What technical skills are needed to be a forensic accountant? Do I need to know SQL and Python (or another programming language) or is Excel enough? Asking as a career changer.

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Excel, Alteryx, tableau (or Power BI). Tools that help you with data investigation and story telling. SQL and Python (Pandas) are also helpful but Alteryx is faster to learn and extremely valuable

like

Pretty much this...I feel llike a combo of these skills makes you far more likely to stand out since you can take on more complex stuff right away versus easing into it

they would be bonuses and talking points in an interview. not exactly must haves. like many other roles.

avoid pitching yourself as an expert because some firms have designated data science/data analytics folks and you likely wouldn’t be able to compete with them if your coming from a finance or accounting background.

like

Excel is enough for forensic accounting/investigations. Programming is definitely a plus but definitely not required or even the norm.

like

I can’t speak for forensic accountants, but SQL and Python sounds more like Forensic Data Analytics. The skills required for FDA varies between countries and companies. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about FDA.

like

Thanks!

Excel is the only thing you need to know. Most firms have a separate data analytics groups with CS/Math background people.

like

Agree. If my team has a technology component it’s important I understand what is happening from the forensic data analytics side but I’m not going to actually do the work.

Excel is critical. I accept that newbies (campus and experienced hires) may not have the Excel skills I do, so I try to teach as much as I can.

Related Posts

For those who completed their SHRM certification this year (CP or SCP) and opted for self study, what study materials did you use to prepare?

like

I am a Basis Consultant, but finding interest in project management profile i have experience of 11 years in IT. Need Guidance/ help to proceed further

I’ve been a creative strategist, account manager (both agency) and an ad sales operations manager (television/digital media) and I’m tired of bouncing around. I’m trying to narrow down paths that I can take now, but am at a loss. There are so many ways I could go. Because of my last two roles I have a great interest in creative operations type positions, but I’m not quite sure how actually land the job. Any thoughts?

Have you ever made a career move that you didn’t really want to make bc it wasn’t the right time but you knew it would advance your career and help you financially?

I have a great opportunity to really advance professionally and financially, but if I’m being honest, I don’t want it right now. What I’m doing works for my life right now and I enjoy where I’m at. But I also feel like I’d be nuts to pass up such a great opportunity.

like

I just got into reading books, any suggestions to start with? Which could help to increase media/marketing knowledge.

like

Do we have any generic certification policy at HCL for upskilling.

Not talking about project specific or where RM needs to approve, as this tech (cloud) is something I want to learn, not part of my day to day work.

like

Hello, I am in CA and am looking into the acquisition of a broker’s book of business, either in full or a percentage of, and/or looking for someone to partner with on that endeavor. I’m licensed in life, accident and health, and would prefer it to be that. If anyone has any advice for me on how and where to start, or anyone they’d like to put me in touch with I would greatly appreciate it

like

Can you please suggest which one is better among logicmojo vs learnbay for Data Structures and Algorithm Instructor led course?

Please share your experience if any.

like

Hello,
I’m a MRI technologist with bachelors in radiologic science. My goal is to become epic analyst. I do have a proficiency in Radiant. However, I am not having much luck with any applications. Almost all the postings require actual certification or build experience. I am thinking that I may have to go back to school. My options are either go for masters or go for another bachelors in IT/computer science. What could be my other options? Thank you.

likehelpful

I currently do planning system implementation at SC level. Quite technical stuff and less PMO. What are my future career possibilities from here onwards? Can I keep progressing in the standard ladder and keep doing implementations, or is it automatically going to end up becoming more are more sales oriented and less actual implementation work? Especially interested in the SM level and above. I’d prefer staying at Big 4 and avoid the supplier side.

like

I’m 29, female, is it still a good time to move from audit to FDD? Probably having kid in the next two years.

like

Does anyone have experience working for a ALSP? How does compensation work (pay and benefits)? Are you an employee or technically an IC? Do you have billable requirements like at a firm? How do you think it prepared you to potentially move in house? I'm currently at a firm but thinking of taking a position with an ALSP but my goal is to go in house.

My friend is a 4th year public defender in NYC. T14 grad and easily one of the smartest, most capable attorneys and professionals I know. He finally hit the limit and is looking to pivot out of PD work when she moves to Oregon next year. Does anyone have any experience seeing this PD - private practice transition happen? Hes open to basically anything in the litigation space so long as it pays better. Any advice?

I am interested in getting the AWS Cloud Practitioner cert (foundational). I’m tech-savvy, but have not been involved in Cloud work. Any idea on how difficult the exam is?

like

What are typical exit opportunities from financial reporting?

like

Hello all,
I am. Working as Sps associate at Amazon..
I just want to know how's carrier growth in this role? Job security and all?
And can I switch to IT dept in future as I have exp of 2.5 yrs as manual tester.
Thank you

like

What are some companies that could be a good exit opportunity in Phillly? Comcast, DOW, FMC...any others come to mind?

like

Hi
I’m going to receive an offer from O9 as senior consultant, how is WLB, someone in the same role has some insights? The job will be based in Europe. Actually I’m working for a software boutique in supply chain and I’m looking fo an enhance in my career.
Thank you in advance for any advice

like

Im a junior level analyst at working in Asset servicing. I want to move to Equity research in about a year. What would I need skills wise to be able to move. (More context I’ve got a masters in finance and no prior work experience. Based on the UK)

like

More Posts

Need 15 likes for DM. please help.

like

Hi Any positions for research, account management or power bi ?

like

Hey folks, need some help. I cleared all my interview rounds and had completed the documentation too. However for more than two weeks the status on the portal is "offer initiated". The HR says the delay is happening because the people who need to approve are on leave. Are they playing around or keeping on hold? Do they actually release offer after this much delay? Please share if you know anything about it.

like

If you want a Porsche but you think you can only have a Honda you’re getting a Honda.

Everything we want in life starts with a thought.

Thoughts becomes beliefs.

Beliefs effect our behavior and actions.

Beliefs, behavior and action are our reality.

If you want an exciting, fulfilling career, start thinking about what that looks like for you.

Believe you can have it.

You’re beliefs, behaviors and actions will lead you to it.

If you need help, DM me.

likeuplifting

I just had an L7 sdm interview with Google. Seemed to go very well except one of two system design interviews. The one went great and one went ok until they asked me to estimate the cpu/ram/server needed to handle the workload. I could give a great answer. We shall see.
Google

What is the maternity leave policy of PWC and for how many children it is available?

like

What laptop is given in CGI for Associate Consultant level? Could someone help here please?

#CGI

like

What is your favorite productivity app? I’m needing a new one, I’ve been using Click up but don’t care for it.

like

How do i find out if I will be happier divorced or more unhappily staying married. 2 kids; 2 & 4 YO. They don’t hear the arguments after bed time and don’t understand the bruises yet but I know it’s just a matter of time. It would be so much harder not seeing my kids everyday than living with the pain, loneliness and lost friendships. But I’m tired. And so sad. Lost. So alone. Does anyone have something that turned it around? He changed? You changed so he did? Ayahuasca retreat maybe?

like

What is the difference between fetish and kink? I thought they were same.

like

Can someone help me with the in-hand salary?
I assume Its 1.24 including taxes. 20k is reserved for Performance pay, I believe they will atleast pay 50% i.e 10k per month.

Is this good offer for 4.2EOY?

Post Photo
like

Can anyone please help me to figure out how much is fixed and how much variable?

Post Photo

I'm not going to get back 5 hours of my life.

Watched "Indian Matchmaking". Full of incredulous stereotypes that I abhor. Indian here, btw.

likefunnyhelpful

Considering leaving to take a partner position at a small firm. Is it worth it? Would only be 2 partners with a staff of 10. Comp would be 250k on the low end and probably top out around 350k. Would take 3-4 years to get to this level of comp as would be buying 10% per year up to 40% of the firm. Am I stupid for not taking this? Currently manager making 125k. Comp first year as junior partner would be 120k with 10% ownership.

likesmart

Hello everyone

Kindly help me out past 3 months I'm applying for job but not getting anything in Ontario Canada.

I'm looking for job opportunities in pharmaceutical or biotechnology company,currently in Hamilton Canada with permanent resident.

I have 10 years of experience in quality control manager in serum institute of India ltd.

like

PSA: Jet and Powermatic are having supply chain issues. Ordered a jet dust collector in March with an April delivery date. Woodcraft has pushed it back every month and their current best estimate is July 7th (though they are still advertising a June ship date). Just keep that in mind if you have any sense of immediacy around your purchasing needs.

helpful

Hi guys, I have got one full time job for 14LPA from 10.5LPA in Coforge for BA role. On the other hand, I have one more offer for Canada and the job is on 2 years contract basis with 80k CAD per annum where I have to sign 2 years agreement as well that I can’t back out once I get the offer. I was interested to go CA but scared in terms of job security, economic slowdown and a big change. Is it worth going to CA on contract basis job declining the full time opportunity in India.

like

Ritz or JW in Cancun?

like

For people who have been promoted from senior to ACD at a Publicis agency, can you please share your salary bump? Thanks.

like

Any gyals in Toronto?

like

Additional Posts in Fraud and Forensics

For those who have obtained the CFF certification:
I was asked to put together a working plan to obtain my CFF credential. I’m aware of the 2 certificate program (Core and Specialized) through the AICPA that will lead to the CFF. Does anyone have experience in how long it would take to complete the certificates and if there are other necessary or helpful study materials that would be useful? For background, I’m 6 months into working at this firm and have touched a variety of cases.

like

I am currently looking at a position for advisory usdc commercial anti-money laundering at Deliotte. Does anyone know how work life balance is for this type of a position?

like

Hi , can anyone please share what their interview was like with EY ? I’m applying for a senior position. Thanks

like

Has anyone taken the CFE exam? How did it go? Was it hard? Gow did you prepare?

like

Anybody’s practices said anything about in-the-office expectations post-RTO? I know in my practice before this it was mostly in-the-office unless traveling, but this situation seems to have changed the culture.

like

Any companies hiring for Forensic Accounting (Investigations, Litigations, AML, etc.) I have both my CPA and CFE.

like

I accepted a new job, they said PTO was “generous.” I find out it’s 19 days a year of PTO (which includes sick days). I have two young children and we like to vacation 1-2x a year (no more than a few days away each time). Am I crazy that this is pretty limited time off? 8 of the normal holidays off during the year (working the week between Christmas and NYE). Thoughts? I dont know if lack of PTO is a good reason to back out, is it?

like

Hi , is anyone willing to give a referral
- 3 month away from 2 years in audit (2 busy seasons)
- NYC /NJ area
- No CPA ( I know I have to get it please don’t leave this comment )

like

I recently passed the CFE and was looking into the CAMS next. Any suggestions on how to best prepare for the CAMS? I’ve been mostly reviewing the index cards that come with the prep material.

like

How’s work life balance in forensics?

like

What is the interview process for EY FIDS like? Looking to do a rotation/transfer from audit and am not too sure what to expect.

like

Comp question - what should a B4 Senior with a CPA, CFF, CFE, and a MBA with 4 years forensic exp (D&T) and 6+ years non-forensic exp (industry) in NYC and DC markets expect in this current climate?

like

Can someone give me some insight on the CAMS prep process and exam? Time frame, rigor etc?

Just began studying for the CFE exam. I have access to past editions of the ACFE Fraud Examiners Manual. Does anyone have recommendations on where to get good practice questions? I’d like to avoid spending a fortune on the ACFE kit.

like

I'm getting a MAcc to career change to forensic accounting. What opportunities are available to me with a data analytics heavy MAcc? I'm also tacking on 2 graduate certificates in Applied Statistics and International Economic Policy? For those in the field, would that be useful or not useful (i.e. waste of time)? I'm interested in investigations but also analytics, financial modeling, and expert witness services. Throw in salary potential for bonus points. I'll be getting my CPA, CFE, and CAMS.

like

I was wondering if the review course “CPE Self Study Course” for the CFF was enough preparation to study and pass the CFF exam. The CFE review course was enough and like if you get a question wrong it explains it well so that when it comes up in a different way in the real exam you can still get it. But when I saw the outline for the CFF material and there seems to be a lot of topics so I was wondering if the review course was sufficient considering this exam is also multiple choice. Thanks!

like

Hey all - going to be taking CAMS in December. Any study tips or online resources to focus on?

like

If anyone wants to study for the CFE but doesn’t want to pay the full price for the study materials and would be interested to split it, please DM me

like

Any openings in third party due diligence/ background screening? I am also pursuing CFE. Thanks!!

Salary progression in Forensics? Does this career path pay well?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal