When Audits Become a Badge of Honour
Evidencing Best Practices
Having credit policies that spell out underwriting processes, Investment Committee approvals, and portfolio management is essential. But the real test is whether we follow those policies consistently, not just when someone is watching.
An accurate measure of integrity is not about compliance under a spotlight; it is about doing things right even when no one is looking.
At Garrington, this is more than a philosophy. It is how we operate. Our underwriting and portfolio operations teams hold each other accountable every single day. And we do not simply say we follow our policies. We prove it.
Audits: Proof of Discipline in Action
We are examined thoroughly at least six times a year. These reviews come from:
- Two on-site examinations by our bank partners, each conducted by experienced teams who review our processes from end to end.
- Two audits by an external party validating our valuation methodology and credit policy compliance
- Two financial audits, one at our entity level and the second at our fund entity level. Both audit our portfolios, treasury, financial and operations teams
Each review is broad, detailed, and technical. They are demanding, but each one reinforces that we operate with integrity, discipline, and transparency.
What an Audit Looks Like Behind the Scenes
To appreciate the level of scrutiny, it helps to picture what happens during a typical review. Every audit follows a similar format that is both personal and thorough:
- Examiners spend a full week in our offices, working alongside our team and immersing themselves in our day-to-day operations.
- They review our reporting, loan documentation, and risk controls to ensure everything aligns with our policies.
- Key areas such as cybersecurity and disaster recovery are tested, demonstrating our commitment to data integrity and system protection.
This on-site presence underscored how these audits are not abstract exercises. They involve real professionals engaging directly with our people and processes.
Why This Matters
Preparing for these audits is an all-hands effort that showcases our operational excellence. While the process can be intense, it provides validation for the systems we have built and the standards we maintain.
These reviews also highlight areas of the business that are sometimes taken for granted, such as cybersecurity. When auditors confirm these controls are strong, it is an affirmation of our team’s hard work.
A Culture of Integrity
At Garrington, we do what we say we will do. Each audit gives us the chance to demonstrate that commitment.
For us, successful audits are not just procedural requirements. They are a badge of honour.
Most importantly, they provide independent proof points that strengthen investor confidence and reinforce trust with our partners. Knowing that our operations withstand this level of ongoing review offers tangible assurance that we deliver on our commitments with discipline and transparency.
April Fund Commentary