Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Part 1: Business Acumen — Question 222

An organization that outsources much of its internal audit work to an external service provider is planning for an external quality assessment. Which of the following options would accomplish this task and be in conformance with the Standards?

Answer options

• A. External industry associate that performed a similar review for a supplier of the organization.
• B. A team from an independent entity that previously employed the chief audit executive of the organization.
• C. A team under the direction of the organization's chief audit executive with validation by a former manager of the internal audit activity.
• D. The same external service provider because of its competency and experience with the organization.

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Option A is correct because using an external industry associate who has conducted a similar review ensures objectivity and adheres to the Standards. Options B and C are problematic due to potential conflicts of interest and lack of independence. Option D is not appropriate as it involves the same service provider, which could compromise the objectivity of the assessment.