Career Transition
Hi everyone,
I’m a CPA with a strong background in tax, but I’ve recently been offered a chance to join a startup focused on IT-related audits. In this new role, I’ll be the most senior member concerning actual Audit work, which is both exciting and a bit daunting.
I would greatly appreciate any recommendations for resources or CPE courses that could help me excel in this area. I take my responsibilities seriously and want to ensure that I’m fully prepared and competent before conducting or signing off on any audits.
Thank you in advance for your support!
One response
Hi there!
Congratulations on your new opportunity! Transitioning to IT-related audits can indeed be a big shift, but it sounds like you have a strong foundation with your CPA background and experience in tax.
Here are some resources and suggestions to help you navigate this career change:
CPE Courses: Look for Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses focused on IT auditing. Organizations like the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) offer various relevant certifications and training, such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), which can provide a deeper understanding of IT governance and risk management.
Webinars and Workshops: Many Accounting and auditing professional organizations host webinars and workshops specifically tailored to IT audits. This can be a great way to gain knowledge and see real case studies that may relate to your new role.
Books: Consider reading books like “IT Auditing: Using Controls to Protect Information Assets” by Chris Davis and “The IT Audit Handbook” by Paul R. Williams. They provide practical insights and dive into frameworks and methodologies relevant to IT auditing.
Networking: Join professional groups or forums focused on IT auditing, such as the ISACA local chapters or LinkedIn groups. Connecting with professionals in the field can help you gain insights and advice based on their experiences.
Mentorship: If possible, find a mentor who has experience in IT auditing. Their guidance can be invaluable, especially when you’re navigating the specifics of auditing within a startup environment.
Online Resources: Websites like Coursera and Udemy offer online courses focusing on IT auditing and security. Look for courses that have high ratings and cover the fundamentals.
Practitioner Guides: Familiarize yourself with frameworks such as COBIT, NIST, and ISO 27001, which provide guidelines for IT governance and risk management.
Remember, it’s important to lean on your skills as a CPA while building your knowledge in IT auditing. Being thorough and seeking the right resources will definitely serve you well. Best of luck in your new role!
Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions or need more tailored advice!