Title: Navigating Career Transitions: Seeking Advice and Insights
Exploring New Opportunities After Leaving Internal Audit
Living in an area with limited opportunities for internal auditing (IA) roles has its challenges. As of now, I’m the sole person holding an IA position within a 150-mile radius. The larger picture is that my career path seems to have hit a roadblock.
Recently, my manager’s role was outsourced, and I’ve found myself increasingly dissatisfied with my position. I initially hoped that a change in management might positively impact my work environment, but the absence of a direct supervisor hasn’t improved my situation.
The crux of the matter is that, with 15 years of experience in retail management and another 5 in IA, I’m at a crossroads. Returning to retail, specifically at a store like Walmart, doesn’t appeal to me, and my IA skills haven’t opened doors locally.
I’d greatly value any thoughts or shared experiences from those who have faced similar transitions. Your insights could provide guidance on paving a new path in my career journey.
One response
It sounds like you’re navigating a challenging situation, and it’s understandable to feel unsettled given the limited job opportunities in your area. Transitioning from a role in Internal Auditing (IA) or considering a career shift after significant experience in a field can be daunting, but there are often more options than might initially meet the eye.
Firstly, you could explore remote IA positions. With the increasing shift towards remote work, many companies are hiring IA professionals who can perform their duties from anywhere. Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, or specialized financial and auditing job boards often list remote opportunities. Expanding your search to include these could yield some promising leads.
Another practical approach is to capitalize on your combined skills in retail management and IA to pivot into roles in corporate retail at regional or national headquarters. Positions like Compliance Officer, Risk Management, or Operations Manager within larger retail or corporate environments can be a natural progression. These roles leverage your management experience and understanding of Audit processes.
Consider also combining your skill set into a consultancy or advisory role. Many businesses, especially small to mid-size ones, look for part-time consultants who can advise on Audit practices, management strategies, and even process optimization. Starting your consultancy could allow you to control your workload and selectively choose projects that align with your interests.
Additionally, enhancing your skill set with targeted certifications such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), or even a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification could make you more competitive in both IA and management positions. These credentials not only reinforce your expertise but also increase your attractiveness to employers in a broader range of industries.
Networking is another powerful tool. Joining professional associations like The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) or local business networks can provide valuable connections and insights into job openings that aren’t advertised publicly.
Finally, consider relocating if feasible. Expanding your geographical range might open a whole world of opportunities that are simply not available in your current locale. It can be a big decision, but sometimes geographical mobility is the key to professional growth.
Remember that career transitions often come with a period of uncertainty, but they also offer a chance to find greater satisfaction and new challenges. Staying proactive and open to diverse opportunities can lead to rewarding pathways you might not have initially considered. Good luck!