internal audit manager Job Interview Questions & Answers

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Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a internal audit manager? Don’t sweat it! On this page, we’ve listed some of the most common internal audit manager interview questions along with sample answers. Check them out below (and good luck!)

What experience do you have (if any) as a internal audit manager?

This one’s pretty simple – discuss your experience as it relates to the job you’re applying for. Of course, on the off chance you don’t have any experience in the role, plan ahead and have some examples of tangentially related experience. In doing this, you can actually turn your lack of experience into a showcase for your ability to relate and connect similar skillsets.

Answer Sample:

While my experience with x is limited, while working under y at my last job I really got to learn the ropes about z

Things are changing quickly in our industry. What do you feel are the biggest challenges within the role of internal audit manager?

No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. Regardless of your answer, be sure to have something to backup your responses.

Answer Sample:

Like many things, I belive that with change comes opportunity

What do you to ensure error free work?

To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. What they’re looking for here is some sort of system of checks and balances.

Answer Sample:

Rain or shine, I always make sure that x is reviewed 3 times over and referenced against y before it goes out the door

Describe a situation you needed to use data to prove a point?

While it may be the epitomy of ‘nerdery’, story telling through data is a critical skill for those in the financial profession. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.

Answer Sample:

Our department had been struggling for years, but by clearly illustrating the relationship between x and y, we corrected and showed record improvements in the next quarter

Tell me about a time when you received difficult feedback. How did you react?

We all love praise, and we all dislike hearing our work criticized. Any competent interviewer in the accounting profession understands that mistakes happen. What you’re going to want to do here is be sure to let the interviewer know what you did in reaction to this feedback. Was there ownership of a mistake, or deflection? By showing your cool in the reaction itself, you demonstrate leadership characteristics that employers love.

Answer Sample:

No one likes these situations, but Ive found that dealing with it factually and without predjudice tends to be the best approach

Would those that know you describe you as a detail oriented person? Why might they describe you that way?

The devil is in the details – and even more so with accounting! You’d be hard pressed to find any job in the accounting & finance industry where being detail oriented isn’t a major requirement. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.

Answer Sample:

My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year

Which online tools, cloud software, or other accounting specific platforms are you familiar with?

These days, your mastery of accounting software is practically expected. In the event that you don’t have experience with popular software, familiarize yourself with industry standards ahead of time. Take some time to ensure you are able to to name popular applications, and have a solid idea of their purpose.

Answer Sample:

The bulk of my experience lies with the x platform, but Im fascinated with some of what the y system is capable of

What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?

Every company wants to find the perfect culture match for their organization. It’s more than simply ‘the way things are done’, it’s how things are done and why. You’ll want to be careful here, indicating that you are able to thrive in a variety of work enviornments.

Answer Sample:

I succeed when given clear expectations of me and my team, and find a balance of working individually as well as alongside a team is when Im most content

Why are you leaving your last financial industry / accounting position?

This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ at your last job may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Regardless of the reason your employment ceased to be, keep it on point and do not get negative here.

Answer Sample:

Working at x was a great experience for a vareity of reasons, but now its time to seek out new challenges

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