IIA, is the professional body for internal auditors in the UK and Ireland. Its regional committees are supported by volunteers who give their time to help professionals connect, share knowledge and access development opportunities.

The IIA Midlands Committee covers a wide geographical area, including Northamptonshire. Through her involvement, Rebecca hopes to help strengthen links between internal audit and assurance professionals working across the county and the wider regional network.

Rebecca said:

“I am delighted to have joined the IIA Midlands Committee and to have the opportunity to contribute to the profession more widely.

“There are internal auditors and assurance professionals working across businesses, public services and other organisations throughout Northamptonshire, but opportunities to connect locally can sometimes be limited.

“I would like people working in these roles across the county to know that there is a link into the wider Midlands network and someone locally they can approach if they would like to connect or become more involved.”

For organisations without an established internal audit function, its purpose may not always be widely understood. Internal audit extends far beyond checking financial transactions or confirming that procedures have been followed.

Internal auditors provide independent and objective assurance about how effectively an organisation is governed, how its most important risks are being managed and whether the controls relied upon by senior leaders are working as intended.

This can help boards and management identify opportunities for improvement, make better-informed decisions and respond more effectively to emerging risks and changing circumstances.

Rebecca continued:

“I also hope to help raise awareness of the value that internal audit and independent assurance can bring to organisations across Northamptonshire.

“Internal audit is not simply about checking compliance or finding fault. At its best, it helps organisations understand whether their governance, risk management and controls are genuinely supporting what they are trying to achieve.”

Rebecca will contribute her time and experience to the committee’s work supporting the internal audit profession across the Midlands.

She welcomes contact from internal audit and assurance professionals across Northamptonshire who would like to connect with others in the profession or find out more about the regional network.