Institute Appoints Former Diplomat As Policy Director

20 August 2012

The Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) has appointed David Lyscom, a former UK Ambassador to the OECD, as its new Policy Director.

Lyscom had a long career in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office culminating in positions as the UK Ambassador to the OECD and IEA (International Energy Agency), both key international policy making bodies, and UK Ambassador to Slovakia. He recently left the Independent Schools Council, which represents the interests of over 1200 independent schools in the UK and abroad, after three years as its chief executive. 

Dr Ian Peters, Chief Executive of the IIA, says: "We are delighted to welcome David to the Institute. His background in government and his time as the UK representative at influential policy bodies have provided him with a wealth of experience and expertise in policy and influence, and a detailed knowledge of the workings of Whitehall. David will be a tremendous asset to our organisation and our members."

David Lyscom says: "It is increasingly clear that the effective use of internal audit can play a vital role in the governance of private and public sector organisations. My role will be to lead the Institute's interaction with key policymakers, regulators and the profession to ensure that the potential of internal audit is fully realised."

The IIA's new appointment comes at an important time. With businesses still struggling in the aftermath of the financial crisis, and given growing regulatory pressures in many sectors, the need for strong corporate governance, robust internal controls, and effective risk management is greater than ever before.

Internal auditors help organisations to manage all the major risks facing them, including, but not limited to, financial risks. They play a crucial role in protecting shareholder and taxpayer value by supporting the organisation's board and management in identifying and addressing risk management and governance issues before they become a problem.

David Lyscom will report to Dr Ian Peters, the Institute's Chief Executive, and will be a part of his Executive Management Team.
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