“Three Lines of Defense” – how often have those words rolled off your tongue in the last few years? Internal Audit may be “third” in the Lines of Defense but is clearly an equally critical component of this risk and control framework alongside Line of Business Management and various Control and Oversight func- tions such as Compliance and Risk Management. The Internal Audit function continues to receive increased focus from Board of Directors and regulators as evidenced by the evolution of what are now known as Heightened Standards. This “Third Line” is truly an independent, respected, and essential component of any effectively managed duciary business. Please join Keith for a critical review of today’s demands for not only a conforming audit function but also for insights into leading industry best practices.