Year-end toolkit: Engaging effectively with your audit committee

In each episode of our Year-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. The conversations are relevant for all finance teams, even if it’s not year-end close time. And it’s relevant even for those not engaged in the company’s closing process – the episodes have something for everyone. In this episode, we talk about the audit committee from the perspective of management. We discuss strategies for finance teams as they prepare for audit committee meetings to elevate their effectiveness, along with the top issues audit committees are focused on for 2025. In this episode, we discuss: 2:31 – Strategies for improving management communication and collaboration with audit committees 5:00 – Key issues finance teams should prepare to address with audit committees in 2025, including: 5:23 – Impacts of the presidential administration change 8:03 – Best practices for managing the board agenda 12:50 – The role of technology transformation and AI in business 17:09 – Navigating mergers and acquisitions effectively 22:40 – Strengthening risk oversight and enhancing disclosures 26:22 – Insights into core areas of audit committee oversight, including financial reporting and controls 36:33 – Trends and best practices in public company audit committee disclosures Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for more episodes. About our guest: Stephen Parker is a partner in PwC’s Governance Insights Center, which strives to strengthen the connection between directors, executive teams, and investors by helping them navigate the evolving governance landscape. With more than 30 years of experience, Stephen has advised boards of directors on a variety of complex financial reporting matters. Stephen’s client service experience includes energy and utility companies, financial services companies, and nonprofits. About our host: Guest host Kyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance. Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com . Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.