The Myth of Internal Audit Independence: Why It’s Time to Evolve Beyond GRC Thinking

Internal AuditGRCGovernment
Written By John A. Wheeler

The debate over the true independence of internal audit (IA) has resurfaced with new urgency following the recent high-profile firings of multiple inspectors general (IGs). Government IGs in the United States operate in similar ways to IA in private-sector organizations. Given their similarity, these IG dismissals have sparked controversy within the IA community, with critics arguing they threaten government oversight and accountability. The situation underscores a long-standing issue: IA and IGs are not truly independent, and continuing to believe otherwise does more harm than good.

John A. Wheeler

John A. Wheeler is the founder and CEO of Wheelhouse Advisors, a global risk management strategy and technology advisory firm. With over three decades of experience spanning executive management, finance, risk management, audit, and IT, John is a world-renowned expert in integrated risk management technology, executive leadership, and corporate governance.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnawheeler/
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