Internal Auditor Salary & Pay

(Note: Salaries can differ significantly based on industry, experience, and company policies. (The above figures are estimates taken from glassdoor.co.uk and payscale.com.)

Salaries and Bonus

The salaries mentioned above are for entry-level roles. They are for professionals with less than five years of experience. As you gain experience, you can expect your compensation to increase proportionally. At the top end, Chief Internal Auditors can make anything from EUR 150,000 to EUR 400,000 at some companies.

Large international corporations tend to pay more than smaller businesses. They also offer more benefits. The best way to increase your compensation is by making lateral moves from one role to another across companies. Grab any growth opportunities. We do not mean annual job hunts, but we are open to options that suit your profile.

Most of the compensation for internal auditors is in the form of a fixed annual package. Being a cost centre, incentives and bonuses are usually modest and in the 10%–20% range early in your career. More senior roles have a slightly higher bonus range, but it won’t be a significant part of your compensation.

Sector and Location Considerations

Compensation also differs based on your industry. Banks, Big Four consulting firms, and large Fortune 500 companies tend to pay more. They have complex operations, requiring advanced skills and experience.

Total compensation is also dependent on your location. Roles in large cities or the capitals of financial hubs usually pay 10% to 20% more to compensate for the higher cost of living. Businesses in such towns are also likely to be more prominent, with a larger global footprint. This offers more opportunities for lateral movements and corresponding salary increments.

Future Prospects for Internal Audit

Internal audit is an “in-demand” role owing to the increasing regulatory complexity worldwide. Companies have had to focus ever more on compliance, governance, and control due to fraud and cybersecurity breaches. They also face a more competitive business environment. Internal audit teams have a part to play here. Companies worldwide have been hiring more skilled internal auditors. They are also increasing team sizes.

The work has also changed, with a greater focus on technology and data-driven approaches. This means that tech-savvy candidates can command higher salaries. They can also expect larger annual raises. It is advisable to get the necessary tech training to fast-track your career.

Learn more about internal audit careers:

See our other articles on the role of an internal auditor, including Job Description, How to Become, Qualifications, and CV.

Search Jobs to find out about the internal auditor job roles we currently have available.