The Institute of Internal Auditors Welcomes Victor Velazquez as EVP for Global Strategy and Brand Future

Introduction

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Victor Velazquez, who will step into the role of Executive Vice President of Global Strategy, Membership, and Brand effective September 2, 2025. With an extensive career spanning over 25 years in various leadership positions in mission-driven organizations and Fortune 150 companies, Velazquez brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in driving significant growth and engagement in his previous roles.

Background

Before joining IIA, Velazquez was the Senior Vice President of Digital Transformation, Product, and Experience at UNFI, overseeing a vast eCommerce portfolio. His expertise in strategy development and digital innovation has led to substantial transformations in customer experience and has notably improved profit margins. Velazquez has also been an advisor to multiple organizations, where he concentrated on enhancing competitive positioning and creating scalable operating models.

Vision for IIA

In his new role at the Institute, Velazquez will be responsible for shaping the global strategy, managing membership growth, and refining overall brand presence. He is expected to collaborate closely with the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Directors to execute a vision that amplifies the IIA's mission and establishes a deeper connection with members worldwide.

Leadership Perspectives

Anthony Pugliese, President and CEO of The IIA, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Velazquez's appointment: "Victor is a proven leader with extensive experience driving transformation across global organizations. He steps into this role at an incredibly exciting time as The IIA continues to expand globally and invest in new ways to serve our members. His leadership across these areas will be a tremendous asset to our continued growth." This sentiment echoes the high expectations surrounding Velazquez’s abilities to contribute to and advance the organization’s objectives.

Personal Commitment

Victor Velazquez shared his excitement to join IIA, stating, "I am honored to join The IIA at such a pivotal time in its journey. It’s a true privilege to partner with such passionate colleagues and members around the world, and I look forward to applying my experience in digital innovation and member engagement to support the profession's continued growth and global impact." His commitment to fostering engagement and driving innovation is clear, setting a promising tone for the future of the IIA.

About The Institute of Internal Auditors

Founded in 1941, the Institute of Internal Auditors serves more than 265,000 members globally and has awarded over 200,000 Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certifications. The IIA is regarded internationally as a leader in setting standards, providing education, conducting research, and offering technical guidance in the internal audit profession. To learn more about their initiatives and ongoing projects, visit theiia.org.

Conclusion

The appointment of Victor Velazquez marks a significant step in The Institute of Internal Auditors' commitment to enhancing its brand presence and member engagement globally. With his substantial experience in leadership roles and a clear vision for digital transformation, the IIA is poised to thrive in its mission to serve the internal audit community worldwide.