“Continuous self-development and a responsible approach are the main criteria for success in this field.”
The current interviewee for the Career Blog is Azer Alili, Head of the Internal Audit and Control Division of the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA).
Azer Alili earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Lending from Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC) and a master’s degree in Finance from Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction (AUAC). Azer Alili, who began his professional career in 2013, has worked in accounting and auditing at various banks and financial institutions throughout his career. In order to continue his professional development, he participated in various local and international certification programs and was awarded relevant certificates.
Azer Alili joined AERA in 2024 as Deputy Head of the Internal Audit and Control Division and Head of its Internal Audit Sector. He is currently serving as the Head of the Internal Audit and Control Division.
Could you please tell us about your role at AERA?
Our work involves organizing and implementing internal control measures to conduct audits within the Agency, ensure effective performance, and manage risks. Based on the observations and assessments from the audit, relevant proposals and recommendations are prepared and submitted to support the more efficient and effective achievement of the Agency’s strategic goals.
As part of the internal control function, service investigations are conducted to ensure activities comply with current legislative requirements. These investigations involve the detection and objective assessment of violations of the rules and instructions, as well as regulatory legal acts.
What motivates you the most in your daily work? 
I am most motivated in my daily work by seeing the significant and positive changes in the Agency’s activities resulting from our suggestions to improve risk management, internal control, and management processes. At the same time, contributing to the team’s professional development, unlocking its potential, enhancing knowledge and skills, and promoting initiatives serve as important incentives for me.
What skills do you think are important for auditing?
I believe an auditor should be careful and precise in their professional activities. The auditor must be highly attentive to ensure that inconsistencies are not overlooked when analyzing processes, documents and transactions, and must be highly accurate in properly documenting reports and identified deficiencies. At the same time, the auditor must have a high analytical mind and outlook, identify potential risks, and offer effective and efficient solutions to prevent them. An auditor not only works with documents, but also constantly communicates with people. For this reason, auditors must have high-level written and verbal communication skills and be able to explain their observations clearly and logically.
What methods and approaches do you use in the internal audit process?
I perform my duties in the internal audit process in alignment with international standards and ethical principles. I primarily use a risk-based approach. This approach enables the assessment of risks the Agency may face and ensures the effective implementation of preventive measures to manage them. My professional activity is based on the principles of honesty, objectivity and confidentiality.
In your opinion, how does internal audit contribute to the Agency’s overall performance?
Internal audit regularly assesses the Agency’s risk management, internal control and management processes, providing recommendations to enhance their effectiveness. This enables the effective achievement of the Agency’s strategic goals and the timely detection and prevention of strategic, accountability, compliance, reputational, financial and operational risks. As a result, internal audit significantly affects the optimization of the Agency’s overall activities, the improvement of processes and the successful achievement of strategic goals.
What advice would you give to individuals aspiring to build a career in audit?
Those seeking to build a successful career in audit should possess deep knowledge of international auditing standards and consistently uphold values such as honesty and objectivity in their work. In addition, auditors must be highly competent and committed to regularly updating their knowledge and skills. I believe that continuous self-development and a responsible approach are the main criteria for success in this field.
