Audit Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of accountability, the role of audit managers has never been more critical.
As business complexities grow, so does the demand for proficient individuals who can meticulously review, evaluate, and fortify our financial systems.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an audit manager?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of audit management,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable audit manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Audit Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Audit Managers play a critical role in ensuring that a company’s financial and operational activities comply with the established laws, standards, and internal policies.
They oversee and manage a team of auditors to achieve this goal.
Here are the typical duties and responsibilities of an Audit Manager:
- Plan, design and implement an overall risk management process for the organization
- Lead or supervise internal audits to verify the accuracy of financial records, transactions, and procedures
- Prepare and present reports that reflect audit results and document the process
- Identify areas of financial and operational risk within the organization
- Ensure compliance with all applicable directives and regulations
- Review, assess and manage the work of audit team members
- Train and mentor junior members of the audit team
- Conduct follow-up audits to monitor management’s interventions
- Engage in continuous knowledge development regarding sector’s rules, regulations, best practices, tools, techniques and performance standards
- Liaise with other managers and staff throughout the organization to ensure that the internal systems and controls are in place
Audit Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Audit Manager to join our team.
In this role, you will plan and manage audits, ensure compliance with regulations and laws, and evaluate the efficacy of risk management processes.
Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of audit procedures, laws and regulations, and possesses strong leadership skills.
The role of the Audit Manager is to ensure that our company’s operations are functioning correctly, with the ultimate goal of enhancing our organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Responsibilities
- Plan, implement and oversee internal audits in accordance with the audit plan
- Identify and assess areas of significant business risk
- Manage resources and audit assignments
- Identify and reduce all business and financial risks through effective implementation and monitoring of controls
- Develop, implement and maintain internal audit policies and procedures in accordance with local and international best practice
- Compile and implement the annual Internal Audit plan
- Conduct ad hoc investigations into identified or reported risks
- Oversee risk-based audits covering operational and financial processes
- Ensure all audit findings are properly communicated with management and appropriately tracked through resolution
- Provide advice on internal control and participate in enhancing internal audit standards and practices within the company
Qualifications
- Proven experience as an Audit Manager
- Proficient in MS Office and knowledge of relevant accounting software
- In-depth understanding of auditing and control practices
- Updated knowledge of applicable laws and regulations
- Proficient in risk analysis and report writing
- BSc/BA degree in Accounting, Finance or relevant field; master’s degree and professional certification (e.g. CPA, CMA, CISA) are a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Audit Manager
- Work Environment: Predominantly office setting with occasional travel for on-site audits. Remote work options may be available.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Internal Audit or Chief Financial Officer.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Audit Manager Do?
Audit Managers work in a variety of industries including finance, government, non-profit organizations, and corporations.
They are primarily responsible for overseeing the internal audits of an organization.
They plan and manage audits to review and evaluate the accuracy, timeliness, and relevance of accounting records and procedures.
Their main objective is to ensure that the organization is in compliance with legal regulations and company policies.
Audit Managers work closely with other members of the management team to develop the organization’s auditing policies and procedures.
They ensure that these policies are implemented effectively and consistently across the organization.
In addition to conducting audits, they are also tasked with analyzing data to identify financial risks and inefficiencies.
They propose recommendations for improving financial management systems and controls based on their findings.
Audit Managers typically present their audit findings and recommendations to the organization’s senior management.
They may also be responsible for training and supervising junior audit staff.
They must keep abreast of changes in financial regulations and legislation that may impact the organization, and ensure that the organization is prepared to meet these changes.
Audit Manager Qualifications and Skills
An Audit Manager should have the necessary skills and qualifications that align with your job description.
These include:
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles and auditing standards to ensure that all audits are carried out in accordance with these regulations.
- Exceptional attention to detail to be able to identify any discrepancies or irregularities in the financial data.
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to evaluate the efficiency of controls and to assess the level of risk in various business processes.
- Good project management skills to be able to plan, execute and monitor the progress of audits in a timely and efficient manner.
- Effective communication skills to relay audit findings and recommendations to senior management and to facilitate discussions with various stakeholders.
- Strong leadership and team management skills to lead and coordinate a team of auditors.
- Proficiency in using auditing software and other related tools to streamline the audit process.
- Relevant certification such as a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) may be required.
Audit Manager Experience Requirements
Entry-level candidates for the role of Audit Manager generally require a minimum of 5 years of experience in auditing or a related field.
This experience can be gained through positions such as Junior Auditor or Financial Analyst.
It is crucial for these professionals to have a deep understanding of audit procedures, rules, and regulations, often gained through hands-on, on-the-job experience.
Candidates with 7 to 10 years of experience are typically more suited for the Audit Manager role, as they have had ample time to hone their skills and knowledge in auditing, corporate finance, and risk management.
This experience often includes time spent in roles such as Senior Auditor or Audit Supervisor.
Those with more than 10 years of experience are viewed as highly experienced in the field.
They often have extensive leadership experience and have managed teams of auditors.
At this stage, candidates may also have worked as Audit Directors or in other high-level auditing roles.
In addition to the years of experience, candidates are often required to hold relevant certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance is typically expected.
A Master’s degree in a related field can further enhance a candidate’s qualifications.
Experience with auditing software and systems, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, are also highly valuable in this role.
Audit Manager Education and Training Requirements
Audit Managers generally hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business or a related field.
This provides them with a strong foundation in financial analysis, economics, and risk management.
In addition to this, many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in accounting or business administration, which offers specialized and advanced financial knowledge.
Audit Managers are also required to obtain certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).
These certifications demonstrate an individual’s expertise and commitment to the field of auditing.
The job also requires a sound understanding of accounting software, as well as strong analytical and mathematical skills.
Further, Audit Managers should possess several years of experience in the auditing field, often with progressive responsibility.
Continuing education is important for staying current with changes in laws and regulations, and many Audit Managers take advantage of professional development opportunities and ongoing training programs.
In addition to formal education and certification, Audit Managers need strong leadership skills, as they are often responsible for overseeing teams of auditors, and they need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with various stakeholders.
Audit Manager Salary Expectations
An Audit Manager typically earns an average of $90,000 (USD) per year.
The actual salary may vary based on experience, qualifications, and the location of the job.
Audit Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Audit Manager need?
Audit Managers need to have a combination of analytical and communication skills.
They need to be able to review a company’s financial statements and systems for accuracy, understand complex financial information and identify discrepancies.
In addition, they should have excellent leadership and team management skills, attention to detail, and a high level of integrity.
Do Audit Managers need a degree?
Yes, Audit Managers usually need a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business or a related field.
Many employers also require candidates to have a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation.
Additionally, experience in auditing and a thorough understanding of audit principles, practices and regulations are required.
What should you look for in an Audit Manager resume?
When reviewing an Audit Manager’s resume, you should look for a degree in a relevant field, certifications such as CPA or CIA, and experience in auditing.
You should also look for experience in managing teams, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of auditing software and systems.
It is also beneficial if they have experience in your specific industry.
What qualities make a good Audit Manager?
A good Audit Manager is detail-oriented and has a high level of integrity.
They should have excellent analytical skills to identify discrepancies in financial statements and the ability to manage and motivate a team of auditors.
They should also have strong communication skills to effectively present audit findings and recommendations to management and clients.
Is it difficult to hire Audit Managers?
Finding qualified Audit Managers can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.
The high demand for these professionals can make the recruitment process competitive.
Employers may need to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain top talent.
Additionally, the ongoing need for professional development and industry-specific knowledge can add another layer of complexity to the hiring process.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the intricate and essential role of an audit manager.
Surprised?
It’s not just about crunching numbers.
It’s about safeguarding an organization’s integrity, one financial statement at a time.
With our detailed audit manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But why limit yourself?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every financial statement is a part of the bigger picture.
Let’s safeguard that integrity. Together.
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