In the intricate world of auditing and technology, the path to leadership is often marked by continuous learning, adaptation, and a willingness to embrace challenges. One individual who exemplifies these qualities is Janet Freeman, an IT Audit Technical Director at Deloitte. In this article, we unravel Janet’s career journey, filled with enriching experiences, valuable insights, and a commitment to empowering others.
A Distinguished Career Path
As an IT Audit Technical Director at Deloitte, Janet Freeman stands at the forefront of a challenging and ever-evolving industry. Her journey began in 2005 with Ernst & Young, now known as EY, one of the Big Four firms. Reflecting on her trajectory, Janet notes that her path to becoming a director has been a blend of challenges, enrichment, and reward.
Janet shared, ” The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but what truly stands out is the relentless pursuit of learning and adapting. My path has seen the IT audit field transform from its initial focus on basic system integrity and compliance to a complex landscape shaped by advances in technology, expanding scope, evolving regulations, and the refinement of professional practices.”
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Learning
Janet Freeman’s insights transcend the technicalities of her role. She emphasised the importance of seeking guidance and mentorship to navigate the challenges of a dynamic industry. “Who can help you navigate before you experience it?” she asks, highlighting the value of learning from others’ experiences.
Challenging the notion that experience is the only teacher, Janet encourages professionals to leverage the insights of those who have walked a similar path. She believes that others’ experiences can serve as valuable teachers, offering insights that can be crucial in navigating one’s career.
Advocating for Yourself
A recurring theme in Janet’s advice is the power of self-advocacy. She urges professionals not to shy away from voicing their ideas and viewpoints. “Own your career. Don’t look to the next person,” she asserts. Janet highlights that individuals should actively seek opportunities and advocate for themselves rather than relying solely on others to recognise their potential.
“Don’t discard everything you’ve learned,” Janet advises, particularly to new graduates. She stresses that individuals bring valuable skills and perspectives to the table from the moment they step into their roles, urging them to embrace their unique contributions.
Seeking Challenges and Taking on Leadership Roles
Janet encourages professionals, especially women, to seek challenges and not hesitate to take on leadership roles when they arise. “How many times have we had women say I wasn’t sure whether I should?” she questions. Her response is unequivocal: “Yes, you can.”
She advocates for a proactive approach, suggesting that even if one feels unsure about taking on a challenge, starting with 50% and figuring out the rest along the way is a valid strategy. Her empowering message to women is clear: “Go for it.”
Janet Freeman’s journey from her early days at EY to her current role as IT Audit Technical Director at Deloitte is not just a testament to her technical acumen but also to her commitment to continuous learning, mentorship, and self-advocacy. Her insights serve as a beacon for aspiring professionals, encouraging them to navigate their careers with resilience, embrace challenges, and advocate for their own success.
