2025 | Internal Audit Department: Nicole Poon

60 Days of Summer: Internal Audit Internship

My two-month internship with IPOS’s Internal Audit Department gave me both a fresh perspective on internal audit and a deeper appreciation for the role it plays in public service. Coming from an external audit background, this experience helped me understand how internal audit works behind the scenes to strengthen controls and ensure compliance.

A core part of my experience was supporting the team in preparing for Audit Committee Meetings (ACMs) for both IPOS and IPOS International. Through various responsibilities such as preparing presentation slides, assisting in audit reports, documenting ACM minutes, preparing working papers, and conducting data analysis, I gained comprehensive insight into how the department serves as a catalyst for organisational improvement.

Furthermore, the privilege of supporting ACM preparations exposed me to high-level discussions about risk management, control improvements, and strategic decisions. Throughout this process, I witnessed firsthand how the audit findings I helped develop through my audit reviews were consolidated in the ACM and subsequently translated into actionable recommendations that cascade through different levels of the organisation. This showed me that internal audit isn’t just about identifying weaknesses—it plays a vital role in helping organisations evolve, improve processes, and build resilience.

Another highlight of my internship was assisting with an IT audit review. As someone with limited technical background, it was interesting to learn how internal audit assesses IT-related risks and controls. I was introduced to concepts around cloud systems and disaster recovery, and this experience sparked a new interest in understanding the role of technology in audit and governance.

I’m deeply grateful to the Internal Audit team— Carol, Grace, Nadia, and Judah —for their mentorship and support throughout this journey. Their constant guidance and patience in addressing my questions to ensure that I understand the context behind each assignment and including me in important discussions made this experience meaningful. I also appreciated their encouragement to connect with other teams and step outside of my comfort zone.

Lastly, I’m thankful for the wonderful interns I met during this internship—I always looked forward to our lunches and conversations. Looking back, these 60 days gave me more than technical knowledge. They gave me confidence, clarity, and a deeper understanding of how internal audit strengthens organisations. This experience has inspired me to continue exploring a career in this field.