Final answer:
The correct answer is option 2. The person who should normally not receive the final engagement communication related to a review of the purchasing cycle is the independent external auditor, as their role is distinct from the internal review and audit process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Within the context of a review of the purchasing cycle, different stakeholders with diverse roles in the organization receive the final engagement communication from the internal audit. The board of directors, representing the shareholders, is tasked with the governance and oversight of top executives and is crucial in establishing corporate governance.
The external auditor is responsible for the independent review of a company's financial records and plays a vital role in certifying the accuracy of the financial statements. The director of purchasing is involved in day-to-day operations and should be informed of findings that directly pertain to purchasing operations. Lastly, the chief audit executive typically oversees the internal audit function and would already be involved throughout the process, shaping the communication before it is finalized and distributed.
Considering these roles, the individual who normally should not receive the final engagement communication related to a review of the purchasing cycle is the independent external auditor (Option 2), as their role is separate from the internal review process, focusing instead on external audits. The engagement communication is more relevant to internal stakeholders who are directly involved in the governance, management, and execution of the purchasing cycle.