Meet the Auditor: Nothando Masanabo
As part of Internal Audit Awareness Month, we’re highlighting the professionals helping organisations strengthen assurance, improve accountability, and modernise the way assurance is delivered.
For this feature, we spoke to Nothando Masanabo about her journey into internal audit, the role of technology in modern assurance, and why curiosity is still one of the most valuable traits an auditor can have.
Tell us about your role at SurTech
I’m a Client Partner focused on the Public Sector at SurTech.
My role involves working closely with organisations to support governance, risk, and assurance initiatives while helping them modernise the way they approach audit and compliance through technology-driven solutions.
What brought you into internal audit and governance?
I started off studying Accountancy and eventually specialised in Internal Audit. That journey later led me into IT auditing, where I developed a strong interest in governance, risk, and technology.
While I enjoyed the profession, I was drawn to SurTech because it gave me the opportunity to combine my audit background with innovation and digital transformation — while still making a meaningful impact within the public sector.
What inspired you to pursue internal auditing?
I was inspired by the problem-solving aspect of internal audit and the opportunity to help organisations improve. Audit gives you a unique, independent view across the entire organisation, which makes the work both challenging and rewarding.
What skills are most important for modern auditors?
Critical thinking, professional skepticism, communication, adaptability, and data analysis are all essential skills for modern auditors.
Auditors today also need to understand technology and translate complex risks into practical business insights.
What’s the most auditor thing about you outside of work?
Being inquisitive. In conversations, I probably ask too many questions just to satisfy my curiosity.
What phrase does every auditor hear weekly?
“This is how we’ve always been doing it.”
What’s one thing AI will never replace in audit?
Ethical reasoning and professional judgment.
What’s your green flag that tells you about an organisation that takes governance seriously?
When leadership views assurance providers as strategic partners, welcomes difficult conversations, and treats audit findings as opportunities for improvement.”
How is technology or AI changing internal audit?
Technology and AI are helping auditors move from reactive to proactive assurance. Near real-time reporting allows organisations to make more meaningful and timely decisions.
Why is auditing the coolest job in the world?
No two engagements are ever the same.
Internal audit gives you exposure to different industries, systems, people, and challenges — while also giving you the opportunity to make a real impact on governance and organisational success.
As Internal Audit Awareness Month continues, professionals like Nothando remind us that modern audits are about far more than compliance — it’s about curiosity, insight, adaptability, and helping organisations improve.
At SurTech, we’re proud to work alongside professionals helping shape stronger governance across South Africa.
