7

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL

AUDIT
ROLES

Sharing Knowledge to Boost Learning | Follow Abdul Khaliq

1 INTERNAL AUDIT ASSISTANT

2 INTERNAL COMPLIANCE ANALYST

3 IT AUDITOR

4 INTERNAL AUDIT MANAGER

5 EXTERNAL AUDIT ASSOCIATE

6 EXTERNAL SENIOR AUDITOR

7 EXTERNAL AUDIT MANAGER

REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH ROLE

10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
TECHNICAL, SOFT & SYSTEMS SKILLS

QUALIFICATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS

NUMBER OF YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

POTENTIAL PROGRESSION

Sharing Knowledge to Boost Learning | Follow Abdul Khaliq

 INTERNAL
ROLE # 01 AUDIT ASSISTANT
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of internal auditing standards and
techniques.
1. Assist senior auditors in planning and • Familiarity with accounting principles, financial
reporting, and internal controls.
executing audit engagements. • Understanding of risk assessment
2. Perform audit tests on financial transactions, methodologies.
records, and internal controls.
3. Gather and analyze financial and operational
data.
4. Document audit procedures and findings.
5. Participate in interviews with company SOFT SKILLS
personnel. • Excellent analytical and critical-thinking
6. Verify compliance with internal policies and abilities.
external regulations. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
7. Assist in the development of audit • Effective communication and interpersonal
recommendations. skills.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
8. Conduct inventory counts and physical asset • Strong organizational and time management
verifications. skills.
9. Prepare audit work papers and reports.
10. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to
improve processes. SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Proficiency in using audit software and tools
(e.g., ACL, IDEA, Diligent, Auditboard) .
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel,
Word).
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.

0 TO 2 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Entry Level
• POTENTIAL Junior Auditor, Internal Auditor
PROGRESSION • A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a
related field is typically required.
• Professional certifications such as the Certified
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Internal Auditors (IIA).
COA Technical, 30% • CA, ACCA or CPA designations are highly
Sr Audit regarded qualifications as entry to the audit.
Hard Skills,
Manager • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
50%
Audit Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Manager foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Audit
auditing.
Assistant Soft Skills, 20%
 INTERNAL
ROLE # 02 COMPLIANCE ANALYST
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.
• Regulatory compliance expertise.
1. Monitor and assess compliance with • Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Risk assessment skills.
regulatory requirements and internal policies. • Strong research skills.
2. Conduct compliance audits and assessments.
3. Review documentation and records for
compliance.
4. Assist in the development and
implementation of compliance programs.
5. Investigate compliance violations and SOFT SKILLS
recommend corrective actions. • Attention to detail.
6. Keep abreast of regulatory changes and • Strong communication and negotiation skills.
updates. • Analytical thinking.
7. Prepare compliance reports for management. • Problem-solving.
8. Provide compliance training to employees. • Integrity and ethical awareness.
9. Collaborate with legal and risk management
teams.
10. Assist in the development of compliance
policies and procedures.
SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Familiarity with audit software and tools (e.g.,
ACL, IDEA, Diligent, Auditboard) .
• Familiarity with compliance software and tools
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary (e.g., compliance management systems).
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel,
Word).

1 TO 4 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Entry to Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Compliance Analyst, Compliance • Bachelor's degree in business, finance, law, or a
PROGRESSION Manager
related field.
• Professional certifications such as the Certified
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Internal Auditors (IIA).
COA • Compliance certification programs (e.g.,
Technical, 30%
Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager -
Sr Audit CRCM).
Manager Hard Skills,
50% • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
Audit Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Manager
foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Compliance auditing.
Analyst Soft Skills, 20%
 INTERNAL
ROLE # 03 IT AUDITOR
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of IT systems, networks, and
security.
1. Evaluate and assess IT controls and security • Understanding of IT audit methodologies.
• Data analysis skills.
measures. • Familiarity with relevant regulations (e.g.,
2. Conduct IT audits to identify vulnerabilities GDPR, HIPAA).
and risks. • IT risk assessment expertise.
3. Review and test IT systems, networks, and
infrastructure.
4. Analyze data and information security
practices. SOFT SKILLS
5. Assess compliance with IT policies and • Analytical thinking.
regulations. • Strong communication skills.
6. Provide recommendations for IT process • Attention to detail.
improvements. • Problem-solving.
7. Collaborate with IT and cybersecurity teams. • Adaptability in the fast-changing IT landscape.
8. Document audit findings and prepare reports.
9. Stay updated on IT security trends and
threats.
10. Assist in the development of IT audit plans.
SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Familiarity with audit software and tools (e.g.,
ACL, IDEA, Diligent, Auditboard) .
• Familiarity with IT auditing software (e.g.,
AuditBoard, TeamMate).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel,
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary Word).
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.

1 TO 4 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Entry to Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Senior IT Auditor, IT Audit Manager • Bachelor's degree in information technology,
PROGRESSION
computer science, or a related field.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING certification.
• Courses in cybersecurity and IT auditing.
COA • Professional certifications such as the Certified
Technical, 30%
Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Sr Audit Internal Auditors (IIA) .
Manager Hard Skills,
50% • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
IT Audit Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Manager
foundational knowledge and skills in internal
IT Auditor auditing.
Soft Skills, 20%
 INTERNAL
ROLE # 04 AUDIT MANAGER
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of internal auditing standards and
techniques.
1. Performing risk assessments and developing • Familiarity with accounting principles, financial
reporting, and internal controls.
audit plans. • Understanding of risk assessment
2. Conducting internal audits to assess the methodologies.
effectiveness of internal controls and
processes.
3. Reviewing financial statements, reports, and
records to ensure accuracy and compliance.
4. Evaluating operational procedures to identify SOFT SKILLS
areas for improvement and risk mitigation. • Excellent analytical and critical-thinking
5. Identifying control deficiencies and abilities.
recommending control enhancements. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
6. Conducting interviews and data analysis to • Effective communication and interpersonal
gather audit evidence. skills.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
7. Preparing audit findings and reports for • Strong organizational and time management
management review. skills.
8. Collaborating with management to develop
action plans for addressing audit findings.
9. Monitoring and following up on the SYSTEMS & TOOLS
implementation of audit recommendations.
• Proficiency in using audit software and tools
10. Staying up-to-date with regulatory (e.g., ACL, IDEA, Diligent, Auditboard) .
requirements and industry best practices. • Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel,
Word).
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.

4 TO 6 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Senior Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Audit Manager • A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a
PROGRESSION related field is typically required.
• Professional certifications such as the Certified
Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Internal Auditors (IIA) can enhance one's
qualifications and demonstrate expertise in
COA Technical, 30% internal auditing.
Hard Skills,
35% • CA, ACCA or CPA designations are highly
Sr Audit regarded qualifications as entry to the audit.
Manager • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Audit foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Manager Soft Skills, 35% auditing.
 EXTERNAL
ROLE # 05 AUDIT ASSOCIATE
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of accounting principles.
• Familiarity with audit techniques and
1. Assist in the planning and execution of procedures.
• Understanding of internal controls.
external audit engagements. • Data analysis skills.
2. Conduct audit tests on financial transactions,
accounts, and internal controls.
3. Gather and analyze financial data and
evidence.
4. Document audit procedures and findings.
5. Participate in client interviews and inquiries. SOFT SKILLS
6. Verify compliance with accounting standards • Attention to detail.
and regulations. • Strong communication skills.
7. Perform inventory counts and physical asset • Analytical thinking.
verifications. • Teamwork and collaboration.
8. Prepare audit workpapers and reports. • Time management.
9. Collaborate with audit team members to meet
project deadlines.
10. Assist in identifying and recommending
process improvements.
SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Proficiency in using audit software and tools
(e.g., ACL, IDEA, Diligent, Auditboard) .
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• ACL Analytics: Used for data analysis and
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary auditing.
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference. • CaseWare IDEA: Provides data analysis and
reporting capabilities for auditors.
0 TO 2 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Entry Level
• POTENTIAL Junior Auditor, Senior Auditor.
PROGRESSION • A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a
related field is typically required.
• Professional certifications such as the Certified
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Internal Auditors (IIA).
Partner
Technical, 30% • CA, ACCA or CPA designations are highly
Sr Audit regarded qualifications as entry to the audit.
Hard Skills,
Manager • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
50%
Audit Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Manager foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Audit
auditing.
Associate Soft Skills, 20%
 EXTERNAL
ROLE # 06 SENIOR AUDITOR
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Advanced audit and accounting knowledge.
• Proficiency in audit methodologies.
1. Lead audit engagements and manage audit • Reviewing and supervisory skills.
• In-depth understanding of internal controls.
teams. • Data analysis and report writing.
2. Develop audit plans and risk assessments.
3. Perform complex audit procedures, including
substantive testing.
4. Review workpapers and documentation
prepared by junior staff.
5. Evaluate internal controls and control SOFT SKILLS
deficiencies. • Leadership and team management.
6. Discuss audit findings and recommendations • Client communication and relationship
with clients. management.
7. Mentor and provide guidance to junior • Problem-solving and decision-making.
auditors. • Project management.
• Coaching and mentoring.
8. Ensure compliance with auditing standards
and regulations.
9. Assist in resolving accounting and audit-
related issues.
10. Collaborate with management to improve SYSTEMS & TOOLS
audit methodologies and processes.
• Proficiency in using audit software and tools
(e.g., ACL, IDEA) .
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary • ACL Analytics: Used for data analysis and
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.
auditing.
• CaseWare IDEA: Provides data analysis and
reporting capabilities for auditors.
3 TO 6 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Audit Manager, Senior Manager
PROGRESSION • A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a
related field is typically required.
• Professional certifications such as the Certified
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Internal Auditors (IIA).
Partner
Technical, 30% • CA, ACCA or CPA designations are highly
Sr Audit regarded qualifications as entry to the audit.
Hard Skills,
Manager • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
50%
Audit Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Manager foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Senior
auditing.
Auditor Soft Skills, 20%
 EXTERNAL
ROLE # 07 AUDIT MANAGER
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Expertise in audit methodologies and
standards.
1. Oversee and manage the entire audit • Strong technical accounting knowledge.
• Extensive experience in audit planning and
department or a portfolio of clients. execution.
2. Develop and implement audit strategies and • Advanced data analysis and reporting skills.
risk assessments. • Knowledge of industry-specific regulations.
3. Review and approve audit plans and work
papers.
4. Ensure compliance with auditing standards
and regulations. SOFT SKILLS
5. Act as a primary point of contact for clients • Leadership and strategic thinking.
and resolve complex audit issues. • Client and stakeholder relationship
6. Provide training and guidance to audit staff. management.
7. Monitor and assess the performance of audit • Business development and sales acumen.
teams. • Team development and coaching.
• Change management.
8. Participate in business development and client
relationship management.
9. Stay informed about industry trends and
emerging audit regulations.
10. Contribute to the development of audit SYSTEMS & TOOLS
policies and procedures.
• Proficiency in using audit software and tools
(e.g., ACL, IDEA) .
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary • Wolters Kluwer TeamMate: Provides audit
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.
management and workpaper solutions.
• AuditBoard: Offers a suite of audit, risk, and
compliance solutions.
6 TO 8 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Manager Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Manager, Director of Audit • A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a
PROGRESSION related field is typically required.
• Advanced degrees (e.g., Master's in Accounting
or MBA) may be preferred.
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING • Professional certifications such as the Certified
Internal Auditor (CIA) offered by the Institute of
Partner Technical, 30% Internal Auditors (IIA).
Hard Skills,
35% • CA, ACCA or CPA designations are highly
Sr Audit regarded qualifications as entry to the audit.
Manager • Short certifications such as the Internal Audit
Practitioner (IAP) offered by the IIA can provide
Audit foundational knowledge and skills in internal
Manager Soft Skills, 35% auditing.
Sharing
Knowledge to
Boost Learning
Follow Abdul Khaliq

Like Share Comment Follow