Faces of ISACA: Maria Divina C. Gregorio, CISA, CRISC, PCI-ISA, PCIP, internal audit manager, VSP Global

Editor’s note: The ISACA Now series titled “Faces of ISACA” highlights the contributions of ISACA members to our global professional community, as well as providing a sense of their lives outside of work. Today, we spotlight Maria Divina C. Gregorio, CISA, CRISC, PCI-ISA, PCIP, internal audit manager, VSP Global, a US resident from the state of California.

ISACA Now: What motivated you to pursue a career in audit?
I chose a career in audit because it allows me to have a comprehensive understanding of and exposure to all facets of the business. I am able to use my knowledge, analytical techniques and people skills to effectively contribute to the betterment of the organization. I was also influenced by a mentor early in my career who encouraged me to explore opportunities in this field and introduced me to ISACA’s CISA certification.

ISACA Now: How do you see technological advancements having the greatest impact on audit in the next 3-5 years?
I believe that technological advancements have and will pave the way for more efficient, more effective and more economical audits.

ISACA Now: What are a few professional achievements of which you’ve been most proud?
I am proud to have achieved my CISA, CRISC, PCI ISA and PCIP certifications. They allowed me to lead highly impactful audits that resulted in major cost savings to the organization. I am very proud to have authored our cyber crisis management plan, and I am now leading the global business continuity initiative in my organization.

ISACA Now: How long have you been an ISACA member, and what has that added to your professional development?
I have been a member of ISACA since October 2005 – 12 years! I believe that the benefits derived from my ISACA and other professional association membership, certifications, active participation in my local chapter, passion toward my profession and continued quest to educate myself have been a great formula for my professional development.

ISACA Now: You’ve been active in Habitat for Humanity – what have you taken from that experience?
I’ve always been guided by a personal commitment to leave this place a little better than I found it. I believe that serving with Habitat is my small contribution to that commitment.

ISACA Now: What is the most fun aspect of living in California?
Do I feel like having authentic dim sum breakfast in San Francisco this morning, then heading to a Napa vineyard for lunch and some wine? Or how about some honest to goodness mole in the Mission, then heading to the beach and gazing at migrating whales in Bodega Bay? Or maybe picking up my skis and hitting the slopes at South Lake Tahoe, or lounging in a houseboat in Shasta Lake? As you can see, there is something for everyone in California. I feel very blessed to have these choices – all within hours from each other!

ISACA Now: What are some of your favorite things to do outside work?
I read, go on hikes with my dog; tend my organic garden; feed the ducks, peacocks (yes, we have them “wild” around my neighborhood) and turkeys; swim; work out; and have lunch dates with my mom.

[ISACA Now Blog]