Choon Peng is a Vice President in GIC’s Internal Audit department. As internal auditor, he participates in or leads audits to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls within the organisation. He is also an advisor to other business units on control-related matters, and conducts investigative work as directed by senior management.
Outside of work, he has recently completed his part-time Masters’ degree in Asset and Wealth Management and volunteers as a mentor for the Institute of Internal Auditors’ Young Professionals Mentorship Programme, where he gives advice to the next generation of auditors.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
I joined GIC primarily because its purpose – “Securing Singapore’s Financial Future” – drew me in. Another reason was my department’s forward-thinking vision of becoming a leading data-driven audit function, which pushes me out of my comfort zone to continuously upskill myself in order to stay relevant in today’s rapidly evolving environment.
What does your typical workday look like?
My day starts with a morning workout or a jog, followed by getting the kids ready for school and sending my wife to work.
Since audit is project-based, there is no fixed routine. My daily tasks include liaising with auditees for information requests, analysing information and data to achieve audit objectives, internal project status updates, meetings with stakeholders, ad-hoc projects, and audit administrative tasks such as documentation. After which, I would head home for dinner, and spend time with my family.
What do you like most about working here?
My favourite aspect is the opportunity to interact with highly intellectual and smart colleagues from various backgrounds across GIC departments, including travelling to overseas offices to meet our overseas colleagues.
GIC has also established a reputation for being at the forefront of adopting data analytics in audit, which I am particularly proud of.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
Since joining GIC, the firm has offered me many opportunities in my professional development. I have picked up coding and visualisation skills (still learning today) which are highly relevant in today’s digitalised world.
GIC, particularly my department, was also extremely supportive in my pursuit of a Masters’ degree, which I have recently completed.
What you should know before joining GIC
Be adaptable and open to learning new things. The world is evolving at a rapid pace, and so is GIC.