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head of audit, Zurich Financial Services Australia, Australia

Christopher Campbell regards the day he qualified as one of the most memorable points in his career. 'While I found the ACCA examinations very demanding, the qualification and membership provided the springboard to set my career in motion.'

Having studied a degree in finance and accounting the decision to enter the profession was easy for Christopher. He recalls: 'To me the profession would open doors to all areas of business as accounting and finance disciplines apply across all sectors of the economy from the smallest to the largest enterprise. The flexibility in training for the ACCA qualification was a key draw, particularly in terms of not being tied to an employer. Also, the wide number of training providers and the ability to sit the exams at a pace that suited me was very attractive.'

ACCA's strong international reputation also appealed to Christopher and he realised the real benefit of this when he moved to Australia from the UK. 'Through recognition of the ACCA qualification in the Australian migration skills assessment, I have been fortunate enough to build a life and successful career in Australia,' says Christopher, who is actively involved in the development of ACCA in Australia and New Zealand.

Now working as head of audit for Zurich Australia, Christopher has extensive experience across various business sectors including: insurance; banking; financial services; and retail. 'I regard myself as an internal audit professional. My career progression has been made through effective communication and delivery of a quality service focused on achieving best practice,' says Christopher.

'The internal audit profession is, in my opinion, both challenging and rewarding. The demands and expectations placed on the internal audit function have and will no doubt continue to increase on the back of the very well publicised corporate disasters. Directors and senior management expect the auditor to form opinions on the control framework and clearly articulate these - everything is risk focused at the moment.'

Christopher anticipates many changes in the profession in the coming years. He explains: 'I expect the profession to further raise the accounting and governance standards in all countries but particularly in developing nations. In this latter respect, it will contribute to a rise in confidence whereby investors commit much needed capital and resources.' He adds: 'I fully expect that the self-regulation of the profession will cease in the years ahead. At least the playing field will be level.'