Technology must be monitored to verify that standards are being met, and IT audit managers oversee teams who check for systems compliance. Previous experience in technology and the minimum of a bachelor's degree are required to enter this field, as is management training and experience. Prospective IT audit managers should have strong leadership skills, the ability to stay organized, and possess excellent communication skills.
Essential Information
IT (information technology) audit managers oversee a team of auditors and ensure their investigation is in compliance with company and government standards. These investigations deal with computer network mismanagement, fraud, and inefficiency. The job requires a bachelor's degree in an IT-related field, with additional employer education preferences including graduate degrees. This career might appeal to individuals with interests in computers, auditing, and business operations.
| Required Education | Bachelor's degree in IT-related field; master's degree preferred by some employers |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) | 10%* (for computer and information systems managers) |
| Median Annual Salary (2020) | $110,307** (for information systems audit manager) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, **PayScale.com
Job Description
IT audit managers direct a team of internal IT audit staff who monitor a company's computer network for possible mismanagement, fraud, and inefficiency. These managers must ensure that IT audit practices comply with company procedures and government regulations. IT audit managers don't just point out system flaws; they also promote efficient practices by recommending improvements in processing capability, user interface, and security designs.
A significant portion of this job deals with evaluating IT accounting practices to trace a company's resources. As managers implement auditing policies, they make sure that their institution has adequate technology and system controls to meet business objectives and customer needs.
Job Duties
IT audit managers are responsible for monitoring IT systems to ensure they follow policies and practices. They must evaluate technology, manage staff, identify controls, and keep records. In addition to monitoring IT systems, IT audit managers act as mentors so each IT staff team member has the proper expertise. They ensure that staff has a solid understanding of auditing procedures and necessary independence to conduct their own investigations. IT audit managers compile a vast array of data into a coherent report for the audit committee.
Education Requirements
IT audit managers should possess at least a bachelor's degree in a business, accounting, or an IT-related field. Employers favor applicants with a master's degree in accounting or business administration and a certified public accountant (CPA) or certified information systems auditor (CISA) credential; according to November 2011 job postings on CareerBuilder.com, substantial work experience, generally about 5-10 years of auditing-related practice, is a common requirement for most IT audit manager positions. New IT auditor managers can also take training seminars through the Institute of Internal Auditors to hone their management skills.
As team leaders, IT auditor managers must retain authority, encourage creative problem solving, and promote a constructive work environment among their staff. They must be able to direct audit functions while understanding the risks associated with current and emerging technologies. Successful managers are effective planners, communicators, and teachers.
Salary Info and Job Outlook
As of March 2021, PayScale.com indicated that information systems audit managers earned an annual salary of $110,307. Projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS,) implied that open positions for computer and information systems managers in general would grow by 10% during the 2019-2029 decade, which is a faster rate or growth in comparison to other career fields.
IT audit managers oversee and direct team members as technology databases are audited and reviewed for all levels of compliance. Education requirements usually include a bachelor's degree and extensive work experience, but some employers may prefer candidates who hold graduate degrees. Management professionals in the computer and information systems industry can expect a fast rate of job growth between 2019 and 2029, which may make it easier for IT audit managers to find new employment opportunities.
