Internal Audit Director/Manager

Owned by Steven Piliero
Last updated: May 20, 2024
2 min read

Name: David "Dave" Kim

Age: 38

Education: Master's in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, B.S. in Accounting from Indiana University

Professional Background:

  • 12+ years of experience in public accounting, focusing on audit and assurance services for large commercial and public sector organizations.

  • Focus areas: Leading audit teams, managing client relationships, developing audit plans, executing audit procedures, and reviewing workpapers.

  • Previous roles: Audit Manager at a Big Four accounting firm, Senior Associate at a national accounting firm, Staff Accountant at a regional accounting firm.

  • Special certifications or skills: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Project Management Professional (PMP)

Industry: Accounting and Audit

Responsibilities:

  • Plan and execute audit engagements, overseeing the work of audit teams and ensuring adherence to professional standards and deadlines.

  • Manage client relationships, addressing client concerns and questions, and providing updates on audit progress.

  • Review audit work papers for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with auditing standards.

  • Identify and assess audit risks and control deficiencies, and develop recommendations for improvement.

  • Mentor and develop junior audit staff, providing guidance and feedback on their work.

Goals:

  • Deliver high-quality audit services that meet or exceed client expectations and regulatory requirements.

  • Build strong relationships with clients and colleagues, fostering trust and collaboration.

  • Develop and mentor a high-performing audit team.

  • Advance within the firm and take on increasing levels of responsibility.

Challenges:

  • Balancing multiple audit engagements with tight deadlines and competing priorities.

  • Managing and motivating audit teams, especially during busy season.

  • Staying up-to-date on evolving auditing standards and regulatory requirements.

  • Communicating complex audit findings and recommendations to clients in a clear and concise manner.

Motivations:

  • Solving complex problems and uncovering the "truth" behind financial information.

  • Helping organizations improve their internal controls and financial reporting processes.

  • Building a successful career in public accounting and becoming a trusted advisor to clients.

  • Mentoring and developing junior audit staff and contributing to their professional growth.

Tech-Savviness:

  • Proficient in using audit software, data analytics tools, and collaboration platforms.

  • Comfortable with leveraging technology to automate audit procedures and streamline workflows.

  • Open to exploring new technologies that can enhance audit efficiency and effectiveness.

Behavioral Traits:

  • Detail-oriented and organized, with a strong focus on accuracy and quality.

  • Analytical and critical thinker, able to identify potential risks and weaknesses in financial information.

  • Excellent communicator and collaborator, able to build rapport with clients and team members.

  • Decisive and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Sources of Information:

  • Professional auditing standards and guidelines (e.g., PCAOB, AICPA).

  • Industry publications and research on audit and compliance (e.g., The Journal of Accountancy, Compliance Week).

  • Regulatory updates and guidance from relevant agencies (e.g., SEC, PCAOB).

  • Networking with other audit professionals and attending industry events.

Quote:

"Audit is about more than just numbers; it's about understanding the story behind the financial statements and ensuring that it's accurate, complete, and reliable. By working collaboratively with our clients, we can help them strengthen their controls, mitigate risks, and achieve their business objectives."