In 2024, Reg du Preez PMIIA CIA and his team at Australian Retirement Trust were recognised with the Internal Audit Team of the Year Award for their outstanding contributions to building a high-performing, in-house internal audit function. Reg has since moved into a new role as General Manager, Risk at Australian Retirement Trust, continuing to drive value and strengthen governance across the organisation. In this interview, he reflects on his team’s achievements, the impact of the award, and his vision for the future.
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Q&A with Reg du Preez PMIIA CIA
How did you feel when you won the Award?
Winning the award was an incredible honour. I feel immensely proud of our dedicated team and of the hard work we’ve put in over the past years to build a robust in-house internal audit function. Our journey has been one of collaboration, commitment, and continuous improvement, and receiving this recognition is truly rewarding.
What have you done since receiving the Award?
Since winning, we’ve taken the time to celebrate our achievement together as a team. There has been great recognition for our work across the organisation, and we recently had the opportunity to showcase our team and share our story at a Board Committee meeting. The award has served as a catalyst for reflection and renewed motivation.
Has the Award provided any new opportunities or recognition with your peers, organisation?
Absolutely. The award has sparked a lot of positive attention. Many peers from across the industry have reached out to congratulate me and our team, which has been both humbling and energising. Internally, there’s been a noticeable uplift in appreciation and acknowledgement of our role, and it's strengthened our position within the organisation.
What do you love most about your job?
There is so much I appreciate about my role. I work with a talented, passionate team, and I’m grateful for the trust and empowerment I receive from the Board Committee. The opportunity to add real value to the organisation and to help shape its direction is deeply fulfilling.
What do you like to do in your spare time? (non-work related)?
Outside of work, I’m an avid sports fan - rugby union. I also enjoy playing chess and am a keen ballroom dancer. These activities give me a great sense of balance and help me recharge.
What has been your biggest challenge in the past 12 months?
The most significant challenge has been keeping ahead of a continually evolving regulatory landscape and managing transformation within the business. Ensuring our audit plan remains risk-based and relevant as things change has required adaptability and focus.
What are your goals for the coming 12 months?
Looking ahead, I’m keen to enhance our data analytics capability and to embrace artificial intelligence in our work. These innovations will help us deliver greater value and ensure our internal audit function remains at the forefront of best practice.