Title: Seeking Insights on Job Opportunities in the UAE for a 25-Year-Old Canadian finance Grad
Hello Everyone,
MY QUESTION: I’m reaching out to professionals in the finance and Audit sectors in the UAE: What are the job prospects for a 25/26-year-old Canadian university graduate with CIA & CISA certifications, Big 4 experience, and a US CPA designation looking to enter the UAE job market?
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: I graduated with a degree in Accounting and finance from Brock University in Canada in April 2021. From the start of my university journey, my goal was to earn my Chartered Professional Accounting (CPA) designation. However, as I approached graduation, I realized the importance of expanding my skill set. Consequently, shortly after earning my degree, I began studying for the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) exams and the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) examination, temporarily putting my CPA plans on hold.
In August, I relocated to Pakistan for personal reasons and accepted a role in IT Audit at one of the Big 4 Audit firms. Although my academic background is in Accounting and finance, I became increasingly interested in IT audit and saw an opportunity to diversify my expertise. This role has motivated me to pursue both the CISA and CIA designations, particularly due to my growing fascination with IT Governance Controls.
In October, I attempted the first part of the CIA exam and scored 594—just shy of the passing mark of 600. While I was initially disappointed, I decided to focus on studying harder for both Part 1 and Part 2 of the exams. I’m currently nearing completion of my preparations and am highly motivated to succeed.
My long-term plan is to complete my CIA and CISA certifications, gain more experience in IT audit and internal audit with Big 4, and eventually relocate to the UAE within the next year or two. Regarding my CPA, I intend to pursue it in the USA—as a Canadian citizen, I am eligible to take the four required exams—though that will be a future goal for me to tackle within the next year or so.
Any insights on job opportunities or recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
One response
Hello!
It sounds like you have built a strong and diverse foundation for your career in finance and auditing, especially with your Big 4 experience and your pursuit of both CIA and CISA certifications. The UAE market, particularly in finance and Audit, is quite dynamic and often seeks professionals with specialized skills, especially those with IT Audit experience.
Given your background, here are a few points to consider regarding your prospects in the UAE:
Demand for IT Audit Professionals: As companies increasingly rely on technology, the demand for IT auditors is on the rise. Your experience in IT audit, coupled with your CISA certification, will likely make you an attractive candidate to employers in the UAE.
Big 4 Experience: Having experience from a Big 4 firm is a significant plus. Many organizations in the UAE value the training and exposure that comes with working at a top firm, which can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Certifications: Completing your CIA and CISA will further bolster your credentials. The combination of your certifications and practical experience will be advantageous when seeking positions in internal or IT audit roles.
Networking: Start building a professional network within the UAE’s finance and audit communities. LinkedIn can be a great tool for connecting with professionals already in the region. Attend industry-related webinars, and consider joining groups or associations relevant to your field.
Cultural Fit: Be aware of cultural nuances and business practices in the UAE. Having an understanding of the local business culture will help you adapt more seamlessly when you do move.
Job Market Conditions: Keep an eye on the UAE job market conditions as you near your move date. The finance and audit sectors can fluctuate, so being aware of trends will help you make informed decisions.
Long-Term Planning: It sounds like you have a solid roadmap for your career development. Completing your CPA while accumulating more experience will strengthen your profile even further.
In summary, with your unique skill set and ongoing commitment to professional development, the outlook for finding a job in the UAE finance and audit fields seems promising. Best of luck with your exams and future endeavors!