auditors have assessed relevant information objectively, and that they have scrutinized evidence critically and independently. Shareholders also want to be sure that the auditors have undertaken their work and made their judgements free from any bias and without being influenced unduly by
there are many detailed regulation and professional standards to which audit firms and all their staff must adhere, and which support both the fact and perception of auditor independence. In simple terms, auditors may not do anything that should be the role of management or that creates a mutual interest.
Specific requirements vary around the world, but generally include
• Prohibiting the auditors from holding and interest in (whether financial or through close relationship with) the company they are auditing
• Prohibiting the auditors from providing the company with certain service (such as implementation of accounting IT systems or hiring employees) that could compromise their objectivity
• Requiring key personnel on the audit to be changed from to time to time, so that freshpairs of eyes are brought to bear including regular rotation of the lead audit partner
The most important factor underpinning auditor independence is the attitude of mind that is instilled through audit training, practice and the culture of the audit firm, and which auditors exhibit through professional skepticism in their work. The discipline of independence is core to an auditor’s approach and mindest