Hi TS!

Merry Christmas.

As an financial auditor, i believe there are many career opportunity as you progress. Public Accounting Firms (CPA/Audit Firms) are still highly value in my opinion.

***Point to note; a lot of Co. or people will tell you that you only have audit experiences and no commercial experiences (should you join Commercial) and try to cut your pay. Think about it, if they don't want you - they won't even bother calling you up for interview. Co. are just trying to cut and slash external auditors as much as possible, i firmly believe my audit life is where i have grown into a professional in terms of exposure and learning how to use/interpret the numbers to help Cos.***

Typically, after 2-4 years in audit firm, you will have to come to a choice between the followings:-

(i) Audit (3-4 years) -> Commercial (Accountant/Analyst 1-2 years) -> Commercial (Finance Manager for another 5-10 years) then moving up to FC and then finally CFO.

Typically, moving out to commercial taking up accounts role will make your life stable and routine. Enjoy the stable income and flow with the water...

(ii) Audit (3-4 years) -> Commercial (Internal Auditor) -> Promote within the existing hierarchy, with a chance to go back into Public Accounting.

Typically, IA similar to EA, exposes you to full scope of the Co.
Business/Financial Risks of all aspect are still shown to you, more challenging compared to being (i).

(iii) Audit (3-4 years) -> Stay in audit, tahan all the way till Partner.

Well, you know that life.
I mean, you know that - its lifeless unless u hit partner =)

Per my knowledge from my HR Director from a MNC Firm, Generally Auditors are highly valued at 3years experience (obtained CPA) or 6 years experience (CPA + Managerial Role) in Commercial. Anything more then that, somewhat doesnt make any more differences.

In any case, should you be specialise in auditing banks before, ho seh!
Your future is bright =P Internal Auditor in Financial institute in Singapore is really in demand.

I am a ex-Big 4 auditor which took the (i) route.