The Performance Program for Today’s Risk-based Internal Audit Manager
Command is a 16-hour leadership development program that builds Internal Audit Managers to lead with execution, influence, and results — while managing audit work and expectations.
9 instructor-led presentations on the foundational aspects and "how-to" of internal audit manager responsibilities.
6 workshop sessions and roundtable discussions with your cohort group.
A blend of technical instruction, key stakeholder perspectives, and leadership development.
The opportunity to develop long- lasting relationships with other forward-thinking and high performing audit managers.
15 NASBA certified CPE credits.
The COMMAND Program Classes and Leaders
Register For CommandThe Front Line Audit Manager - The Hardest Job in Internal Audit
Description
This introductory session will introduce cohort members to the COMMAND Program and offer guidance on how to maximize the learning experience. Participants will explore the current landscape of Internal Audit, including common pain points experienced by audit managers related to project execution, team leadership, and strategic alignment. The session will also review key benchmark results from the Internal Audit Collective’s first Audit and SOX benchmarking project to highlight evolving trends and expectations for internal audit teams.
Learning Objectives
Introduction to the COMMAND Program for Internal Audit Managers.
Identify key challenges and expectations facing modern internal audit managers.
Review and interpret benchmark data from the Internal Audit Collective’s Audit and SOX survey.
Understand how to approach the course with focused intent and documented goals.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
Planning an Audit from Scratch
Description
This session will provide a step-by-step guide for planning an internal audit project that has never been completed before. Participants will learn how to develop a risk-based audit scope, identify relevant risks, and create meaningful audit objectives in partnership with management. The session will emphasize iterative planning, qualitative and quantitative inputs, and techniques for aligning scope with enterprise risk priorities.
Learning Objectives
Apply an iterative approach to planning non-routine audits.
Identify key stakeholders and information sources for initial scoping conversations.
Develop audit objectives and scope that align with enterprise risk priorities.
Create a framework for continuous feedback and refinement during the audit planning process.
Max Hausmann is an Internal Audit Senior Manager at Accenture with 12 years of external and internal audit experience. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a Master of Accountancy degree and getting his CPA license, he joined Ernst & Young’s Assurance practice in Chicago working primarily in the Life Sciences industry.
He’s spent the last 9 years with Accenture working and managing teams in both North and South America. He enjoys the fast-paced, innovation-driven culture of Accenture which presents not only extensive challenges but also numerous opportunities to drive valuable change using new and emerging technologies. Max is passionate about creating a positive work environment focused on collaborative teamwork and trust.
Outside of work, Max enjoys spending as much time as he can with his friends and family, playing any sports his broken knees can still handle, and traveling as often and as far away from home as possible.
Additional Details
Building an Audit Program with a Blank Sheet of Paper
Description
In this interactive session, participants will put planning into action by drafting a complete audit program for a non-routine audit from a blank sheet of paper. Drawing on prior sessions, attendees will collaborate and apply audit scoping techniques, risk assessments, and work step development to create a custom audit program designed to meet the organization’s unique risks and audit objectives.
Learning Objectives
Translate a risk-based audit scope into actionable audit work steps.
Draft an audit program tailored to a specific audit objective or risk area.
Incorporate management feedback and organizational context into program design.
Demonstrate the ability to initiate and structure a non-template audit project.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
How to Better Leverage Data in an Audit Project
Description
This session will explore how internal audit managers can better leverage organizational data to improve audit planning, execution and insights. Participants will learn how to assess the data landscape, identify useful data sources, collaborate with data owners, and apply basic data techniques to enhance planning, fieldwork, and reporting phases.
Learning Objectives
Understand the audit-relevant components of an organization’s data ecosystem.
Identify data sources that can support audit objectives and test procedures.
Collaborate with data owners and SMEs to ensure access and accuracy.
Apply foundational data analysis techniques to improve audit efficiency and insights.
Tom Buoni is the Data Analytics Audit Director at MassMutual, where he leads a team of data analytics audit consultants within the Internal Audit department. With over 12 years of experience spanning operations, compliance, and audit across the insurance industry, Tom brings a strategic and data-driven perspective and is passionate about training others to develop their data and technical skills.
He is responsible for executing the data analytics components of the annual audit plan, delivering insights through management and board reporting, and advancing the department’s capabilities in data analytics and artificial intelligence.
Tom is a CIA, CISA, and holds an MBA from Villanova University with specializations in Strategic Management and Analytics.
Additional Details
Facilitated Discussion – Leveraging Data in Audit Projects
Description
This interactive session will bring cohort members together to discuss lessons learned and approaches for integrating data into audit work. Participants will share successes and challenges related to their organization’s data ecosystem, opportunities for stronger collaboration with data owners, and how data was—or could have been—used to improve specific audits. The facilitator will guide discussion around practical takeaways and cross-industry examples shared by the group.
Learning Objectives
Compare and contrast how internal audit teams access and use data across different organizations.
Identify common barriers to using data effectively in audits and strategies to overcome them.
Share real-world experiences and lessons learned from audit projects involving data.
Extract practical insights and peer recommendations for future audit projects.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
Contemporary Considerations for Managing and Testing ITGCs
Description
This session provides Internal Audit Managers with a structured approach to leading audit fieldwork—from purposeful test execution to clear observation development. Participants will learn to coach teams through testing design, implementation, and operating effectiveness of controls, with a focus on evidence quality and critical thinking.
The session also introduces practical tools for issue evaluation, root cause analysis, and observation drafting that align with audit objectives and stakeholder expectations.
Learning Objectives
Distinguish between testing control design, implementation, and operating effectiveness.
Apply coaching techniques to improve critical thinking, documentation, evidence gathering, and audit judgment.
Use root cause analysis tools to identify and explain audit issues.
Pat Downs is the Manager of Internal Audit and Process Improvement at Sutter Health, where he leads IT audit efforts focused on innovation, data analytics, and risk-based execution. With over 15 years in governance, risk, and controls, Pat blends operational and IT audit expertise to assess risk across both business processes and enabling technologies.
He began in operational audit before shifting to IT, giving him a balanced view of controls and business needs. Pat is proficient in frameworks like COBIT, NIST, and ITIL, and is known for translating complex technical issues into clear, actionable insights. A CISA, CISM, and CPA, he’s a trusted advisor, team mentor, and champion of continuous improvement.
Additional Details
Fieldwork in Practice with Clarity and Instruction
Description
In this interactive session, participants will reflect on key takeaways from the fieldwork module and share how they approach testing control design, implementation, and effectiveness in their organizations. Through guided discussion, managers will compare documentation practices, root cause techniques, and strategies for coaching audit staff. The session is designed to surface practical insights, peer-tested approaches, and common challenges in executing audit fieldwork effectively.
Learning Objectives
Identify common challenges and best practices in audit fieldwork execution.
Compare peer approaches to testing and documenting control effectiveness.
Reporting control testing results and issues
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
The Modern Audit Report
Description
This session helps Internal Audit Managers guide their teams in writing audit reports that are sharp, purposeful, and actionable. We’ll focus on what belongs in a strong audit report—and what doesn’t. Participants will learn techniques for shortening reports without losing clarity, and for writing observations and recommendations that prompt action from stakeholders.
Learning Objectives
Identify what to include—and exclude—for focused, effective audit reporting.
Apply techniques to shorten and simplify audit observations without losing impact.
Strengthen how audit teams communicate risk, root cause, and action clearly.
Coach teams to write reports that resonate with and drive action from stakeholders.
Additional Details
From Draft to Impact: Best Practices in Audit Reporting
Description
This facilitated discussion gives participants an opportunity to reflect on their team’s audit reporting practices and exchange strategies for writing clearer, more impactful reports. The conversation will focus on real-world approaches to structuring observations, streamlining content, and framing recommendations that prompt action. Participants will leave with peer-tested ideas for coaching their teams and elevating report quality.
Learning Objectives
Identify common challenges in audit report writing and how to overcome them.
Share best practices for improving clarity, tone, and relevance.
Compare strategies for writing reports that drive engagement and action.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
Managing the Audit - the Audit Team, Audit Customers, Audit Management, and Business Executives
Description
This session helps Internal Audit Managers strengthen their ability to manage in all directions—leading their audit team, aligning with audit leadership, partnering with business stakeholders, and keeping executives informed. The session will focus on how to keep audits moving forward, navigate difficult conversations, and communicate proactively without overloading others. Participants will learn practical strategies to balance delivery, relationships, and accountability across all levels.
Learning Objectives
Apply techniques for managing across stakeholders: audit team, audit leadership, and business executives.
Implement strategies to keep audit phases on track and deliverables timely.
Navigate difficult conversations with confidence and professionalism.
Communicate proactively while minimizing burden on others.
Katie Gerard is an accomplished Internal Audit leader with over 15 years of experience in audit strategy, risk management, and department transformation. As Senior Manager of Operational and Financial Audit at GE Vernova, she serves as a strategic advisor to the Chief Audit Executive, leading risk-based audits and driving the modernization of the audit function to align with enterprise priorities.
Previously, Katie was the Audit Operations and Quality Assurance Leader at GE and GE Vernova, where she acted as Chief of Staff and led initiatives to improve department operations and cross-functional collaboration. Her work resulted in GE Vernova’s first enterprise risk taxonomy, the formation of an Enterprise Risk Council, and enhanced assurance coordination through risk mapping.
Additional Details
360° Audit Leadership: Owning the Audit and Its Success
Description
This facilitated discussion explores how Internal Audit Managers can lead effectively in all directions—managing their teams, aligning with audit leadership, and engaging business stakeholders. Participants will share real-world experiences and strategies for keeping audits on track, handling difficult conversations, and balancing transparency with communication efficiency. The session emphasizes practical tactics to strengthen delivery, build trust, and maintain momentum throughout the audit process.
Learning Objectives
Identify approaches for managing relationships with audit staff, leaders, and stakeholders.
Discuss strategies for maintaining audit timelines and deliverables.
Share methods for handling difficult conversations professionally.
Evaluate ways to communicate proactively without overloading others.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
Coaching and Developing Internal Auditors
Description
This session helps Internal Audit Managers make the critical shift from high-performing individual contributors to effective people leaders. The focus is on building a coaching mindset—one that empowers team members to take ownership of their work, operate with confidence, and grow in their roles without the need for micromanagement. Participants will learn how to use 1:1s as meaningful coaching conversations, uncover what drives their team members, and give feedback that motivates rather than discourages. Practical people management tactics will be shared to help managers unlock potential, build trust, and lead with intention.
Learning Objectives
Describe the shift from individual contributor to people leader in the internal audit context.
Apply coaching strategies that promote autonomy and accountability on their teams.
Conduct 1:1 meetings that support growth, not just track deliverables.
Provide feedback that inspires development and builds trust.
Explore ways to understand and support their team members’ deeper motivations and goals.
Jan Murry, CPA, is the Internal Audit Director at GE Aerospace, where she leads with a vision to transform the internal audit function into a strategic business partner. Jan has a passion for leveraging lean principles and innovation to enhance operational efficiency and deliver value across the organization.
With 19 years of experience in internal and external audits, she combines technical expertise with a collaborative leadership style to foster continuous improvement, strengthen risk management practices, and develop talent.
Additional Details
Raising your Prominence as a Business Leader
Description
This facilitated session focuses on helping Internal Audit Managers evolve from high-performing individual contributors into impactful people leaders. Participants will explore how to coach team members in ways that build trust, encourage ownership, and reduce the need for micromanagement.
The conversation will focus on how to use 1:1s for development—not just status checks—and how to understand what motivates each team member. Attendees will also share strategies for delivering feedback that inspires action and growth, rather than creating defensiveness or dependency.
Learning Objectives
Explain the mindset shift from individual contributor to people leader.
Apply coaching techniques that promote team autonomy and accountability.
Structure 1:1 meetings to focus on development, not just deliverables.
Deliver feedback that motivates improvement and strengthens engagement.
Understand how individual motivation drives performance and team culture.
Tom is the Founder of the Internal Audit Collective, where he helps Internal Audit and SOX professionals to obtain the knowledge and experience to help their companies succeed, and for the individual to advance their career and earn more money.
Prior to the Internal Audit Collective, Tom was one of the first 40 employees at AuditBoard, where he worked with more than 750 internal audit and SOX teams, and 1k+ internal auditors on their internal audit strategies, processes, and technologies.
Prior to AuditBoard, Tom was a Chief Audit Executive at Analog Devices, and former EY Risk Advisory Manager.
Additional Details
From Individual Contributor to People Manager and Business Leader
Description
Being a great auditor and audit leader is one part of the puzzle. The other? Navigating the corporate environment in a way that best positions you for future opportunities and growth. Learn to get out of your own way and start seeing the recognition and progression you deserve with these secrets of the career game.
Learning Objectives
Establishing executive presence and improving executive communications
Building your personal brand
Ways to navigate the corporate bureaucracy of a public company
As the founder of That Career Coach, Kendall Berg helps her clients and followers understand how to find progression, recognition, and support in their careers. She has been featured in Newsweek, US News and World Report, and Business Insider sharing her tips and advice. She also regularly supports her more than 500K followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube with her take on playing the corporate game.
Prior to starting her company, Kendall worked with and for some of the largest companies in the world including Capital One, JP Morgan Chase, Samsung, and AT&T. In her role as a Director of Technology Strategy with these companies she has led strategic initiatives and culture programs geared towards career progression supporting 100s of thousands of employees. Over the course of her career, she has spoken to peer audiences of more than 1000 people and traveled the country sharing her advice with clients and corporations alike.
Kendall’s “That Career Coach” social media and podcast provides insights on corporate behind the scenes, recommendations on how to advocate for yourself and progress your career, and advice for navigating difficult interpersonal situations.
Additional Details
How the COMMAND Program works
Register For Command
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every Tuesday
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MORE than just one-hour presentations
The Command Program includes more than just CPE accredited presentations. The course was built with bonus resources to not only provide the training, but help you change the way you work.
The Command Program Syllabus
Includes copies of meeting presentations, optional and recommended pre-readings, cohort discussion talking points, and additional resources to help uplevel your audit management capabilities and career.
12-month Access to the Internal Audit Collective Community
An online, managed community for all cohort members to continue to build relationships and network, and to share best practices and templates on SOX compliance, Internal Audit, and other risk management initiatives with others who are part of the broader Internal Audit Collective community.
The COMMAND Program is not for everyone.
Register For CommandYou are a good fit for this course if:
You’ve never received formal training on the technical aspects of being an Internal Audit Manager.
Your internal audit team struggles with scope creep, timeliness, audit customer happiness, or team attrition.
You recognize that a large part of success involves not only your strategies, but having a network of like-minded individuals to share perspective with and learn from.
You’re willing to reach out and get the help you need when you get stuck.
You are open and flexible to new ideas and that there is not a black and white approach to managing audit projects.
You are not a good fit for this course if:
You are not respectful, or quickly dismissive of new ideas or perspectives of your peers.
You are looking to only learn, and not share your thoughts and converse with your peers when opportunities arise to do so.
You are just looking to get CPEs.
You are expecting The Command Program to be technical manual a detailed manual to carry out audit procedures.
Register for the
COMMAND Program
Early Bird Price Until DEC 1
$1,495 $1,695
Practical, cohort-based training to master the fundamentals of modern internal auditing
15 NASBA-accredited CPEs
1-year membership to the Internal Audit Collective community
9 expert-led presentations
6 peer roundtable discussions
Syllabus with all shared presentations and templates
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this course for?
The Command Program was built for:
- Current Internal Audit Managers or senior managers responsible for overseeing the completion of at least one audit project at a time.
- Seasoned internal audit seniors and supervisors who aspire to lead and oversee the completion of one or more audit projects simultaneously.
- Internal Audit leaders of small to mid-size departments looking for best practices managing audit projects and auditors successfully.
What if I cannot attend all of the meetings?
You will receive CPE credits for all sessions that you attend.
You will receive a certificate of completion for participating in 80% of the meetings (13 total)
I am not a current internal audit manager - am I allowed to register?
Yes, attendance is open to anyone interested in upleveling their ability to manage one or more audit projects to completion, and the additional responsibilities of a high performing audit manager.
Those that will benefit from this the most will have at least 4 years of experience and experience managing parts of, or a full audit project.
OK - I’m sold. What happens after I pay for the course?
Once you are registered, you will receive a welcome email, which will include the program syllabus with meeting information and materials.
What do I do if I have any additional questions?
Email me at: tom@InternalAuditCollective.com - and I’ll get back to you asap.
Are you offering the class again?
Currently, there are no additional classes scheduled. If you are interested in attending a future class, add your name to a waitlist here and we will follow up with you.