Organizational independence of the internal audit activity is best demonstrated when the CAE reports functionally to the highest levels within the organization, such as the CEO or directly to the board. Functional reporting involves matters such as audit plans, frequencies, reporting, and budgeting, and it is crucial for ensuring that the internal audit function has the necessary authority and independence from management, which could influence their activities.
Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) - International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing Top of Form

Among the options, requiring potential auditors to disclose any significant stock ownership in the organization is most likely to be acceptable to a CAE aiming to ensure the integrity and independence of the internal audit function. This practice helps manage potential conflicts of interest and aligns with the principles of objectivity and independence in internal auditing standards.
The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) - Code of Ethics and International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.

An impairment to an internal auditor's objectivity when performing a review of the organization's procurement function would occur if the internal auditor worked as a sourcing specialist before joining the internal audit activity. Having previously worked in a role closely related to the function being audited, the auditor may have preconceived notions or biases that could affect their ability to perform an objective audit.
The IIA's International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing on objectivity.

It is imperative for the chief audit executive to track and develop the educational qualifications of internal audit staff to ensure that the resources needed to complete the audit plan are available. By maintaining a well- qualified audit team, the CAE ensures that the internal audit activity is equipped to address the range of risks and controls that the audit plan encompasses, thereby fulfilling its responsibilities effectively.
IIA guidance on human resources management within internal audit, which emphasizes the importance of continuing education and staff development to meet the organization's audit needs.

The board has approved the risk tolerance of the organization. Risk tolerance is the level of risk that an organization is willing to accept while pursuing its objectives before action is deemed necessary to reduce the risk. In this scenario, the board's acceptance of potential large monetary losses indicates their willingness to tolerate these losses in pursuit of expanding into a new market.
The IIA's guidance on risk management, specifically relating to defining and understanding risk appetite and risk tolerance.