From audit to investor relations
Audit professionals bring analytical rigour, strong communication, and solid financial grounding, making them well-suited to investor relations (IR). Their attention to detail and ability to interpret complex information translate directly to LP reporting, fundraising, and investor communication.
For auditors moving into IR, developing commercial awareness, understanding the fundraising cycle, and building confidence in shaping financial narratives are key. This guide outlines the core considerations for making the transition.
For auditors moving into IR, developing commercial awareness, understanding the fundraising cycle, and building confidence in shaping financial narratives are key. This guide outlines the core considerations for making the transition.
Overview of IR roles
In-house IR
Placement agent
What you need to succeed
- Financial acumen: A deep understanding of financial statements, internal controls, and fund structures, crucial for handling LP queries and presenting performance metrics
- Professional rigour: Auditors are trained in precision, documentation and meeting tight deadlines, qualities highly valued in IR
- Stakeholder management: Regular exposure to CFOs and finance teams helps develop professional communication skills useful when dealing with LPs
- Storytelling ability: Turning data into an engaging investment narrative is central. You need to go beyond the numbers to sell a fund’s vision
- Relationship building: Unlike the audit environment, where interactions are often reactive and formal, IR is proactive and relationship-driven. Building long-term trust is critical
- Commercial awareness: Understanding fundraising cycles, competitor landscape, and macroeconomic trends is important to anticipate LP concerns and tailor messaging
- Technical tools: Proficiency in CRM systems (like Salesforce), investor portals, and data visualisation platforms can be a bonus
How to best position yourself
Fund exposure
Networking
Upskill
Positioning yourself well
What to expect from an IR interview process
Initial screening
Competency interviews
Technical case study or written task
Senior stakeholder interviews
Is this role right for you?
If you’re looking for a role that blends analytical depth with communication and collaboration, this could be the perfect next step for you.
- You enjoy working with complex, detailed information, and turning it into a compelling narrative for different audiences
- You consider yourself a people person who thrives on collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders
- You’re seeking a role that allows you to build on your existing qualitative and quantitative skills, applying them in a new and challenging environment
Conclusion
Transitioning from audit into IR is both challenging and highly rewarding. By combining your analytical strength, financial knowledge, and clear communication skills, you can build a compelling profile for roles centred on LP reporting, fundraising support, and strategic investor engagement. These capabilities position auditors well for the fast-paced, relationship-driven environment of IR.
Success in IR requires growing your commercial awareness, understanding the fundraising cycle, and developing the confidence to shape and present financial narratives. With the right exposure, networking, and preparation, your audit background can serve as a strong foundation for a career in IR, one that blends analytical depth with storytelling, collaboration, and long-term relationship building.
Success in IR requires growing your commercial awareness, understanding the fundraising cycle, and developing the confidence to shape and present financial narratives. With the right exposure, networking, and preparation, your audit background can serve as a strong foundation for a career in IR, one that blends analytical depth with storytelling, collaboration, and long-term relationship building.
Throughout her time at PER, Lucy has worked closely with accountants, investment bankers and industry professionals looking to move into investor relations.
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