HAYLEY, MAY 25
“The recent external audit and financial statement preparation were executed with professionalism and thoroughness. The auditor team demonstrated strong technical expertise and diligence, ensuring the process was both comprehensive and transparent. Their approach to testing, particularly in collaboration with the ASCL PD team during the first week, was highly effective and contributed to a smooth progression of the audit work, especially given its proximity to the annual conference. One area of improvement would be the timeline planning. The current schedule presents significant pressure in ensuring all necessary work is completed within tight deadlines. We have already discussed the potential benefits of moving some of the audit activities forward and setting clear dates in advance. Proactively scheduling key milestones would allow for better resource allocation and smoother execution. Another area of improvement would be the team working with their internal colleagues to check the partial VAT and advise on the changes to make for the next financial year. Additionally, the format and content of the audit findings report received positive feedback from elected officers. Its clarity and structure enabled effective review and discussion, reinforcing its value in financial oversight. Overall, the service provided was impressive, and the auditors’ commitment to delivering a high-quality review is appreciated. With a few refinements to planning and scheduling, the process could become even more efficient in future audits.”