The contribution of internal audit to the performance of the internal control system: case of the Moroccan banking sector

Abstract

The ultimate objective of this article is to present the role of the internal auditor in the performance of the internal control system (ICS). Firstly, our reflection is oriented towards a deepening of the literature review in order to better understand the concepts and the nature of the relationship between internal audit and internal control, then we have presented the research methodology followed, in this case the qualitative methodology with exploratory aim, Then we presented the results after communication of an interview guide with seven auditors and a member of the management committee who work in different Moroccan banks, which present two types, the first one considers that information and communication are the conditions of success for an ICS, the second one emphasizes the importance of respecting the components of internal control.  

As with any study, our research had a limitation, namely the sample size, which we felt was limited due to the health crisis, resulting in the unavailability of managers to conduct our interviews properly.

The academic interest of this paper lies in strengthening the literature on the subject, while the managerial interest lies in identifying apparent gaps in the ICS to assist managers in their decision making.

Our aim is to examine the contribution of internal audit to the effectiveness and efficiency of the internal control system. Our study is based on Moroccan banks. The interest of this report is therefore an exploration of the ICS of the selected banks.

JEL Classification : M4

Paper type : Empirical research