Auditors are independent specialists who review the accounts of companies and organisations to ensure the validity and legality of their financial records. They can also act in an advisory role to recommend possible risk aversion measures and cost savings that could be made.

Auditors work in accounting departments and with independent chartered and certified firms, examining the money going in and out of organisations and making sure it is recorded and processed correctly

Main Activities

1. Collating, checking and analysing spreadsheet data

2. Examining company accounts and financial control systems

3. Gauging levels of financial risk within organisations

4. Checking that financial reports and records are accurate and reliable

5. Ensuring that assets are safeguarded

6. Identifying if and where processes are not working as they should and advising on changes to be made

7. Preparing reports, commentaries and financial statements

8. Liaising with managerial staff and presenting findings and recommendations

9. Ensuring procedures, policies, legislation and regulations are correctly followed and complied with

10. Undertaking reviews of wages

Education / Training 

Auditors can come from any degree background but an accounting degree will give you a strong advantage.Once you have graduated you can work as an auditing assistant and learn on the job. During this time you will study towards the accounting qualifications needed to practice as an auditor

Such Qualifications include ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) , CPA(Certified Public Accountant)

Top Skills

1. Self-motivation, determination and confidence in your abilities

2. Ability to divide your time between work and study

3. Meticulous attention to detail. 

4. Numeracy and a strong aptitude for mathematics

5. Excellent problem-solving skills

6. A keen interest in the financial system

7. Ability to work to deadlines, under pressure

8. Ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team . 

9. Strong IT skills. Alot of tasks in auditing are accomplished by software systems installed on computers. Proficiency in the use of a computer is of paramount importance

10. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including good presentation and report writing skills. Auditors interact with clients all the time so interpersonal and communication skills are paramount to thrive in the field