The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Director of Internal Audit (Large Global Organisation)
5-7 years at Director levelSkills to master
- Leading multi-disciplinary audit teams, managing complex global audit programmes, presenting to executive management, strategic planning for a significant audit portfolio.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivering 100% of the audit plan within budget and scope.
- Successfully navigating complex political landscapes to deliver impactful audit findings.
- Demonstrated ability to attract, develop, and retain top audit talent.
- Strong relationships with key business unit leaders and functional heads.
- 2
Head of Risk / Chief Risk Officer (CRO)
5-10 years in a CRO or senior risk leadership roleSkills to master
- Enterprise-wide risk framework design and implementation, risk appetite definition, integrating risk management with strategic planning, managing a diverse risk function.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven ability to build and embed a robust risk culture across an organisation.
- Expertise in identifying and mitigating a broad spectrum of enterprise risks (operational, financial, strategic, reputational).
- Effective communication of complex risk scenarios to the Board and executive team.
- Strong collaboration with Internal Audit, Compliance, and other assurance functions.
- 3
Senior Partner / Practice Leader (Big Four Audit Firm)
10+ years at Partner levelSkills to master
- Client relationship management at the C-suite level, business development, leading large multi-national audit engagements, deep industry expertise, managing P&L for a significant practice area.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managing a portfolio of major clients, including Board Audit Committees.
- Recognised as a thought leader in audit, risk, or a specific industry sector.
- Proven ability to grow a practice and develop future partners.
- Deep understanding of external audit methodologies and regulatory expectations.