The Institute of Internal Auditors - UK and Ireland (IIA) has appointed Ian Peters to succeed Gail Easterbrook as Chief Executive.

Peters, who was previously Director of External Affairs at the Engineering Employers Federation (EEF) and before that Deputy Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, will take up his new post in Mid June.

Philip Ratcliffe, IIA President said:

“I am delighted to announce Ian Peter's appointment as Chief Executive from an impressive short list of candidates.  He joins us at a time when the internal audit profession, with the IIA as its leading voice, has much to contribute to the public debates about the future shape of corporate governance, risk management and internal control. Ian’s expertise in the public policy arena, combined with his general management capabilities, will be of enormous benefit as he leads the Institute’s drive to raise the profile and influence of the profession.  I also want to pay tribute to Gail Easterbrook, our retiring Chief Executive for over 18 years, under whose leadership the Institute has come a very long way with achievements on many fronts.”

Easterbrook, who announced she was stepping down in December last year, commented: “I am very pleased that a successor of Ian's calibre has been identified. There are many important projects underway at the Institute, key amongst them the consultation on Chartered status for the Institute and its members. A handover plan has already begun to ensure the change is seamless and momentum is maintained".

Commenting on his appointment, Ian said: “One of the key lessons of the current economic crisis is the need for effective risk management and internal control, as vital components of good governance. Internal auditors have an essential role to play in supporting boards to ensure that recent failures are never repeated and that systems are in place to identify, understand and prepare for all other risks from Swine Flu to IT failure.  I am looking forward to working with the Institute’s staff and members to ensure that the profession’s contribution to addressing such challenges is recognised and accepted by the leaders of both the private and public sector.”

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Photo: Ian Peters