Stacey Schabel Appointed as Global Board Chair for The IIA in 2026-2027
On June 24, 2026, during The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) 2026 International Conference in Singapore, Stacey L. Schabel, CIA, CPA, was designated to lead as Chair of the Global Board for the term of 2026-2027. Schabel’s extensive experience, which spans over 25 years in roles centered on internal audit, risk management, and governance, positions her for impactful leadership in this prominent role.
As she embarks on this journey, Schabel steps into a legacy of volunteer leaders who have significantly contributed to the profession’s growth and integrity. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President and Global Head of Operational Risk at RGA Reinsurance Company, her prior experience as the Chief Audit Executive at Jackson Financial adds considerable weight to her credentials. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role in the Prudential plc Global Internal Audit Leadership team for eight years.
Throughout her career, Schabel has consistently demonstrated a commitment to evolving the internal audit landscape. Her recent positions include serving as the Senior Vice Chair and Audit Committee Chair of the Global Board, alongside various roles on The IIA’s North American Board and several advisory councils.
Schabel's appointment comes at a time of transforming challenges and opportunities in governance, risk, and internal audit, leading The IIA’s president and CEO, Anthony Pugliese, to remark on her dedication to advancing the field. Pugliese expressed confidence in Schabel’s ability to enhance the impact of internal audit, particularly in navigating complexities arising from rapid changes in technology, including AI and digital transformation.
With the platform slogan 'Risk Focused. Future Ready.', Schabel lays out the critical importance of internal audit in steering organizations through turbulent waters. Her priorities include reinforcing internal audit’s role as a strategic advisor, advancing integrated assurance efforts globally, enhancing advocacy initiatives, and investing in the professional development of future leaders in the field.
Reflecting on her new role, Schabel stated, "I'm deeply honored to serve as The IIA's Chair of the Global Board at such an important moment for the profession." With a notable awareness of the growing disparity between strategic risks and traditional audit focuses, Schabel aims to realign methodologies to enhance the value delivered to stakeholders and organizations, reinforcing the profession’s relevance.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to the internal audit profession, Schabel has received numerous accolades, including a spot in the Diligent Modern Governance 100 Honorees and the Crain's Detroit Business Notable Woman in Finance honor. As her term begins, it is noteworthy that Dr. Hussam Alangari has been appointed Senior Vice Chair for the 2026-2027 term, preparing to succeed her as Global Board Chair in 2027-2028.
The IIA, a professional association established in 1941, serves over 265,000 members worldwide and is recognized as a leader in setting standards, providing education, and offering technical guidance in the field of internal auditing. With Schabel at the helm, The IIA is poised to navigate a future where the internal audit profession plays an increasingly integral role in organizational leadership and risk management strategies.