OIG Audits Demystified: What Every Federal Contractor Should Know
Office of Inspector General (OIG) audits are an increasingly important oversight mechanism for federal agencies seeking to evaluate contractor performance, program effectiveness, compliance, and the use of government funds. Even when no misconduct is alleged, an audit can create substantial legal, operational, and reputational risks, particularly when findings appear in public reports or prompt follow-on scrutiny from agency officials, enforcement authorities, or other stakeholders. Yet many practitioners are more familiar with investigations than with the audit function and the distinct authorities, objectives, and methodologies that drive OIG audit work. This Wiley program will examine the statutory foundations of federal OIG audits, the tools and authorities available to auditors, and the key distinctions between audits and investigative matters.
Join White Collar partner Diana Shaw, former Acting Inspector General for the Department of State, and Government Contracts partner George Petel, a former certified public accountant, as they break down the typical lifecycle of an OIG audit, including planning and scoping, audit notifications, document and information requests, interviews, draft findings, and final reports. The program will provide practical guidance on preparing for and navigating an audit, including managing auditor interactions, organizing internal response teams, preserving credibility, protecting legal interests, and positioning the organization for a successful outcome. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how OIG audits operate and actionable strategies to reduce disruption and manage risk when faced with federal scrutiny.
