General Audit vs. Financial Services Audit
Hello everyone,
I’m currently interning in one of the Big Four firms, and as my internship and time at university are coming to a close, I’m preparing to apply for a few full-time positions. I plan to stay in Audit for a couple more years to meet the requirements for my country’s CPA equivalent. However, my ultimate goal is to transition into financial forensics, compliance, or a role with an investigative focus—potentially in a bank.
Currently, I’m working in the “general” Audit department, but I’m considering whether applying for positions in financial services audit might better position me for a future shift into forensics or a similar field (I understand that working in financial services audit doesn’t solely mean auditing banks).
If anyone has insights, experiences, or tips on making this transition, I would greatly appreciate your advice. Thank you!
One response
Hi there!
It’s great to hear that you’re considering your next steps as your internship comes to a close. Given your interest in transitioning into financial forensics or compliance, applying to a financial services Audit position could be a beneficial move. Here are a few insights to consider:
Industry Exposure: Financial services audits often provide exposure to regulated environments and financial institutions, which can be valuable if you’re aiming for a future role in compliance or financial forensics. Understanding the nuances of how these institutions operate, along with their regulatory requirements, can give you a significant advantage.
Skill Set Alignment: A position in financial services Audit may involve more analytical and risk assessment work, which aligns well with financial forensics and compliance roles. You may develop skills in areas like data analysis, fraud detection, and regulatory compliance, all of which are crucial in a forensic role.
Networking Opportunities: Working in a financial services Audit team may allow you to build a network of professionals in the finance and compliance sectors. This network can be instrumental in making future career transitions.
Certification and Knowledge: Financial institutions often place a high value on certifications such as CPA, CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner), or CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist). Consider pursuing one of these as you progress in your career to further strengthen your qualifications.
Educational Background: Make sure to leverage any coursework or projects from your university that relate to finance or forensics in your applications. Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences will help you stand out.
Transition Planning: If you decide to go for the financial services audit route, plan your next steps carefully. Look for opportunities to shadow colleagues in forensic or compliance roles, or seek out projects within your firm that align with your interests.
Ultimately, both general audit and financial services audit can provide valuable experience. It really depends on where you feel you’ll gain the most relevant experience and exposure to achieve your future goals. Best of luck with your applications and the next phase of your career!