Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some honest, UK-specific career advice as I’m feeling a bit stuck.
I’m ACCA-qualified with around 12 years of experience, currently working in pension scheme audit. It’s quite a niche area, and while I have solid experience, I’m starting to feel like my options are limited in terms of career growth and future opportunities.
I’m now thinking about my next move over the next 1–2 years, but I’m unsure what direction makes the most sense in the current UK job market.
Options I’m considering:
Move into Internal Audit
I see quite a few roles across London/UK
But I’m unsure how transferable my pension audit experience is
Not sure about long-term prospects, especially with increasing automation/AI
Certifications
CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)
CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) / forensic accounting route
Potentially IT/Cyber-related certifications in the future
Long-term goal
I’d like to eventually start my own business (not necessarily audit-related, more impact-driven)
So I’m also thinking about whether staying in audit/internal audit limits broader exposure
My questions:
How realistic is it to move from a niche audit area into internal audit roles in the UK?
Do employers in the UK value the CIA, or is experience more important?
Between internal audit vs forensic/fraud roles, which has better demand and salary progression in the UK?
How are these fields being affected by AI/automation?
If you were in my position, would you:
Move into internal audit,
Pivot into forensics/IT audit/cyber,
Or try to exit audit completely?
I’m trying to make a smart, future-proof decision but don’t want to invest time/money into something that may not be worth it long term.
Would really appreciate insights from anyone in the UK who has made a similar move or works in these areas.
Thanks in advance!