AUDIT PARTNER JOB DESCRIPTION

Review audit partner job descriptions across public accounting, financial services, and multi-sector firms to understand what employers look for at the partner level.

Audit Partner Job Description Template

1. About the Role

An Audit Partner signs the opinion. That single act concentrates legal accountability, client trust, and firm reputation into one seat. Holding a CPA, CA, or ACCA qualification is the entry condition; sustaining a revenue-generating portfolio of statutory and non-statutory engagements is the ongoing measure. This is a Director-and-above role that governs audit quality under GAAP, GAAS, and IFRS standards while simultaneously driving the practice forward through business development and talent leadership.

2. Position Summary

You will own a diversified client portfolio and full P&L accountability for your engagements, serving as the Audit Partner who converts technical credibility into long-term client relationships and firm growth. The position operates at the practice leadership level, collaborating with fellow partners on departmental strategy and reporting to the Managing Director or equivalent firm leadership.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Attaining Responsible Individual status and signing authority under GAAS and IFRS places you among a small cohort whose professional credentials are recognized across Big 4, national, and regional markets.

Business Impact: The clients on your portfolio rely on your opinion for regulatory filings, investor reporting, and board-level governance decisions that cannot proceed without a signed audit conclusion.

Growth Opportunity: Leading engagement teams and originating new mandates builds the business development track record that advances partners into managing partner and practice leader roles.

Company Value: Firms represented in this role offer a full-service platform spanning Audit, Tax, Corporate Finance, and Advisory, giving partners access to cross-sell revenues and a broader client advisory mandate.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Own technical quality and financial performance across a portfolio of statutory and non-statutory audit engagements.
  • Lead risk assessment development and determine audit strategy, scope, and testing procedures for each engagement.
  • Review audit evidence and conclusions to ensure findings meet professional standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Manage engagement economics including budgeting, billing, collections, and resource allocation across the team.
  • Drive business development by originating new client mandates and expanding services within existing relationships.
  • Mentor and develop engagement managers and senior associates through coaching, performance feedback, and meaningful assignment opportunities.
  • Collaborate with tax, advisory, and other service lines to deliver integrated solutions to shared clients.
  • Represent the firm through industry organizations, professional networks, and thought leadership on emerging audit topics.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline, or equivalent work experience.
  • 12 or more years of public accounting experience, with significant time in client-facing audit leadership.
  • Active CPA, CA, ACA, or ACCA designation; Responsible Individual status held or in progress.
  • Deep technical knowledge of GAAP, GAAS, and IFRS, with demonstrated ability to apply standards to complex engagements.
  • Proven record of building and sustaining a client portfolio, including originating and closing new engagements.
  • Experience leading and developing multi-level audit teams across concurrent engagements.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present findings to C-suite and board-level stakeholders.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience auditing Public Interest Entities, group consolidations, or entities with complex equity and debt structures.
  • Background in a specialist sector such as financial services, not-for-profit, or life sciences that complements the firm's target markets.
  • Master's degree in Accounting or Business Administration.
  • Demonstrated cross-sell or advisory contribution alongside core audit responsibilities.

7. Success Metrics & Environment

  • Engagement portfolio revenue retention and growth, measured against prior-year billings.
  • Realization rate per engagement, reflecting how consistently scope, budget, and fee are aligned.
  • Audit file quality score on internal and external peer reviews under IIA or PCAOB inspection cycles.
  • New client origination count and value added to the practice each fiscal year.
  • Staff retention and promotion rate within directly managed engagement teams.
  • Typical tools: audit management platforms (commonly CaseWare or similar); engagement analytics (commonly IDEA or equivalent).

8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $250,000 to $400,000 depending on portfolio size and market
  • Bonus: Performance-based, typically 15% to 30% of base tied to revenue and origination
  • Equity: Partner capital contribution or profit-sharing arrangement per firm structure
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision; firm typically covers majority of premium
  • PTO: 20 to 25 days plus firm holidays; busy-season flexibility varies by firm
  • Common Perks: CPE reimbursement, professional dues, business development budget, partnership track support


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO & Legal

Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and in the performance of role responsibilities. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. A background check, including verification of professional licensure and credentials, is required as a condition of employment. Candidates must hold current authorization to work in the United States.

Audit Partner Job Description Examples

1. IT Audit Partner (Financial Services IT Audit)

The IT Audit Partner owns the annual IT risk assessment and leads global internal audit reviews across all CLSA Group entities, working proactively with auditees and relevant counterparts to strengthen the IT control environment. Reporting into the audit leadership structure of a comprehensive financial institution, the IT Audit Partner shapes the firm's compliance posture across brokerage, equities, FICC, and Assets Management business lines.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the planning, development, preparation and maintenance of the annual IT risk assessment and periodic risk updates.
  • Develop IT audit plans covering systems, projects, operating systems, database and etc.
  • Work closely with the business audit teams on business/branch audits to ensure sufficient IT coverage within the CLSA Group.
  • Work proactively and independently with auditees and relevant counterparts.
  • Demonstrate understanding on the key business cycles of a comprehensive financial institution.
  • Assist to plan and conduct global internal audit reviews across all CLSA Group entities.
  • Identify risks, assess mitigating controls, execute audit testing and make recommendations on improving IT control environment.
  • Prepare effective audit conclusions, findings and reports and communicate and influence auditees and stakeholders effectively.
  • Assist in audit team's continuous monitoring effort to cover market and regulatory events, business and technology updates.
  • Adhere to audit charter, audit methodology, Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) standards and relevant code of ethics, and regulatory requirement.
  • Based in Hong Kong, travel approximately up to 30% per year to locations including New York, London, Tokyo, Sydney, Seoul, Singapore, etc.


Required Qualifications

  • More than 12 years of work experience from internal audit departments or other IT control sectors, with at least 6 years in a managerial role.
  • Professional accreditations such as CISA, CISSP, CRISC & CISM preferred; data analytics skills will be an advantage.
  • Strong experience in IT audit with ability to effectively define audit risks and identify IT control deficiencies by considering business practices.
  • Solid understanding of key IT regulations and industry requirements; experience in brokerage, equities, FICC, Assets Management and financial business process reviews highly preferred.
  • Knowledgeable in programming, database operation, and IT system operation.
  • Takes initiative, works independently, and is a good team player with strong organisational skills.
  • Proficient in spoken Cantonese, English and Mandarin.

2. Not for Profit Audit Partner (NFP Public Accounting)

Embedded within the National NFP practice team, the Not for Profit Audit Partner delivers revenue growth and service expansion by managing key client relationships and leading cross-functional pursuits across priority NFP organizations. Working closely with industry and service line engagement teams, the Not for Profit Audit Partner ensures that qualified resources and deliverables are consistently provided to NFP clients while contributing perspective on market opportunities to firm leadership.


Core Functions

  • Achieve associated growth goals in revenue, breadth of services and establishing and management of key client relationships.
  • Open, track, close and update CRM system for account activity and opportunities.
  • Collaborate, coordinate and communicate opportunities with team members to position the client and the firm for success.
  • Identify and lead a coordinated, cross-functional team to pursue all aspects of industry relationships where you are the relationship leader.
  • Drive overall expansion and penetration of priority NFP organizations.
  • Actively participate in strategy sessions, marketing calls and events with the National, regional NFP team and associated resources.
  • Work with industry and service line engagement teams to ensure appropriate resources and deliverables are provided to NFP clients.
  • Provide routine insight into the NFP landscape and associated clients based on relevant experience and communicate it to firm leadership.
  • Ensure awareness of NFP clients' position, personnel, activity, issues and challenges in order to provide support.
  • Actively participate in and contribute to industry and service line leadership on areas of opportunity and challenge in the NFP marketplace.


Qualifications & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting and CPA license.
  • At least 12 years of public accounting experience, with significant time spent with Not for Profit organizations.
  • Excellent analytical, technical, and auditing skills with technical proficiency in NFP organizations engaging in complex transactions.
  • Exceptional client service and communication skills with a demonstrated ability to develop and maintain outstanding client relationships.
  • Strong leadership, training, and mentoring skills, with excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills, strong attention to detail, and proven innovative problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to travel as needed based on client assignments.

3. Audit Partner (Public Accounting Client Service)

Reporting to firm leadership, the Audit Partner delivers timely, high-quality audit and attest services across a portfolio of commercial clients while managing engagement risk, budgeting, and billing. Partnering with internal service lines and external stakeholders, the Audit Partner builds and sustains client relationships and recruits and mentors the next generation of public accounting professionals.


Primary Duties

  • Provide timely, high-quality audit/attest services that meet client expectations, coordinating all aspects of audit engagements with a team of professionals.
  • Build and manage client relationships while managing a portfolio of clients and acting as a point of contact for internal and external clients.
  • Manage risk and financial performance of engagements, including billing, collections, and budgeting.
  • Possess strong technical audit/attest skills with deep knowledge of GAAP, GAAS, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Initiate and participate in pursuits of new commercial clients, involving others to train the next generation of rainmakers.
  • Cross-sell to the client base and participate in industry organizations.
  • Speak and/or write on emerging topics and trends.
  • Recruit, develop, motivate, and train talent.
  • Act as a coach and mentor to other professionals, including business development activities.


Skills & Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting required; CPA and Master's desirable.
  • 12+ years of current or recent experience in a public accounting environment.
  • Ability to work across a variety of commercial industries; professional services, technology and/or life sciences experience a plus.
  • A track record of building and sustaining client relationships.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to articulate complex business and technical accounting/audit issues.
  • Strong project management skills and critical thinking ability.


Benefit: Our firm provides excellent compensation, benefits, wellness initiatives, and a strong career path for high performing professionals.

4. Audit Partner (Singapore Public Accountancy)

Sitting at the intersection of technical audit excellence and client relationship management, the Audit Partner oversees a diversified portfolio of statutory and non-statutory engagements, developing risk assessments and determining audit strategy for each assignment. Operating across Public Interest Entities and group consolidation engagements, the Audit Partner ensures file quality and professional standards compliance while coaching team members and maintaining long-term client partnerships.


Duties

  • Assign with a diversified portfolio of clients providing statutory and non-statutory auditing services.
  • Develop risk assessments and determine the appropriate audit strategy and procedures for each audit engagement.
  • Assess audit evidence to derive conclusions in response to audit objectives.
  • Analyze and solve matters arising from audit.
  • Ensure proper audit documentation and file quality.
  • Responsible for audit engagements' quality in compliance with professional standards, delivery, and budget including control of billings and payment collection.
  • Respond and attend to all technical and clients' queries.
  • Coach and develop people by sharing knowledge with team members and helping them attain experiences that cultivate technical competences.
  • Provide professional development trainings and manage team performance.
  • Maintain client relationships and development of a long-term partnership.


Experience & Qualifications

  • Degree in Accountancy/Accounting/Finance discipline.
  • CA (Singapore) member and already Registered as Public Accountant (or in the process of completing the registration).
  • At least 10 years of relevant experience with minimum 5 years in managerial capacity.
  • Knowledge of IFRS, Singapore Financial Reporting Standards, relevant statutory rules, and good understanding of regulatory compliance and procedures.
  • Experience in auditing Public Interest Entities and group consolidation of accounts.
  • Positive attitude, great communication skills, and an analytical mind.
  • Strong managerial and leadership skills and an effective team player.
  • Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

5. Audit Partner (International Audit Practice)

A key member of the audit division reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Audit Partner leads client advisory and service delivery from initiation through completion while driving business development across businesses and geographies. Collaborating across diverse teams and senior stakeholder networks, the Audit Partner builds high-performing groups through meaningful opportunities and fosters an inclusive culture where contribution is recognized.


Functions

  • Understand goals of the client, aligning people to these objectives by setting clear priorities and direction.
  • Influence clients, teams, and individuals positively, leading by example and providing equal opportunity for people to grow, develop and succeed.
  • Establish positive relationships with senior stakeholders.
  • Deliver exceptional client services, maximising results and driving high performance while fostering collaboration across businesses and geographies.
  • Manage diverse teams within a highly inclusive team culture where people are respected and valued for their contribution.
  • Develop high-performing teams through challenging and meaningful opportunities and recognise them for the impact that they make.


Education & Experience

  • Minimum bachelor's/master's degree from reputable universities majoring in accounting, with excellent academic results (minimum GPA 3.00).
  • CA/CPA certifications is a must.
  • Minimum 15 years' experience in audit professional practice, preferably in a leading international public accounting firm.
  • Strong understanding of local and IFRS Accounting Standards and local taxation environment.
  • Excellent leadership, organisational skills, and ability to develop others and manage talents.
  • Ability to work in a fast-moving and multitasking environment and build relationships with stakeholders.
  • Excellent in English, both verbal and written.

6. Audit Partner (Multi-Sector Audit Practice)

A growing audit portfolio and the firm's cross-departmental service offering depend on the Audit Partner, who leads strategic and financial responsibility for the audit function while representing the firm through networking and professional engagements with existing and new clients. Based within a full-service practice spanning Accounting, Audit, Tax, Payroll, Corporate Finance, and Business Advisory, the Audit Partner drives department structure and maximises employee performance to sustain portfolio growth.


Accountabilities

  • Lead strategic and financial responsibility for the management of the audit function.
  • Ensure the high-quality provision of audit compliance.
  • Manage and grow a portfolio of audit clients.
  • Responsible for department and business structure, maximising employee performance and delivery.
  • Drive growth of the audit portfolio through existing network and business development.


Required Qualifications

  • CA/ACA/ACCA qualified accountant; Responsible Individual status highly preferable.
  • Experience of leading the end-to-end audit process.
  • Excellent working knowledge of IFRS/UKGAAP.
  • Excellent technical ability with a commercial approach.
  • Able to lead, motivate and manage a team.

7. Audit Partner (Regional Public Accounting Firm)

The audit function's quality, financial performance, and market presence rely on the Audit Partner, who leads client service delivery across all regions while developing business plans and guiding assurance personnel in their marketplace interactions. The firm's growth strategy depends on this work to align regional and national execution, attract and retain talent, and deliver The RSM Experience to middle market clients engaged in complex transactions.


Strategic Responsibilities

  • Technical responsibility for quality and financial performance on audit clients.
  • Represent the RSM brand to clients and prospects in the marketplace.
  • Work across all regions as a collaborator and leader within the audit function.
  • Oversee client service delivery of solutions and collaborate to introduce other lines of business within the firm.
  • Use industry knowledge, technical depth, and collaborative expertise to add value and executive leadership.
  • Assist in developing business plans and leading assurance personnel in their interactions with clients in the marketplace.
  • Develop and execute firm strategy aligned with regional and national expectations to drive growth.
  • Support the RSM Audit Services line of business, including concurring or other technical involvement on firm audit clients.
  • Attract, develop and retain talent, ensuring continuous professional development of staff and delivery of The RSM Experience.


Background & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related discipline.
  • CPA certification.
  • Minimum 12+ years of relevant professional experience in public accounting, preferably from Big 4, Top National, or Top Regional firms.
  • Financial Services industry experience including investment funds, private equity funds, real estate funds, and hedge funds.
  • Technical proficiency in financial statement audits of middle market companies engaging in complex transactions including mergers and acquisitions, complex equity and debt structures.
  • Excellent client service, organisational management, and relationship-building skills.

8. Audit Partner (Full-Service Regional Practice)

Audit Partner leads a portfolio spanning sole traders to international PLCs across a wide range of commercial sectors, taking the Responsible Individual role on audit and audit exempt engagements while developing new business opportunities through local intermediary networks. The work directly supports the longer-term strategy of the department and office, growing practice revenues across Accounting, Audit, Tax, Payroll, Corporate Finance, and Business Advisory service lines.


Ownership Areas

  • Take the lead as a Responsible Individual, dealing with audit and audit exempt clients across a wide range of commercial sectors.
  • Provide advice to clients on both business and personal matters, acting as a trusted business adviser.
  • Operate as an ambassador for the firm, networking with local intermediaries and developing new business opportunities to grow the practice.
  • Drive revenue growth across existing and new service offerings across the practice.
  • Demonstrate broad business thinking and sound commercial judgement to add value for clients.
  • Provide strong and ethical leadership to people across the practice.
  • Plan and execute the longer-term strategy of the department and office along with the Partners.


Professional Experience

  • Qualified at either ACA/ACCA and able to obtain Responsible Individual status.
  • Significant senior-level experience leading audits across a variety of industries with ability to manage a large portfolio of clients while leading a team.
  • Solid experience in practice, at least 50% of which should be relevant audit experience.
  • Genuine interest in clients with ability to confidently discuss business challenges and needs.
  • Demonstrable track record in growing a portfolio and developing business into new markets and service areas.
  • Proven leadership skills; self-motivated and able to apply relevant skills to new scenarios.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.