The new challenges for the SAI of Bulgaria require new approaches

1. The new challenges for the SAI of Bulgaria require new approaches Kosta Stoyanchev Head of Audit Planning and Analysis Department Bulgarian National Audit Office

2. Identifying and responding to new challenges Necessity – appropriate response to the changing environment and the emerging issues – (ISSAI 12, Principle 5) Strategic planning – structured approach for change, identifying challenges and finding solutions

3. Digitalization, technology development and data analysis CHALLENGES Shortage of employees and auditors with the necessary competencies ІТ systems and information security Changes in the audit methodology and implementation of audit software Broadening the scope of audit activity to include issues of digitalization and IT

4. Digitalization, technology development and data analysis SOLUTIONS/ACTIONS Recruitment of staff with proper qualifications Specialized trainings of IT specialists and actions regarding the security of information Gradual transition to electronic information exchange Specialized trainings for auditors, incl. audit software trainings

5. Changes in population structure CHALLENGES Changes in the structure of the audit staff Ensuring continuity Decreasing number of job applicants for the BNAO Workload and rotation of auditors Limited capacity to provide effective, efficient and economic audit and other services

6. Changes in population structure SOLUTIONS/ACTIONS Competition based recruitment Conducting introductory, general and specialized trainings Appointing mentors/coaches Career development Cooperation with universities Survey on employee satisfaction in order to boost motivation Methodology for auditor workload assessment

7. Independence and communication CHALLENGES Ensuring independence Communication with the National Assembly, the President and the Executive Communicating BNAO activity results New methods for presenting audit results

8. Independence and communication SOLUTIONS/ACTIONS Organization of professional forum, promoting SAI independence Media and other events to promote BNAO’s Development Strategy and the need to secure the resources needed for its implementation Proposal to amend the Public Finances Act and the Bulgarian National Audit Office Act, regarding the establishment of an autonomous budget of the BNAO Communication policy and increased media presence

9. Changes in audit work CHALLENGES Extensive knowledge of the ISSAIs and the INTOSAI Framework of Professional Pronouncement Methodology for audits with specific subject matter Ensuring adequate audit coverage Risk management in audits Ensuring audit quality Evaluating the added value from audits and their impact

10. Changes in audit work SOLUTIONS/ACTIONS New or updated audit methodologies Improved QC and QA system Strategic planning of audit activity Specialized trainings Seek feedback from auditees on the added value form our audits Conducting audits for publicity and transparency in the work of institutions and access to information

11. Changes in audit work DECISIONS/ACTIONS – Partnerships to improve weaknesses Comparison with international good practices and ISSAI – peer review and self assessment Participation in cooperative audits Working together with other institutions in Bulgaria

12. Thank you for your attention!