Are you looking to break into IT GRC but unsure how? This post is for you.

Unfortunately, there's no direct path to a career in IT GRC unless you already have relevant experience, or hold a degree or certifications in a specific field.

4. Privacy specialist

?Advantages:
- Gain knowledge and practical application of privacy regulations like CCPA or GDPR.

?Disadvantages:
- Transitioning from privacy to IT GRC is unusual, as compensation and work nature are similar in both fields. IT GRC is also more demanding, requiring learning about new technologies, laws, and regulations.

3. CPA

?Advantages:
- Strong aptitude for numbers, expertise in Excel, and knowledge of COSO and traditional auditing. Possible experience with SOC 1 or SOC 2 projects.

?Disadvantages:
- Many in IT GRC may not know COSO, and SOC2 is mainly for vendor assessments. Collaboration with IT/InfoSec professionals can be tough due to their specific jargon. Misunderstanding IT SMEs' mindset could create tension.

2. Legal specialist

?Advantages:
- Excellent communication skills, ability to navigate complex legal frameworks, analytical abilities, risk assessment and management skills, and proficiency in policy writing.

?Disadvantages:
- New colleagues might not be familiar with legal terms and definitions. Effective collaboration with technical staff and patience are necessary

1. IT\Infosec specialist

?Advantages:
Efficiency in structuring tasks, quick technology adaptation, ability to read and create Visio diagrams, and a highly competitive skill set for IT GRC.

?Disadvantages:
- This path is challenging, requiring strong analytical thinking, enhanced risk management skills, an understanding of business operations and financial flows, and significant writing.
- Collaboration with non-technical individuals requires patience and understanding of their limited familiarity with specialized terminology.
- Enhancing communication skills and practicing emotional intelligence, especially when presenting to a diverse audience, is essential.
- Familiarity with legal, privacy, and CPA skill sets is also beneficial.


Larger organizations with scalable GRC structures can help you find your comfort zone aligned with your background. Thus, for those new to IT GRC, smaller organizations might not be ideal.

A great way to start a career in IT GRC is by transitioning from your current role within an organization to a GRC position.


Please share your experiences with transitioning into IT GRC. What challenges did you encounter?