Introduction

Operational auditing has evolved beyond traditional financial and compliance audits to focus on evaluating and improving organizational efficiency, effectiveness, and risk management processes. This advanced training course provides participants with the tools, techniques, and frameworks required to conduct operational audits that deliver strategic value. By blending theory with practical application, participants will learn how to evaluate complex business processes, identify improvement opportunities, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand advanced concepts and methodologies of operational auditing.
2. Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of organizational operations and processes.
3. Use data analytics and risk-based approaches to identify and assess operational risks.
4. Design and execute high-impact operational audits that drive improvements.
5. Deliver actionable recommendations to management for operational excellence.
6. Address emerging challenges, such as digital transformation, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), and cybersecurity risks.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Internal auditors and audit managers looking to advance their operational auditing skills.
• Risk management and compliance professionals involved in operational reviews.
• Business leaders responsible for overseeing process optimization and efficiency.
• Professionals in finance, operations, and strategy roles aiming to enhance performance audits.
• Consultants and advisors specializing in operational risk and audit services.

5-Day Training Outline

Day 1: Foundations of Operational Auditing

• Overview of Operational Auditing: Purpose and Objectives
• Distinguishing Operational Audits from Financial and Compliance Audits
• Key Frameworks and Standards for Operational Auditing
• Case Study: Successful Operational Audits in Real-World Scenarios

Day 2: Planning and Risk-Based Approaches

• Developing Risk-Based Audit Plans
• Identifying and Prioritizing High-Risk Areas
• Conducting Preliminary Surveys and Process Mapping
• Workshop: Building an Operational Audit Plan for a Simulated Organization

Day 3: Data Analytics and Process Evaluation

• Leveraging Data Analytics in Operational Auditing
  • Tools for Analyzing Operational Data
  • Using Dashboards and KPIs for Audit Insights
• Evaluating Processes for Efficiency and Effectiveness
• Workshop: Applying Data Analytics to Real-World Audit Scenarios

Day 4: Executing Advanced Operational Audits

• Designing Audit Tests and Procedures for Key Processes
• Conducting Walkthroughs, Interviews, and Observations
• Assessing Operational Risks and Internal Controls
• Practical Activity: Simulating an Operational Audit on Key Business Functions

Day 5: Reporting and Delivering Value

• Writing Clear and Actionable Audit Reports
• Communicating Findings to Stakeholders and Management
• Following Up on Recommendations and Measuring Impact
• Capstone Activity: Developing and Presenting an Operational Audit Report for a Case Study
• Emerging Trends in Operational Auditing:
  • ESG Audits, Digital Transformation, and Cybersecurity Risks

Course Outcome

Participants will leave this training course with advanced operational auditing expertise, enabling them to conduct impactful audits that drive process improvements, enhance organizational efficiency, and manage risks effectively. This course equips professionals to align operational audits with organizational goals, ensuring sustainable value creation and competitive advantage.