There is no limit to how high accountants can progress in their corporate career. Many CEOs began as staff accountants.
Corporations also employ internal auditors.
Their duties are similar to those of independent financial auditors working for public accounting firms, but their goals are different. Internal auditors primarily ensure that companies follow their own policies and procedures. In contrast, public auditors assure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP and fairly present the information. Internal control is an important issue for both types of auditors, but they operate at difference levels of detail. The Institute of Internal Auditors designates Certified Internal Auditors and administers the CIA exam.