Exploring a Career Transition: From ERP Analyst to Audit Specialist
As a seasoned ERP and business systems analyst with six years of experience under my belt, I’ve observed that my skills could naturally lead me toward a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification. Having spent the majority of my career focused on implementation projects, I’ve discovered a particular passion for identifying and resolving errors, which aligns well with the investigative nature of auditing.
Currently, my team is in the process of implementing Workday finance, and while the project is stimulating, the workload can be overwhelming at times. Additionally, the compensation isn’t quite meeting my expectations as a W2 employee. The constant series of meetings and collaboration required on the functional side of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) often feels draining for someone who is more inclined towards technical governance and less about translating processes to end users.
Looking ahead, I am contemplating a career transition into the field of auditing once our current project concludes in a couple of years. However, I am weighing the potential trade-offs, particularly in terms of salary. Despite having a business degree but lacking any formal certifications at this stage, I wonder if pursuing a path in auditing would be viable for someone like me.
A former classmate of mine seems to be thriving in the cyber auditing field, which appears both lucrative and enjoyable. This leaves me pondering whether obtaining a CISA certification could open doors for me as a Business Systems Analyst with no direct auditing experience. Would the auditing field welcome someone with my background, and what steps might I take to ensure a successful transition?
If you have insights or advice on opportunities that might suit my skill set and interests, or experiences making a similar career move, I would greatly appreciate your input. Exploring new professional horizons is both exciting and intimidating, and any guidance would be invaluable.
One response
Transitioning from an ERP/business systems analyst role to an audit-oriented career, particularly in cyber Audit, can be both exciting and challenging. Given your interests and current situation, let’s explore some practical steps and considerations to help you make an informed decision about this career pivot.
Understand the Role: Before making a transition, familiarize yourself with the responsibilities and daily tasks of a cyber auditor. Audit roles often involve assessing internal controls, ensuring compliance with regulations, identifying risks, and recommending corrective measures. Since you enjoy investigating flaws and errors, Audit could indeed be a satisfying fit.
Certifications and Education: Earning the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, as you’ve noted, is a great step, especially if you’re keen on cyber audit. The CISA cert is recognized globally and covers topics like auditing information systems, IT governance, and risk management. As you embark on this path, also consider other certifications like Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) down the line, as these can broaden your scope and enhance your credentials.
Leverage Current Skills: Your extensive ERP and business systems experience gives you a strong foundation. Skills in problem-solving, system implementation, and process improvement are highly transferable to an audit setting, especially when evaluating systems for efficacy and compliance. Highlighting this experience can make you an attractive candidate, even without direct audit experience.
Networking and Mentorship: Reach out to professionals in the field, including your successful classmate, to gain insights into the industry. They can provide firsthand knowledge about the transition, common challenges, and expectations for new auditors. Consider joining professional groups, such as ISACA, to expand your network and gain access to valuable resources.
Job Market and Career Impact: Investigate the demand for auditors in areas you’re interested in, and research average salaries to understand the financial impact of this transition. While entry-level positions might offer a pay cut, consider potential long-term gains in job satisfaction, career advancement, and pay. Hybrid roles, like IT auditor positions within companies that use ERP systems, might also provide a good interim step.
Strategic Transitioning: If you’re concerned about starting over at a lower level, consider roles that blend both system analysis and audit, such as risk analyst or compliance analyst roles within the current company, if available. These can serve as a bridge while you build out your auditing credentials and experience