Subject:	“Root Cause Analysis for Internal Auditors”
Date:	Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Time:	9:00 to 17:00
Venue:	Cleopatra Hotel, Nicosia
Language:	English
CPE Points (Continuous Professional Education):	7 CPEs
Instructors:	Konstantinos Triantafyllidis (CIA, CFSA, CCSA, CFE, CQA)
Outline:	Seminar Outline
Registration Form:	Seminar Participation

Program Overview

In today’s dynamic and risk-sensitive business environment, internal auditors are expected to go beyond identifying control failures and compliance gaps, they must provide meaningful insights that drive sustainable improvements. This is why Root Cause Analysis (RCA) becomes a critical tool in the auditor’s toolkit.

RCA enables internal auditors to move beyond symptoms and surface-level issues to uncover the underlying causes of control breakdowns, process inefficiencies, and recurring non-conformities. By applying structured RCA methodologies, auditors can offer actionable recommendations that address problems at their source, rather than merely treating the effects. This not only strengthens organizational resilience but also enhances the credibility and value of the audit function.

Moreover, as regulatory expectations and stakeholder demand for accountability and continuous improvement grow, the ability to perform effective RCA is increasingly seen as a core competency for internal auditors. It supports a culture of learning rather than blame, fosters more effective risk management, and aligns closely with quality improvement initiatives such as ISO standards.

This seminar is designed to empower internal auditors with practical knowledge of RCA tools such as the 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, Pareto Analysis. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, participants will learn how to integrate RCA into their audit planning, fieldwork, and reporting phases, ultimately enhancing the impact of their audit engagements.

By attending, auditors will not only improve the quality of their findings but also position themselves as strategic partners in organizational performance and risk mitigation. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your audit practice and contribute more effectively to lasting business improvements.

Program Objectives

This seminar is designed to equip internal auditors with the knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively apply Root Cause Analysis (RCA) within the audit process. By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose, significance, and key terminology associated with Root Cause Analysis (RCA).
• Recognize how RCA aligns with the relevant principles of the Global Internal Audit Standards.
• Appreciate the critical role of process documentation and how a deep understanding of processes forms the foundation for effective RCA.
• Confidently apply RCA tools, techniques, templates, and problem-solving skills in the context of internal audit activities.
• Enhance the quality and impact of audit reports by integrating RCA findings that drive meaningful, lasting corrective actions.

Target audience

This seminar is ideal for a wide range of professionals involved in assurance, risk, and control functions who are looking to strengthen their Root Cause Analysis (RCA) capabilities. Participants who will benefit most include:

• Internal Audit professionals at all levels, including Chief Audit Executives, Audit Managers, Auditors-in-Charge, Senior Auditors, and Junior/Staff Auditors
• Professionals in related control functions, such as Compliance Officers, Risk Managers, Security Professionals, and External Auditors
• Governance and oversight stakeholders, including Members of the Board and Audit Committee members
• Operational leaders and decision-makers, such as Line Managers, Senior Managers, and Team Leaders

This program is especially valuable for those seeking to apply RCA tools and techniques in a practical setting, and to adopt a more structured, impactful approach to identifying and addressing the root causes of control issues, process failures, and audit findings.

Morning Session (9.00 – 13.00)

Afternoon Session (14.00 – 17.00)

Trainer: Mr. Konstantinos P. Triantafyllidis (CIA, CFSA, CCSA, CFE, CQA)

Mr. Konstantinos P. Triantafyllidis is a seasoned internal audit professional with over 30 years of experience in both external and internal auditing, with a particular focus on the banking and insurance sectors. He has held senior internal audit positions, including Internal Audit Manager for multiple subsidiaries of major Greek banking groups, and currently serves as an Internal Audit Consultant.

He is the Past President of the Greek Institute of Internal Auditors (2003–2008) and a former member of the Audit Committee of the Greek Ministry of Economics. Mr. Triantafyllidis holds a degree in Economic Science from the Athens University of Economics and Business and an MBA in Banking.

He is a highly credentialed professional, holding the following designations from The Global Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA): Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA), Certification in Control Self-Assessment (CCSA), Certified Quality Assessor (CQA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).

Mr. Triantafyllidis has led numerous External Quality Assessment (EQA) engagements for internal audit units across various sectors, including central banks.

A respected trainer and speaker, he has delivered sessions at numerous national and international seminars and conferences. His training expertise spans internal auditing, internal control systems, compliance, and risk management. He is a longstanding exclusive trainer for the Hellenic Bank Association and a contributing member of the Committee that developed the official Greek Corporate Governance Code.