Stepping Beyond Audit: Exploring HR Horizons - A Journey of Learning and Growth
Having spent over a decade in the field of internal audit, I recognised that the time had come for me to venture beyond my comfort zone and embrace fresh challenges in uncharted territories. With a desire to expand my skill sets and deepen my expertise in a different domain, I embarked on a stint in the HR division. The excitement of facing unfamiliar challenges and the prospect of forming new connections both exhilarated and daunted me. As I reflect upon my tenure in this HR role, I am eager to share some of the remarkable experiences and insights I have gained.
Opportunity to Engage in New System Implementation
I had the privilege of participating in the implementation of our new HR system. This endeavor involved in-depth discussions to analyse various HR processes from end to end. The process redesign was particularly interesting, as the team seized the opportunity to pinpoint process inefficiencies and shape the future of HR. Leveraging my audit skills, I aided the team in identifying control design gaps within the new system workflows and proposed solutions. Experiencing the implementation of a new system from the perspective of a process owner was truly rewarding.
Building HR Functional Competencies
During my time in HR, I embraced a steep learning curve, immersing myself in various key HR processes. My team provided invaluable support in helping me develop functional competencies, particularly in the area of talent attraction. This included attending technical HR courses, culminating in my attainment of Hogan certification. Additionally, I acquired essential system configuration skills for a digital platform that streamlined the screening of over 1,000 job applications efficiently. This included deploying games and video-based assessments for fresh graduates who are interested to join our Associate Programme. The use of digital tools also allowed me to uphold fair and unbiased hiring principles as I oversaw recruitment for the programme.
Networking and Collaborative Projects
Given the nature of HR, I had ample opportunities to network within the organisation. This enabled me to hone my interpersonal and communication skills, which are key for effective collaboration. Through these networks, I gained a holistic understanding of the organisation, and how each department functions. As part of many project collaborations, I interacted with various stakeholders, gaining insight into their needs and how HR could better support the growth of their divisions. These interactions underscored the importance of effective communication, a skill I can now bring back to my current audit role.
Deepening Data Analytics Skills
Many HR functions require data analysis, especially in areas such as talent attraction, policy reviews, and performance management. Applying data analysis skills, such as trend analysis and outlier identification, proved invaluable in making data-driven decisions, identifying improvement opportunities, and potential efficiency gains. Data analytics also empowered us to establish hypotheses by identifying patterns and correlations, ultimately enhancing the attractiveness of our talent programmes.
My stint in HR was an eye-opening experience, offering insights into the intricacies, complexities, and challenges of operational tasks. Though initially nerve-wracking, I acquired new skill sets that I can now apply in my audit role while also leveraging my existing skills in a new environment. This experience has been a captivating blend of learning, growth, and connections with exceptional individuals within the organisation. It reinforced my belief that I can adapt my acquired skill sets from my years in audit to thrive in new challenges and uncharted territories.
I am more than happy to share further personal experiences with you. Please don't hesitate to reach out for a chat!
Koh Hoon Han is an internal auditor at the Economic Development Board. With working experience in both private and public sector internal audit teams, she is a strong believer in how internal audit can bring positive impact to any organisation.
The Institute of Internal Auditors Singapore blogs reflect the personal views and opinions of the authors. These views may differ from policies and official statements of The Institute of Internal Auditors Singapore and its committees and from opinions endorsed by the bloggers’ employers.
