The Strength of Our Global Profession
Blogs Anthony Pugliese, CIA, CPA, CGMA, CITP Jul 09, 2026
After traveling to Singapore recently for several of The IIA’s most important annual events, I’m thankful to have a moment to settle in and reflect on an inspiring week spent with practitioners and leaders from around the world.
We kicked off the week with Global Assembly, which brought together leaders from 122 countries to explore the most pressing trends shaping our profession. Together, we engaged in thoughtful discussions on the future of internal audit and how we can continue advancing the profession while strengthening our collective, strategic vision for the future. The Annual Business Meeting also marked an important milestone for our organization as we transitioned to new volunteer leadership, including the appointment of Stacey Schabel as The IIA’s new Global Board Chair.
From there, we welcomed more than 2,000 practitioners and leaders representing 114 countries to the 2026 International Conference. Every year, I’m reminded that one of our profession’s greatest strengths is its global community. I continue to be inspired by the innovative perspectives of those who shape our global profession — and the shared commitment to helping organizations navigate risk, strengthen governance, and create lasting value.
This year’s keynote presentations, panel discussions, and breakout sessions were anchored around one core theme: Transformation. We heard from experts at the forefront of their industries about how AI acceleration, geopolitical uncertainty, sustainability challenges, and evolving stakeholder demands are reshaping the nature of our work. With a broad and diverse speaker lineup, we also heard perspectives from leaders across financial services, technology, public services, and beyond, reinforcing that while today’s risks may be increasingly complex, they also present new opportunities for internal auditors to lead with insight, innovation, and strategic input.
One discussion that resonated throughout the week centered on the future of talent. As our profession evolves, so must the way we attract, develop, and empower the next generation of internal auditors. Preparing future leaders with the skills and adaptability needed to drive meaningful change in a rapidly changing environment will remain one of our most important priorities.
Among the week’s highlights, and one of my favorite moments, was celebrating this year’s recipients of The IIA Excellence Awards. This year, we recognized 11 individuals and two outstanding internal audit teams whose leadership and dedication continue to elevate this great profession. From CAEs and educators to young professionals, volunteers, and student leaders, this year’s recipients demonstrated that meaningful contributions and leadership exist at every stage of a career.
This year’s conference also reinforced another priority at The IIA: strengthening global collaboration and expanding access to professional development and certification opportunities for internal auditors around the world. As part of that commitment, I'm pleased to share that beginning Sept. 1, the CIA Challenge Exam will be available in French and Spanish (registration is now open), with additional languages to follow. Expanding access to our flagship certification marks another important step toward equipping more professionals worldwide with the tools and credentials they need to advance their careers and the profession.
As I returned home, I was struck by the momentum building across our global community. I’m grateful to everyone who joined us in Singapore and contributed to making this year’s conference a success. I’m already looking forward to continuing these conversations at next year’s conference in Riyadh. I hope to see many of you there as we continue to drive important conversations and shape the future of our profession — together.