Stacey Schabel Named IIA Global Board Chair for 2026-2027, Emphasizing Risk-Focused, Future-Ready Internal Audit

New Leadership for the IIA Global Board

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) has announced Stacey Schabel, CIA, CPA, as the new Chair of its Global Board for the 2026-2027 term. The appointment was made during the IIA's 2026 International Conference in Singapore. Schabel brings over 25 years of extensive leadership experience in internal audit, risk management, and governance, primarily within global and U.S. public financial services organizations. Her background includes serving as Senior Vice President and Global Head of Operational Risk at RGA Reinsurance Company, and over a decade as Chief Audit Executive for Jackson Financial, Inc., where she was also part of the Prudential plc Global Internal Audit Leadership team.

A Platform for Strategic Evolution

Schabel's leadership platform, "Risk Focused. Future Ready," outlines key strategic priorities for the internal audit profession. This vision emphasizes internal audit's role as a strategic, risk-focused advisor that not only protects organizations but also drives value. Her agenda addresses the imperative for the profession to navigate rapid technological and risk changes, including the rise of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity threats, and digital transformation. Furthermore, she aims to advance integrated assurance efforts globally by fostering stronger alignment between enterprise risk management (ERM) and the Three Lines Model.

Key Focus Areas for the Upcoming Term

During her tenure, Schabel will concentrate on several critical areas to enhance the profession's impact and relevance:

• Solidifying internal audit's position as a strategic, risk-focused advisor.
• Guiding the profession through rapid technological advancements and evolving risk landscapes.
• Promoting integrated assurance globally through enhanced collaboration with ERM and the Three Lines Model.
• Strengthening advocacy efforts worldwide to improve board, audit committee, and overall governance effectiveness.
• Investing in the development of the next generation of internal audit professionals and future leaders.

Her commitment to adapting internal audit's skills, methodologies, and mindsets is crucial for elevating the profession's impact and delivering lasting value to organizations and stakeholders in an increasingly complex environment. The IIA also announced Dr. Hussam Alangari as the Senior Vice Chair for the 2026–2027 term, who is slated to become Global Board Chair for 2027–2028, ensuring continuity in leadership.