Career Transition
Hi Everyone,
I’m a CPA with a background primarily in tax, but I’ve recently been offered an exciting opportunity at a startup focused on IT-related audits. I would be stepping into the role of the most senior member in terms of actual auditing experience, and to be honest, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. I’m reaching out to see if anyone could suggest any resources or Continuing Professional Education (CPE) that could help me succeed in this new phase of my career. I take my responsibilities seriously and would never carry out or approve an Audit unless I felt fully confident and competent in my abilities. Thank you for any guidance you can provide!
One response
Hi there!
Congratulations on your new opportunity! Transitioning into IT-related audits is a significant shift, but it’s great to see your commitment to gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.
Here are some resources and CPE recommendations that could help you on this journey:
AICPA Cybersecurity Risk Management Framework Certificate: This certification can help you understand cybersecurity risks, which is crucial for IT audits.
ISACA Certifications: Consider pursuing the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) designation. It’s widely respected in the field of IT auditing and will provide you with a solid foundation.
Online Courses: Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on IT Audit fundamentals, information systems, and cybersecurity that could be beneficial.
Books and Publications: Look for books like “Information Technology Auditing” by H. James Nelson and “Auditing IT Infrastructures for Compliance” by Robert Nordlander. These can provide insights into best practices and frameworks.
Join Professional Organizations: ISACA and the IT Governance Institute offer resources, webinars, and networking opportunities that will be valuable as you navigate this new field.
Attend Conferences: Consider attending IT Audit and cybersecurity conferences for advanced learning and to meet other professionals in the field.
Mentorship: If possible, find a mentor in the IT auditing space who can provide guidance and share their experiences.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to leverage your existing Audit skills and knowledge from tax—there will be transferable skills and concepts that can assist you as you learn more about IT auditing.
Best of luck with your new role! You’ve got this!