Auditors are professionals who examine and verify a company's financial records and processes to ensure accuracy, legal compliance, and the prevention of fraud. Their work helps organisations understand their financial health and ensures that they are following regulations set out by governing bodies. Auditors can work either internally within a company (internal auditors) or for an external organisation that reviews other companies' accounts (external auditors). The role involves analysing financial statements, conducting interviews, reviewing procedures, and preparing detailed reports of their findings. Auditors need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of financial and legal regulations. Many auditors hold professional qualifications such as ACCA, ACA, or CIMA. The career can offer diverse opportunities, including specialisation in sectors like government, banking, or IT audit.
Trainee auditors in the UK typically earn between £22,000 and £28,000 per year, while experienced auditors can earn between £35,000 and £55,000. Senior auditors or audit managers may earn £60,000 or more.
As of 2023, there are approximately 43,000 auditors and accounting professionals employed in the UK.
Major employers include the Big Four accountancy firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), as well as public sector bodies such as the National Audit Office and local government.
Internal auditors work within organisations to assess and improve risk management, control processes and governance. They help ensure that a company is operating efficiently and complying with laws and regulations.
Forensic auditors specialise in investigating financial records to uncover fraud, embezzlement or other financial crimes. They often work with law enforcement or legal teams to provide evidence in court cases.
IT auditors focus on reviewing and evaluating an organisation's information technology systems. They ensure that data is secure, systems are efficient and risks related to technology are managed properly.
Focus on subjects like Mathematics, Business Studies, or Economics to build a strong foundation for further studies in finance or accounting.
Achieving good grades in relevant subjects at GCSE and A-level is important for university entry or apprenticeship schemes. Maths and business-related courses are particularly valued and will help you develop analytical and numeracy skills that are crucial for an auditor.
Pursue a university degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or consider a higher apprenticeship in accountancy or audit.
Many auditors hold a relevant degree, which typically takes three years to complete in the UK. Alternatively, you can apply for a higher or degree apprenticeship with an accountancy firm, allowing you to earn while you learn and gain practical experience.
Study for a professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA to become a chartered accountant and auditor.
Once you have a degree or equivalent, you will need to complete a recognised professional qualification. This usually involves a combination of exams and work experience, and can take three to four years. Employers may sponsor your training.
Join an accountancy firm or public sector organisation as a trainee auditor or junior accountant.
Most large accountancy firms offer graduate training programmes that provide structured learning and hands-on audit experience. Public sector bodies, such as the National Audit Office, also recruit trainee auditors.
Complete the work experience required by your professional body while gaining exposure to different types of audits.
You will need to log evidence of your practical work experience as part of your professional qualification. This will typically involve working on audits of various organisations and learning from senior auditors.
After qualifying, consider specialising in a particular type of audit or progressing to senior auditor or audit manager positions.
With experience, you can move into more senior roles, such as audit manager or partner, or specialise in areas such as forensic audit, IT audit, or risk management. Continuing professional development is important to maintain your skills and knowledge.
Pursue advanced certifications or training, such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or qualifications in forensic auditing.
Further qualifications can help you stand out in specialist areas and enhance your career prospects. You may also wish to join professional bodies and attend industry conferences to stay up to date.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Auditor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree, then join a graduate scheme to complete further training to become an auditor.
Employers will accept a range of degree subjects. Relevant subjects include:
You'll usually need:
You may be able to complete an apprenticeship to qualify as an internal auditor, while working with a company.
You could do a:
You'll usually need:
You can join a company as a trainee auditor, or move into auditing by being seconded to an internal auditing team from another department.
You'll usually need at least A level qualifications or equivalent, and you'll be expected to take further training as your career develops.
You can qualify to audit public sector organisations through an apprenticeship or graduate scheme with the National Audit Office.
To be an external auditor, you'll need to be a qualified chartered accountant and a member of one of the following professional bodies:
You'll need to be a member of the The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy to carry out audits in the public sector.
If you're qualified as an accountant with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), you can carry out internal audits.
You can find out more about working in auditing from the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors.
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