Effective internal auditing requires ongoing communication with the board and senior management so the internal audit function remains informed about changes in objectives, strategies, risks, priorities, and stakeholder expectations. Continuous communication enables the CAE to determine whether planned engagements remain relevant and whether emerging risks require changes to audit priorities. Reporting responsibilities are normally formalized through the internal audit charter rather than simply established operationally by management. The Global Internal Audit Standards are authoritative professional requirements, but effective internal auditing may also consider applicable laws, regulations, frameworks, and organizational requirements. Planning engagements aligned with strategy is important, but option D alone does not capture the continuing interaction necessary to maintain relevance. Therefore, ongoing communication with senior management and the board is the most accurate statement.