Entry-level positions for aspiring Internal Auditors
Macartan suggests starting with accounting, a "broad field" offering diverse opportunities in various sectors, and potentially pursuing public accounting, gaining experience in audits and consulting before transitioning to internal audit. The interviewee emphasizes the value of a CPA certification, stating "that's something you take with you no matter where you go," and advocates for continuous learning to understand business operations and information flow, beneficial whether pursuing a career in accounting or entrepreneurship.
Accounting, Auditing, Public Accounting, Internal Auditing, CPA
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Macartan McElroy
Internal Audit
Compass Diversified
Villanove University
N/A
Accounting
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Video Highlights
1. Public accounting firms offer numerous entry-level opportunities for accounting graduates, ranging from international to local firms.
2. Pursuing a CPA certification is highly recommended and demonstrates a high level of competency in the field, opening doors to various accounting roles, including internal audit positions.
3. Gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work is invaluable, allowing students to learn from experienced professionals and gain a deeper understanding of business operations and information flow
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
There were numerous opportunities. It started with an interest in business, and business needs accountants. Accounting is such a broad field and can help you get jobs in a number of different companies.
You could work in a private company, a public company, or a not-for-profit company, even just as an accountant. If you start with an accounting background, that can help you land those jobs.
What I ended up doing was going into public accounting. Public accounting firms can be international, national, regional, or even local. When one company audits another, it could also involve consulting work or tax services.
These firms are constantly looking for young talent to come in and start with them. They help support the audits they are working on with the hope that if there's a good connection, you would then consider going into that position full-time.
As for being an auditor, having an accounting background is great. However, if you really want to be an auditor, I strongly suggest focusing on being an outside auditor.
I mentioned before about being a Certified Public Accountant. I think that's great. Every state has its own rules and regulations. It's hard work and a commitment. But after you get that CPA after your name, you take it with you no matter where you go, whether you go back into accounting or want to be an internal auditor.
That just shows you are at a level within this profession that is to be recognized and celebrated. As you go into situations, whether it's an internship, working part-time, or getting your first full-time job, learn everything you can.
There are people with different levels of experience. You should learn from them, learn how everyone else is doing it, and learn about the business. As you do that, it really gets your mind going and will help you as you progress through your career.
It's even helpful if you want to be an entrepreneur and start your own business. It's a great way to understand how business works and how information flows.
Advizer Personal Links
linkedin.com/in/mac-mcelroy