I’ve seen countless professionals attempt to break into the world of governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC). It’s one of the most promising fields in our industry, but unfortunately, it can also be one of the most intimidating. For those of us who are passionate about cyber security, however, it’s worth the effort. Not only can a career in GRC be lucrative, but it also gives us an opportunity to make a significant impact in the world of technology.

If you’re considering a career in GRC or looking for ways to take your existing GRC career to the next level, I’m here to help. In this article, I’ll provide you with some insights, tips, and strategies that have proven to be effective for me and many other professionals in the field. So, whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, buckle up and get ready to learn how you can kickstart your GRC career!

How do I start a career in GRC?

Understanding the Basics of GRC

GRC stands for Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance. It is a broad field that manages the complexity and risks that organizations face, from regulatory requirements and data privacy laws to financial regulations and cybersecurity threats. The role of a GRC professional is to create strategies, policies, and processes to help reduce risks while ensuring that the organization continues to operate efficiently and effectively. GRC professionals must be able to adapt to rapidly changing environments and have the ability to connect the dots between different risk management processes and technologies.

Exploring Education Options for GRC Careers

The path to a career in GRC generally starts with obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Computing Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or a related field. Beyond that, additional education and professional training can help to develop in-demand skills and expertise. Some GRC-relevant courses or certifications include:

• Certifications: CISSP, CISRM, CIPP, CRISC, PMP, CISA
• Courses: IT Risk Management, Corporate Governance and Compliance, Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities, Data Privacy and Protection, Fraud Detection and Prevention, Business Continuity Planning, ISO standards, NIST frameworks, and more.
• Master’s degrees: MBA, MS in Information Assurance, JD, or an MA in Risk and Compliance.

Developing Relevant Skills and Expertise

While formal education and training are important, it is essential to develop relevant skills and expertise. GRC professionals must be business-savvy and possess strong communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Some of the key skills and expertise that GRC professionals must have are:

• Understanding of industry trends affecting GRC
• Practical knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices (e.g. SOX, GDPR, HIPAA, etc.)
• Ability to conduct risk assessments and develop risk mitigation strategies
• Ability to perform compliance testing and internal audits
• Expertise in data visualization tools and technologies
• Experience in developing KPIs and KRIs for GRC workflows

Building a Network of Professionals in the GRC Field

Networking and building relationships with fellow GRC professionals are essential to unlocking opportunities and staying current on developments in the field. GRC professionals can join industry associations, attend conferences, and participate in forums; this is a way to meet peers and learn about the latest trends and best practices. Some of the top networking opportunities include joining professional associations such as the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, ISACA, or the Open Compliance and Ethics Group.

Identifying Opportunities and Job Roles in GRC

Some of the job roles GRC professionals could qualify for include:

• Compliance Analyst/Manager
• Risk and Governance Manager
• Audit Manager/Staff
• IT Security Analyst
• Corporate Investigator
• Chief Information Security Officer

In preparing for a career in GRC, it is essential to research potential job roles and reflect on career goals. Networking, increasing education and certification, and developing a range of skills can all be important steps in securing a job in GRC.

Crafting a Strong Resume and Cover Letter for GRC Positions

When crafting a strong resume and cover letter, it is essential for GRC job seekers to highlight relevant experience, skills, and education. An easy way to do this is to tailor resumes and cover letters to each job role, so that highlight key qualifications and experiences that match those listed in the job description. Be sure to include examples of successful GRC work, including auditing documentation, compliance testing, and risk assessment reports.

Preparing for GRC Interviews and Assessments

Before a GRC interview, it is important to research the company and the types of GRC issues they face. It is helpful to be familiar with the company’s regulatory environment, market position, risk profile, and compliance requirements. Additionally, GRC job seekers should prepare meaningful questions to ask potential employers, reflecting their personal aspirations and career goals. Finally, be prepared to discuss recent accomplishments and how these support your suitability for the role. Preparation and research will increase confidence and assurance throughout the interview process.