Training course on Governance Audit

Training course on Governance Audit

Introduction:

In today's dynamic and increasingly regulated business environment, robust Governance Audit is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity for sustained success and stakeholder confidence. This comprehensive training course on Governance Audit equips individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills to effectively assess, improve, and maintain strong governance frameworks. By understanding the principles of good governance, mastering audit methodologies, and leveraging key risk management techniques, participants will become invaluable assets in ensuring compliance, enhancing organizational effectiveness, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. This course delves into the latest trends and best practices in corporate governance, risk assessment, and internal controls, providing practical insights that can be immediately applied to drive meaningful improvements within any organization.

This intensive program is designed to empower participants with a deep understanding of the entire governance audit lifecycle, from planning and execution to reporting and follow-up. Through expert-led sessions, interactive case studies, and practical exercises, learners will gain hands-on experience in identifying governance gaps, evaluating the effectiveness of controls, and recommending actionable solutions. The curriculum incorporates trending keywords such as ESG governance, data governance, cybersecurity governance, and regulatory compliance, ensuring participants are equipped with the most relevant and in-demand skills in the field. Upon completion, individuals will be well-prepared to lead and contribute to effective governance audit functions, ultimately contributing to enhanced organizational resilience and long-term value creation.

 Course Duration

10 days

Course Objectives

Understand the fundamental principles and frameworks of Corporate Governance.

1. Master the process of planning and scoping a comprehensive Governance Audit.
2. Develop proficiency in conducting Risk Assessments within a governance context.
3. Learn to evaluate the effectiveness of Internal Controls and compliance mechanisms.
4. Gain expertise in auditing specific areas like Financial Governance and Operational Governance.
5. Explore the growing importance of IT Governance and Cybersecurity Audit.
6. Understand the principles of Data Governance and Privacy Compliance.
7. Learn how to audit ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors.
8. Develop skills in preparing clear and impactful Governance Audit Reports.
9. Understand the process of follow-up and implementation of Audit Recommendations.
10. Explore the role of Governance Audit in promoting Ethical Conduct and preventing fraud.
11. Learn about the latest trends and regulations in Regulatory Compliance.
12. Develop effective communication and stakeholder management skills for Governance Auditors.

Organizational Benefits:

• Improved corporate governance practices and frameworks.
• Enhanced risk management capabilities and mitigation strategies.
• Strengthened internal controls and compliance with regulations.
• Increased transparency and accountability across the organization.
• Better alignment of organizational activities with strategic objectives.
• Enhanced stakeholder confidence and trust.
• Reduced instances of fraud, errors, and non-compliance.
• Improved overall organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

Target Participants

1. Internal Auditors
2. Compliance Officers
3. Risk Managers
4. Governance Professionals
5. Senior Management
6. Board Members and Directors
7. External Auditors seeking to expand their expertise
8. Individuals aspiring to build a career in Governance and Audit

Course Outline:

Module 1: Foundations of Governance and Audit

• Defining Governance and its key pillars.
• Understanding the role and importance of Audit.
• Exploring different types of audits (internal, external, governance).
• Key Governance frameworks and standards (e.g., COSO, King IV).
• The relationship between Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC).

Module 2: Planning and Scoping the Governance Audit

• Defining the objectives and scope of the audit.
• Understanding the organizational context and industry regulations.
• Developing the audit plan and methodology.
• Identifying key stakeholders and their expectations.
• Assessing inherent risks and materiality.

Module 3: Risk Assessment in Governance Audit

• Principles and frameworks of risk assessment.
• Identifying and categorizing governance-related risks.
• Methods for assessing the likelihood and impact of risks.
• Developing risk maps and risk registers.
• Integrating risk assessment into the audit process.

Module 4: Evaluating Internal Controls

• Understanding the components of internal control (COSO framework).
• Documenting and evaluating the design of controls.
• Testing the operating effectiveness of controls.
• Identifying control weaknesses and gaps.
• Assessing the overall control environment.

Module 5: Auditing Financial Governance

• Principles of financial accountability and transparency.
• Auditing financial reporting processes and controls.
• Reviewing budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Assessing the effectiveness of the finance function.
• Compliance with financial regulations and standards.

Module 6: Auditing Operational Governance

• Evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of operations.
• Auditing key operational processes and workflows.
• Assessing resource management and utilization.
• Reviewing performance management systems.
• Identifying opportunities for operational improvement.

Module 7: IT Governance and Cybersecurity Audit

• Principles of IT governance and management.
• Auditing IT infrastructure, systems, and applications.
• Assessing cybersecurity risks and controls.
• Reviewing data security and privacy practices.
• Compliance with IT-related regulations and standards.

Module 8: Data Governance and Privacy Compliance

• Understanding the principles of data governance.
• Auditing data quality, integrity, and security.
• Reviewing data lifecycle management processes.
• Assessing compliance with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
• Implementing data governance frameworks and policies.

Module 9: Auditing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Factors

• The importance of ESG in modern governance.
• Auditing environmental sustainability practices.
• Reviewing social responsibility initiatives.
• Assessing the integration of ESG into corporate strategy.
• Reporting and disclosure of ESG performance.

Module 10: Conducting the Governance Audit: Evidence Gathering

• Various techniques for gathering audit evidence.
• Planning and conducting interviews and surveys.
• Performing document reviews and analysis.
• Utilizing data analytics in the audit process.
• Ensuring the sufficiency and appropriateness of evidence.

Module 11: Documenting Audit Findings and Developing Recommendations

• Principles of effective audit documentation.
• Structuring and writing clear and concise audit findings.
• Developing practical and actionable recommendations.
• Ensuring recommendations are aligned with audit objectives.
• Obtaining management responses to audit findings.

Module 12: Preparing and Presenting the Governance Audit Report

• Key elements of a comprehensive audit report.
• Summarizing audit findings and conclusions.
• Communicating the impact of audit findings.
• Presenting the audit report to relevant stakeholders.
• Facilitating discussions and gaining agreement on recommendations.

Module 13: Follow-up and Implementation of Audit Recommendations

• Establishing a process for monitoring the implementation of recommendations.
• Verifying the effectiveness of implemented actions.
• Addressing any challenges or delays in implementation.
• Reporting on the status of recommendation implementation.
• Closing out audit findings and recommendations.

Module 14: Ethics, Professionalism, and Stakeholder Management

• Ethical principles for governance auditors.
• Maintaining independence and objectivity.
• Developing strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Managing relationships with auditees and stakeholders.
• Understanding the legal and regulatory environment for auditors.

Module 15: Continuous Improvement and Emerging Trends in Governance Audit

• The importance of continuous professional development.
• Staying updated on emerging trends and best practices.
• Leveraging technology and innovation in governance audit.
• Exploring advanced audit techniques and methodologies.
• Building a successful career in Governance Audit.

Training Methodology:

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

·         Interactive lectures and presentations.

·         Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.

·         Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.

·         Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.

·         Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.

·         Peer-to-peer learning and networking.

·         Expert-led Q&A sessions.

·         Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

 

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.