Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure a qualified service provider to conduct a comprehensive external quality assurance review of the Internal Audit Function at Joe Gqabi District Municipality, ensuring compliance with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IIA standards). Additionally, the service provider will transfer skills to municipal staff regarding the implementation of the quality assurance and improvement program, thereby strengthening internal audit capacity and enhancing governance, risk management, and internal controls within the municipality.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Assessment of the Internal Audit Activity’s conformity to IIA standards and other relevant requirements.
• Evaluation of the efficiency and effectiveness of the Internal Audit Function in fulfilling its vision and mission.
• Provision of a full External Quality Assurance Review report with an overall opinion.
• Conducting a gap analysis comparing current practices with global standards.
• Development of an actionable improvement plan.
• Delivery of a workshop to internal audit staff on the improvement plan.
• Transfer of skills and knowledge to municipal staff for ongoing quality assurance.

Technical Requirements

The service provider must:

• Assess the Internal Audit Activity’s compliance with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IIA).
• Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the Internal Audit Function.
• Provide a comprehensive External Quality Assurance Review report, including an overall opinion.
• Conduct a gap analysis against current methodologies and the latest global standards.
• Develop and present an actionable improvement plan with clear timelines and responsibilities.
• Facilitate a workshop for internal audit staff on the improvement plan.
• Deliver all reports and plans in both hard and electronic formats.
• Prepare a Project Engagement Plan within five working days of appointment.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure ownership of information remains with the municipality.
• Complete the review within a three-month timeframe from appointment.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in conducting External Quality Assurance Reviews of Internal Audit functions, with at least four similar projects in the past five years.
• Capability to evaluate conformity to IIA standards and legislative requirements.
• Qualified project leader with:
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of five years’ experience as a Chief Audit Executive or similar role.
• Membership of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
• Qualified team members with relevant professional registrations and experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of internal audit methodologies, risk management, and governance frameworks.
• Ability to transfer skills through workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions.
• Capacity to deliver comprehensive reports, gap analysis, and improvement plans aligned with international standards.