Reporting in the context of integrated thinking and the transformation in internal audit's role

In recent years, many things including the way businesses operate, corporate reporting, and the risk environment have changed. It can be said that the internal audit profession has also experience a change and it has been affected by the global developments, changing stakeholder expectations and risk environment. Integrated reporting emphasizes integration in corporate reporting. In this study, during the Integrated Reporting transition period in Turkey, it has been tried to put forward the transformation and development process in internal audit's role and responsibilities. By revealing the integrated reporting and internal audit relationship, it is aimed to understand how internal audit as one of the cornerstones of governance can create value and contribute to the development of the IR process. As a result of the study; it was understood that in Turkey integrated thinking and consciousness about sustainability has not yet fully settled and short-term perspective still surpass the long-term perspective. It is also understood that the awareness in this area has not yet increased enough. In terms of integrated reporting which is offering a holistic perspective, internal auditors in Turkey have tried to follow the developments closely; however, it is understood that they are cautious about the implementation and assurance of IR. As good practices increase in this area, internal audit profession may be more involved in the IR process. It is clear that internal auditors may have a pioneering role in this area but not yet adequately entered this field due to the constraints in awareness, time and competence. It can be said that internal auditors should be more agile and prepared, especially considering the changing risk environment and new practices in corporate reporting. If they increase their skills and competencies in terms of integrated thinking and integrated reporting; it is concluded that internal auditors with their experience and versatility can be reliable consultants as well as being a part of integrated assurance. The adoption of integrated reporting as a new practice at the beginning, creates an opportunity for internal auditors to add value to their professions and may be expected to take on more duties in this field in the future.