In this episode of 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑾𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝑨𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒕, our guest is Margaret-Ann Brooks, Vice President and Chief Audit Officer at Co-operators Group in Canada. With over 20 years of experience in internal audit, Margaret has risen through the ranks, embracing the CAO role in 2023. Known for her ability to lead change, Margaret brings a strategic vision to the field, empowering her team and fostering a collaborative culture rooted in the cooperative values of her organization.
Margaret shares her early journey in audit, reflecting on her natural curiosity and drive to understand complex issues, which led her to a career where she could make a difference. We discuss her recent return to audit, her vision for innovation, and her approach to rebranding the audit function at Co-operators.
Margaret’s focus on empathy and relationship-building within audit is inspiring, as is her commitment to mental health and resiliency - a cause she champions within her organization. She’s even authored a children’s book, Grandpa’s Butterfly, to help young readers cope with grief and loss. Get the book here:
Canada - https://www.amazon.ca/Grampas-Butterfly-Margaret-Ann-Brix/dp/1988215080
US - https://www.amazon.com/Grampas-Butterfly-Margaret-Ann-Brix/dp/1988215080.
Throughout this conversation, Margaret demonstrates the power of listening, the importance of pacing change, and the value of staying connected to both people and purpose. Her approach to leadership in audit is refreshing, showing how transformational change can be both strategic and deeply human.
Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of the Canada’s leading voices in internal audit. Tune in and be inspired!
Episode Breakdown:
2:34 - Curiosity Paved Her Path to Audit
10:06 - Inspiring New CAEs as CAO
13:39 - Rebranding an Established Audit Team
21:08 - Tackling Traditional Audit Reporting
29:57 - Excitement & Benefits of New Reporting
35:53 - Co-operation Culture at Cooperators
40:13 - Workplace Mental Health Advocates
43:38 - Margaret's Book: Grandpa's Butterfly
48:47 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
Be sure to connect with Margaret on LinkedIn.
And be sure to follow Inspiring Women in Audit on LinkedIn, and connect with Tracie.
Join the Exclusive Inspiring Women in Audit LinkedIn Group: This group is dedicated to empowering and uplifting women in the internal audit profession, providing a supportive space for women to share their journeys, insights, and expertise. By fostering meaningful connections, we aim to inspire, encourage, and drive transformative change within the industry. Join us to celebrate the achievements of women in audit and to be part of a community that values and amplifies your unique perspectives and experiences.
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