Internal and external auditors check organisations' financial records and procedures to make sure they are accurate and efficient.


Typical Salary

£19,000 – £65,000

per year

Working Hours

37–39

hours per week

Career Area

Chartered and certified accountants

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Day-to-day tasks

In your day-to-day duties you might:

  • examine company accounts
  • identify any risks to the business
  • assess the company's financial reporting systems
  • interview staff to gather evidence
  • observe business processes
  • analyse financial data
  • make recommendations for improvements

Skills needed

  • knowledge of economics and accounting
  • maths knowledge
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • business management skills
  • customer service skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly
  • training with a professional body

Career progression

As an experienced external auditor, you could move into management and then become a partner or finance director. You could also set up your own accountancy practice.

As an experienced internal auditor, you could move into a management role. You could also become a chartered internal auditor, or become a self-employed consultant.