25-Year-Old Accounting and finance Graduate from Canada Seeking Insights on Job Opportunities in the UAE
Hello everyone,
MY QUESTION: For those of you working in finance or Audit in the UAE, what are the job prospects for a 25/26-year-old Canadian university graduate who holds a CIA and CISA certification, has Big 4 experience, and possesses a US CPA designation?
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: I am an Accounting and finance graduate from Brock University in Canada, having completed my degree in April 2021. My initial goal was to earn my Chartered Professional Accounting (CPA) designation; however, as I neared graduation, I felt the need to broaden my skills and experience. Shortly after finishing my degree, I started studying for the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) exams, with the intention of pursuing the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam afterward. Consequently, I decided to temporarily set aside my CPA plans.
In August, I relocated to Pakistan for personal reasons and accepted a position in IT Audit at a Big 4 firm. While my background is in accounting and finance, I chose to shift into IT Audit due to my growing interest in the field and the desire to diversify my skillset. My role has further fueled my ambition to obtain both the CISA and CIA certifications, especially given my interest in IT General Controls (ITGCs).
I attempted Part 1 of the CIA exam in October, scoring 594—just shy of the 600 needed to pass. Though I was initially disappointed, I chose to focus on both Part 2 and a re-attempt of Part 1, studying hard for both. As I near the completion of my preparation, I remain highly motivated to succeed.
My plan is to finish my CIA and CISA certifications while gaining more experience in IT and internal audit within the Big 4 over the next year or two. Eventually, I aim to move to the UAE. Regarding my CPA, I plan to pursue it in the USA, where I am eligible to sit for the four required exams due to my Canadian citizenship, though I’ll implement this plan in about a year.
I appreciate any insights or advice you can share about breaking into the UAE job market! Thank you!
One response
Hello!
First of all, congratulations on your impressive achievements so far! Completing your CIA and CISA, along with your experience at a Big 4 firm, will definitely set you apart in the competitive job market of the UAE.
Regarding your question about job prospects in the UAE:
Demand for IT Audit Skills: The UAE has seen significant growth in its IT sector, and as organizations increasingly focus on digital transformation, the demand for professionals with IT Audit skills is on the rise. Your experience in IT Audit will likely be a strong asset when you apply for roles in the region.
Big 4 Experience: Working at a Big 4 firm is highly regarded and can open many doors, especially in the UAE, where many companies seek candidates with prestigious backgrounds. Your experience will give you a competitive edge.
Certifications: Having both the CIA and CISA certifications, along with a CPA in progress, will position you well for roles that require a combination of internal audit and IT knowledge. Employers in the UAE often look for multi-skilled candidates, and your profile fits that mold.
Networking: It’s important to start building your professional network in the UAE now, even before you move. Engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. This can help you gain insights and even job referrals when the time comes.
Cultural Adaptability: Highlighting your adaptability and international experience can also be beneficial when applying for jobs in the UAE, as many companies value diversity and the ability to work with multicultural teams.
Overall, the combination of your background, certifications, and experience will provide you with a promising scope for securing a job in the UAE finance and audit sector. Stay focused on completing your exams and gaining relevant experience, and you’ll be well-prepared to make the transition when the time comes.
Best of luck on your journey! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or need advice along the way.