KPMG is investing in innovation and training to enhance client servicing and adapt to market needs

Dubai, 7 August 2014: KPMG, one of the biggest and most respected auditing, tax and consultancy firms globally, has repeatedly demonstrated the best practices of its UAE team. KPMG UAE has been exploring new and innovative ways to enhance client engagement and keep up with evolving business needs while participating in elite management training programs at world-class institutes.

In keeping with this, Karl Hendricks, partner, KPMG in the UAE, has become the first individual among the Big Four organisations to graduate from the premier US-based Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) new Internal Audit Leadership program - QIAL (Qualification in Internal Audit). 

The meticulously developed QIAL program focuses on internal audit leadership skills, organisational abilities, ethics, innovation and change - skill sets which are deemed critical for audit partners as they work with clients in an ever-evolving business environment. Further QIAL assists in developing skills proven to be key indicators of success specific to internal audit leadership and is intended to empower aspiring leaders toward self-development.

While Karl was the first practitioner among the Big Four and the first within the KPMG global network, he was also one of only 12 individuals to receive this certificate.

Ian Gomes, Partner and Head of Advisory & Markets, KPMG Lower Gulf, said: "We are extremely pleased that a KPMG partner has joined the elite league of IIA-certified QIAL auditors. It is this drive and determination that makes KPMG a leader in innovation and demonstrates that the firm is committed to keeping abreast with evolving business and market needs."

The IIA leadership program evaluated candidates in a challenging three-part test, which focused on internal audit leadership skills, organisational abilities and innovation.

Candidates had to critically analyze complex information in three separate case studies and produce written responses for each, providing their insights for a senior-level audience. This was followed by a presentation to a senior-level panel, followed by a rigorous question-and-answer session.

The program culminated in a 90-minute interview that focused on personal and professional experience. In place of the case studies, candidates with extensive experience were permitted to submit documentation of their own experiences along with supporting evidence.

Karl Hendricks says: "When the Institute of Internal Auditors approached me as one of the first potential global practitioners to undertake the leadership exam, I was delighted. The qualification focuses on how leaders' experience and expertise has prepared them to meet new and evolving business challenges facing the profession and it is imperative that we as leaders are equipped with the right tools to address ongoing business needs."

The QIAL program in the long term aims to actively position tomorrow leaders at the forefront of discussions and ensure they have a seat at the table to provide value and influence the decisions of business leaders.

About QIAL:
The Qualification in Internal Audit Leadership™ (QIAL™) program has been developed by the prestigious Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) to support individuals on their journey to be the next generation of visionaries within the internal audit profession. Its aim is to distinguish established internal audit leaders whose experience and expertise have prepared them to meet the new and evolving business challenges facing the profession.

About KPMG
KPMG is a global network of professional firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. It operates in 155 countries and has more than 155,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such.

Recent KPMG UAE awards and recognitions
In June 2014, Arij Sheikh of KPMG Dubai won First Place and the Little Prize in the latest ICAEW Chartered Accountant qualification (ACA) exams. He is the first UAE-based student to have won an international prize in the ICAEW exams.

The Little Prize is awarded to the candidate who achieves the highest marks for the taxation paper. The examinations are part of the internationally-recognised ICAEW Chartered Accountant qualification, which is held by over 142,000 professionals across more than 160 countries worldwide.

For media queries:
Ketaki Banga
BPG Cohn & Wolfe
(T) +971 4 2953456 Ext. 310
(M) +971 501493470
(e) ketaki@bpgcohnwolfe.com

Andrea Lopes
BPG Cohn & Wolfe
(T) +971 4 2953456 Ext. 306
(M) +971 55 876 2816
(e) andrea@bpgcohnwolfe.com

© Press Release 2014