Internal Audit Thought Leaders: 25 Influencers to Follow in 2026
This article highlights 25 additional internal audit professionals to follow in 2026, expanding on previous recommendations. It emphasizes the growing trend of "distributed thought leadership" within the profession, driven by social media and broader information access. For audit and assurance professionals, this list provides valuable resources for staying current, gaining diverse perspectives, and engaging with a wider community of experts.
The Rise of Distributed Thought Leadership in Internal Audit
Richard Chambers, a prominent voice in internal audit, has released his annual list of 25 internal audit influencers to follow in 2026. This list complements his previous "Internal Audit Beacon Awards" honorees, bringing the total recommended professionals to 40. Chambers notes a significant shift in how internal audit knowledge is disseminated, moving from a few central sources to a more decentralized model he terms "distributed thought leadership" (DTL). This evolution is largely fueled by social media platforms and increased access to information, fostering a richer exchange of ideas and experiences among practitioners globally.
Why Follow These Influencers?
The value of following these influencers lies in their consistent contribution of practical insights and professional perspectives. While Chambers acknowledges that he may not agree with every opinion shared, the primary benefit is the engagement and the forward-thinking discussions they generate. These individuals, hailing from 10 different countries and boasting an average of over 11,000 LinkedIn followers, represent a diverse range of expertise and viewpoints. Their active participation in the professional discourse helps internal auditors learn faster and adapt to evolving challenges.
A Global Network of Expertise
The list features a diverse group of professionals from various regions and roles, including Vice Presidents of Assurance, Chief Internal Auditors, consultants, academics, and leaders from professional organizations. This global representation underscores the interconnectedness of the internal audit profession and the importance of understanding different regional contexts and approaches. Beyond individual influencers, Chambers also recommends following several organizations with active social media presences, such as AuditBoard, the Chartered IIA, and the Global IIA, for additional valuable resources and perspectives.
Key Takeaways for Internal Audit Professionals
- Embrace "distributed thought leadership" by actively seeking out diverse voices and perspectives within the internal audit community.
- Leverage social media platforms to connect with and learn from a wider network of professionals.
- Stay informed about global trends and best practices by following influencers from various countries and backgrounds.
- Recognize that engaging with different viewpoints, even those you may not fully agree with, is crucial for professional growth and pushing the profession forward.
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