u/Sharp-Okra-167

I recently got promoted to Senior Auditor, but alongside that, my firm is moving me into a new role as an AI & Automation Lead, with a longer-term path toward becoming a Financial Reporting AI Specialist instead of the traditional manager/director track.

For context, over the past year I’ve been heavily automating a lot of our audit workflows—building scripts, agents, and tools to reduce manual testing, streamline documentation, and eliminate a lot of the repetitive grunt work. It’s gotten to the point where the firm wants to formally invest in me and have me focus on scaling this across engagements.

I still enjoy audit, but I’ve always been more interested in the technical/building side than the client-facing and networking-heavy aspects that come with the traditional path.

The partners have been very supportive (basically told me they’re okay with projects failing as long as we keep pushing innovation), which makes this a pretty unique opportunity.

One additional factor: long-term, I want a career that gives me a lot of flexibility and ideally the ability to work remotely. That’s a big driver behind how I’m thinking about this decision.

My question:
Do you think specializing early in AI/automation within audit/financial reporting is a better long-term move compared to sticking with the traditional path to manager/director/partner?

I’m especially curious about:
- Exit opportunities (both within and outside accounting)
- Risk of being too niche vs. being ahead of the curve
- Whether this kind of role becomes more valuable over time or plateaus
- How it compares to the traditional path in terms of flexibility and remote work potential

Would appreciate any thoughts—especially from those who’ve seen how tech-focused roles evolve in accounting firms.

Hi guys, ask ko lang if meron bang mga bumalik sa pinas dito galing abroad? How much are you guys earning now in the Ph?

Context: I am 24, CPA in the Philippines. After ko magboards, flew straight to AU to pursue further studies. While studying, I was also working as an auditor here in Au. On track for senior role this july cycle.

I have plans on going back since ayoko naman talaga magsettle dito. My parents, partner, and friends are in the Ph. And I also have a comfortable life back home. Also, I'm currently in progress of completing my CPA Au license, hence may leverage ako if I choose to move back home and just do remote work.

I'm still yet to discuss this with my bosses, but considering na nagooffshore naman na din kame, ask ko lang ano kaya realistic salary ko whenever I discuss this matter to them? Just wanting to gauge and set my expectations.

Also, di pa naman ako babalik now. Tapusin ko pa yung CPA Au ko and i'll try to get the PR first before going backZ probably around 3-4 years pa.

So yes, just wanting to ask or have insights on how much would I be looking at salary wise considering my circumstances? Thanks! 😄