Justin Roberts is a senior consultant in Protiviti's Houston office, focusing on CIO Solutions. We asked him the following questions to get an idea of what his day to day responsibilities are as a risk management professional. Below you will find his responses and advice if you are thinking about entering into this profession.
1. What was your college and your major?
I received a Bachelor of Business Administration in management information systems from Lamar University.
2. What courses did you find the most helpful to prepare you for your current position? What advice do you have for students about choosing a major and choosing courses?
Accounting and information technology courses have proven to be the most beneficial. I would suggest taking courses that provide a solid business understanding, that are technology focused, and incorporate office productivity software such as Microsoft Excel and Visio.
3. What are your primary work activities on a day to day basis?
Job responsibilities vary by client and project, but typically include developing scope/approach, setting up a workplan, overseeing or executing the work, and documenting the results.
4. What industries have you worked in?
- Energy
- Personal Services
- Financial Services & Insurance
- Government Services
5. What do you enjoy most about your profession?
I enjoy the people that I work with, the diverse client and project experiences, and the many opportunities that are presented, such as travel and exposure to senior level executives.
6. What advice would you give to students interested in the internal audit/risk consulting business? Anything you would do different or change? Any success strategies to share?
Intern at an audit/risk consulting firm while still in college and network with as many people as possible. Ask them what they like the most and the least about the profession to ensure you have a good understanding of the business.