Much has been written about assurance, but mainly by those who provide it – the professionals such as internal auditors, accountants and information security technologists for the purpose of advancing their professional practices. Less is written for or by those in governance who need it for the effective discharge of their responsibilities.It is time to rethink assurance beyond its usual functional boundaries, to focus on what matters to the business and how discussions in the board room can be better supported by more joined up assurance. This book will provide practical guidance for those who need that support and for others providing it.

'Understanding the principles of joined up and coordinated risk management and internal control is increasingly key to becoming an effective director, member of senior management or head of internal audit and related assurance functions in the corporate and public sectors. This book explains the background cogently, draws on much current thinking from around the world and gives useful practical insights about effective processes. Vicky Kubitscheck writes intelligently, identifies her sources well and draws on her own considerable experiences in this important field.’

Martyn Jones, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales

‘The ability to take and control risk is one of the most important attributes of a successful organisation, but it needs to be underpinned by a healthy control environment and a rigorous control and assurance framework. In her book, Vicky Kubitscheck draws on her wealth of experience to put forward integrated approaches that balance the increasing need for insightful assurance against the demands for efficient use of resources and sensible risk taking. I have always found Vicky to be a pioneering innovator in her field, and I highly recommend her book as a source of fresh ideas.’

Malcolm McCaig, Chairman and Independent Non-Executive Director