The IIA's Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA) is the only globally accepted certification for internal auditors and remains the standard by which individuals demonstrate their competence and professionalism in the internal audit field. The IIA also offers several specialty certification programs, including the Certification in Control Self Assessment (CCSA); the Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP); and the Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA).

A broad range of skills and expertise, and ongoing professional development are critical to the formation and maintenance of an effective internal audit activity. Increasingly internal audit activities are performed by multi­ disciplinary teams that include engineers, accountants, management graduates, and even environmental specialists who reflect a broad range of today's assurance needs. Also, information technology audit experts are a core component of modem-day internal audit activities. Internal auditors should also possess the following attributes: • Strong interpersonal skills.

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is the internal audit profession's acknowledged leader, recognized authority, and principal educator. Although the practice of internal auditing is not regulated, The IIA provides comprehensive guidance for the profession through its Professional Practices Framework (PPF). The PPF comprises the official definition of internal auditing, the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (the Standards), the Code of Ethics, Practice Advisories, and development and practice aids.