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Our Founder
James Paterson
James was formerly Chief Audit Executive for AstraZeneca PLC from 2002 - 2009. He has worked in a range of other corporate and commercial finance roles, including Head of Group Financial Reporting and Director of Global Leadership Development programmes.
He has been a consultant, trainer and business coach since 2010.
After working on a Masters Degree In Management - he was seconded into HR to be head of Global Leadership Development programmes for several years.
Root Cause Analysis & Culture
Getting to the underlying reasons why things can go off track and understanding the behavioural, 'human factors' that are involved.
Governance & Risk Assurance
Focusing on both accountabilities and how to ensure certainty to within defined tolerances.
Leadership & Political Savvy (Coaching)
Developing an authentic style that is able to identify and adapt to political realities.
Internal Audit
Ranging from internal audit team effectiveness to more tangible good practices including lean auditing.
Other/Miscellaneous
A range of support and training options are available to Audit Committees and teams working in Governance, Risk and Compliance, and Risk Assurance/Control.
Beyond the Five Whys: Root Cause Analysis & Systems Thinking

What our readers say...
As the world becomes ever more complex and fast paced it is imperative that we become outstanding at learning from experience. Somehow, we must get beyond blame and shame when examining why things go wrong. Otherwise, we will just repeat, and probably make bigger mistakes.
Andrew Pal, CEng, FIMechE, Leadership Coach and Organisation Consultant
Through clear explanations and real-world examples, readers will learn how to systematically identify root causes and develop effective solutions that address the underlying problems. This book is a valuable resource that professionals can read and start to apply to improve their problem-solving skills and make a positive impact within their…
Sandeep Das, Head of Internal Audit, St John Ambulance
James Paterson, a former Chief Audit Executive, tackles a topic of immense importance across all organizational sectors. The book also includes practical guidance from leaders in business, risk and audit.
Nancy Haig, CIA, CBA, CFE, CRISC, Principal – PIAC LLC
James uses a combination of real-life stories and best practice insight to present a practical approach to root cause analysis that will help shift your mindset to unleash the power of being more curious.
Damian Finio, CFO Phibro Animal Healthcare Corporation
Lean Auditing: Driving Added Value & Efficiency in Internal Audit
What our readers say...
James was fantastic. I would certainly recommend courses by him to other colleagues. James has a very engaging delivery method.
Private
Got a lot out of the course, appreciated the fact that it was just one day. A lot of content, but good, very informative. Learnt a lot; more likely to attend virtual courses now. (The course was) very focused with plenty of breaks. Pace was perfect (and) delegates had time to…
Private
James worked with me to produce a bespoke lean systems workshop. All delegates found that James’s delivery to be excellent and the content was interesting and thought provoking. An enjoyable and informative day.
Graham Harrison, Audit Manager, Dudley
The presenter was probably the best I’ve had on a IIA course. Excellent, very passionate and engaging.
Private
Thorough background knowledge. Grounded in practical audit processes and ideas to take back. Will recommend course with this tutor.
Private
