Internal Audit

Internal Audit at LSE is performed by an external company but is internally coordinated by the Secretary's Division.

Independent role

The Head of Internal Audit is responsible to the Director, but on a day-to-day basis to the School Secretary, for providing an independent appraisal of the School's activities by evaluating the effectiveness of the internal control system, including elements related to risk management.

They have no executive role or any responsibility for the development, implementation or operation of systems. The Head of Internal Audit has a direct right of access to the Council through the Audit Committee.

Responsibilities

All the School's activities are within the Head of Internal Audit's remit. The Head of Internal Audit is required to give an annual opinion to the Council, through the Audit Committee, on the status and reliability of internal controls within the School, and in particular:

  • to ascertain that the systems of controls are sound and adequate, comply with established policies and operate to achieve the most effective, efficient and economic use of resources;
  • to ensure that assets and interests in funds provided to or by the School are properly controlled and safeguarded;
  • to ensure the integrity and reliability of information and data used by the School; and
  • to draw attention to apparently unsatisfactory results of School decisions, practices or policies.

The Head of Internal Audit will also conduct any special reviews required by the School.

Support

In addition to carrying out the basic responsibilities above which are required under the Audit Code of Practice issued by OfS, the Head of Internal Audit is available as an independent source of guidance and advice on any matters with which they may have contact.

The intention is that the activities of internal audit should make a positive contribution to the School's operations by identifying more effective and efficient means of achieving objectives and by offering general support whenever appropriate.

Access

The Head of Internal Audit has the right of access to all School records and assets and the right to require any member of staff of the School to supply any information which they consider necessary to fulfil their responsibilities.

Contact

If you have any questions or queries about internal audit matters please contact Sarah Anou s.anou@lse.ac.uk.

Useful links

Audit Committee