Internal Audit | What is internal auditing?

What is internal auditing?

Internal auditing provides independent, objective insight that helps organizations improve how they operate.

By evaluating risk, controls, and governance, internal auditors help organizations achieve their goals, protect value, and build trust.

Mason Ryan
Internal Audit Manager – Privacy
Meta

Internal auditors are strategic advisors, not fault finders

Internal auditors look beyond the numbers. They examine how work gets done and advise leadership on how the organization can operate more effectively and achieve objectives faster.

Why does internal auditing matter?

Internal auditing strengthens an organization’s ability to create, protect, and sustain value. Through independent, risk-based assurance and advisory insight, internal auditors support boards and leadership with trusted perspective.

Without an Internal Auditor, No Parcels

Doug is an internal auditor at UPS, confirming delivery and receipt of every package, everywhere – and that the company is on track.

Thanks, Doug.

Doug Daley
Director of Internal Audit & Compliance & Ethics
UPS

What do internal auditors do?

Internal auditors are trusted advisors who help organizations understand how they operate. They examine processes, interview teams, analyze operations, and ask critical questions. Along the way, they uncover risks, identify inefficiencies, and recommend improvements that support better decision-making.

What are some of the benefits of internal auditing?

Clear visibility into risk
Effective controls and quality standards
Meaningful oversight and assurance
Informed growth and long-term strategy
Confidence that objectives are being met

Without an Internal Auditor, No Baconator®

Melissa is an internal auditor at The Wendy’s Company, making sure that your beef – and everything else – is squared away – and that the company is well-rounded.

Thanks, Melissa.

Melissa Clawson
Chief Audit Executive at The Wendy's Company

Why become an internal auditor?

High Demand

Internal auditors are needed worldwide, especially in complex, risk-heavy industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology.

Earning Potential

Competitive salaries with pathways into leadership, executive, and board-facing roles.

Career Opportunities

Work across industries, from global corporations to nonprofits and government agencies.

Real Impact

Influence decisions, strengthen organizations, and help teams deliver on their mission.

Is internal auditing the right career for you?

If you’re curious, analytical, and motivated to improve how organizations operate, internal auditing may be a strong fit. Questioning how things work — and how they can work better — is the foundation of a career built on insight, trust, and impact.

What skills do internal auditors need?

Internal auditors think critically, analyze complex information, and help others work more effectively. Across industries such as healthcare, financial services, and energy, they apply the Global Internal Audit Standards™ to strengthen performance and build trust.

Learn more about the impact you can make as a high-earning internal auditor

Read "Finding the Missing Piece: Can You Love Your Job and Your Industry?".

Without an Internal Auditor, No Healthcare

Swati is an internal auditor at Blue Shield of California, working hard to provide sustainably affordable healthcare to Californians – and ensuring the company is healthy.

Thanks, Swati.

Swati Sharma
Director, Internal Controls Program Blue Sheild of California

How does The IIA keep internal auditors well-rounded?

WENDY’S and BACONATOR marks used with permission of Quality Is Our Recipe, LLC.