An Audit Committee is a sub-group of a company’s Board of Directors responsible for the oversight of the financial reporting and disclosure process. The duties and responsibilities of the Audit Committee greatly contribute to good corporate governance practices of a company.

Required:
Explain FOUR roles of an Audit Committee in compliance with good corporate governance practices.

Roles of an Audit Committee in Good Corporate Governance

  1. Oversight of Financial Reporting Process

    • The audit committee ensures the integrity and transparency of the company’s financial reporting process.
    • It reviews quarterly and annual financial statements, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and legal requirements.
  2. External Audit Responsibilities

    • The committee recommends the appointment, removal, and remuneration of external auditors.
    • It ensures the independence of auditors and discusses the audit scope before commencement.
    • It reviews the external auditor’s report and ensures management responds appropriately to audit findings.
  3. Internal Control and Risk Management

    • The committee monitors the effectiveness of internal controls to safeguard company assets.
    • It ensures an appropriate risk management framework is in place to identify and mitigate key business risks.
  4. Oversight of Internal Audit Function

    • It ensures the internal audit department is independent and effective in performing its duties.
    • The committee reviews internal audit reports, approves the internal audit plan, and ensures findings are addressed.