Following a discussion on the results of a recent audit engagement, the process owner of...

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

When an auditor finds that the process owner is accepting residual risk beyond the organization’s defined risk appetite, it is not appropriate to accept the action plan or wait until the next committee report.

Escalating to audit management (D) is the correct step. Audit management can then determine whether to escalate further to executive management or the audit committee.

Including in the next report (A) delays timely risk response.

Informing executive management directly (B) by passes the audit reporting hierarchy.

Accepting the plan (C) would be inappropriate as it ignores risk governance.

???? ISACA Reference: CISA Review Manual 27th Edition, Domain 1 (Governance and Risk Management), section on Risk appetite, residual risk, and auditor’s role in escalation.