This month, the IIA has been promoting May as International Internal Audit Awareness Month. I’m conflicted, because as an internal auditor, I favour people being aware that my job exists. On the other hand, it has always seemed a little silly, or maybe crass even. Another word that comes to mind is tone-deaf. Don’t weContinue reading “Are you aware of internal audit?”
Author Archives: Neil
Feeling bloody young
A couple letters to the editor of CPA Magazine in this month’s issue made me feel so young again: I’m can only guess at what you were thinking, putting “It really is a bloody big deal†on the April cover. Were you trying to be hip, or edgy? CPAs are professionals and the magazine shouldContinue reading “Feeling bloody young”
Return of the Jedi (auditor)
Sometimes, people make mistakes. Recognizing when it happens and moving decisively to fix the situation is an important life skill, I think. Three years ago, I left a building materials company to start work for a Canadian retail company. At the time, I thought it was a good move for my career. The Canadian retailerContinue reading “Return of the Jedi (auditor)”
CFOs crave soft skills, but aren’t providing training
I caught the following tweet recently, and it reminded me of my most recent blog post on a survey that found finance people lacking in “value creation” skills: CFOs say soft skills are needed, but many aren’t offering training | http://t.co/kgsZg7kRjD (via .@CGMA) — CalCPA (@Cal_CPA) July 9, 2013 The tweet links to a storyContinue reading “CFOs crave soft skills, but aren’t providing training”
Finance managers are human
CFO.com has brought to my attention a survey conducted by the CEB of finance managers. They asked finance managers whether they believe their direct reports are “effective in the behaviors and skills that drive excellent performance by the finance function.” The title of CFO.com’s article gave away the answer: Finance Leaders Bemoan Talent Shortage. NotContinue reading “Finance managers are human”