Institute of Internal Auditors elects new executives, board

Jaigopaul Ram has been elected as the new President of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) following the organisation’s recent Annual General Meeting.

During the meeting, other office-bearers were elected to manage the entity’s operations, along with a Board of Governors tasked with shaping its strategic direction.

In addition to Ram, Nigel Shurland was elected Vice President; Joshua Hammichand, Treasurer; Chateram Ramdihal, Secretary; Dr Alista Bishop, Vice President of Programming; and Siddique Alli Jaipal, Vice President of Membership.

The newly elected Board of Directors includes Ramesh Dookhoo, Pavita Ramkissoon, Quincy Bourne, Johann Chan Niles, and Joel Lyken.

The new IIA President stated that his first priority would be to re-engage members who had left the organisation over the years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, while also implementing efforts to attract new professionals.

Ram acknowledged that, like many similar organisations, the local IIA chapter was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and is still in the process of recovery.

“My priority will be to get the members back and to grow the membership by providing the Internal Audit Committee with the support needed to develop the profession here in Guyana,” he stated.

The IIA affirmed that its executives and Board of Governors take great pride in their profession and are committed to making a meaningful impact on its future.

Last month marked the 25th anniversary of the Guyana Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).

The chapter previously noted that internal auditors should be regarded as partners in enhancing organisational effectiveness, rather than mere “watchdogs” in the eyes of stakeholders.

Among their key responsibilities, internal auditors support both public and private entities in areas such as governance, internal controls, and risk management.