Audit Associate Review

I am an Audit Associate, I carry out as part of a team financial audits on company accounts, testing the figures for accuracy and completeness at their financial year end. Tasks differ on a daily basis dependant on the type and size of the company. I could be working alone or with a large team to complete the audits. I interact with clients and colleagues each day mainly based on site or within my main office of Milton Keynes. As well as carrying out the audits, I attend college as I work towards my ACCA qualifications. This is usually 1-2 days per week over an average of 5-6 weeks with an exam following shortly afterwards.

I have developed my communication skills as well as adapted new skills in accounting and finance both on the job and through attending college. I have attended a couple of internal training courses to increase my knowledge on the business as well as governing bodies requirements for accounts reporting and audit activities.

The people I work will are all extremely friendly, it is a great working environment to be a part of. The culture within the company is all about the people. This role has more than exceeded my expectations. I enjoy my day-to-day role as well as attending college to increase my knowledge and capabilities within accounting.

I don't feel just like another fish in the sea with Grant Thornton. The firm appreciates individuals opinions and looks to highlight opportunities for individual growth.

I have attending a lot of training in the 6 months I have been in the firm. I have been given clear guidelines as to what is expected of me throughout my training programme and I know what I need to do to succeed. Everything so far has been booked in advance for me, I have confidence in the organisation of the programme.

I am studying with Kaplan; as I start each module I have been given the contact details for each of my tutors as a point of contact for any queries. They are easily contactable and extremely helpful. The supporting materials they provide are thorough and provide a clear starting point for what will be expected within the exams.

My people manager is available to speak to if I am having any concerns, plus my more senior colleagues who have already been through what I am currently going through are good to speak to to get another perspective and advice where needed.

The salary package is in line with the living expenses of the area, allowing a school leaver to be able to afford to live in a private rented property.

There are numerous activities to do outside of work in the local area to suit anyone's needs.

Yes

The culture and environment alone is a great reason to recommend the company. The opportunity to study towards such a regarded qualification and receive on the job training alongside this as well is great.

Be yourself, do research in to the company beforehand to understand the company you are looking to be a part of. Understand that you will have a lot of your spare time taken up studying for the timeframe of the training contract but you will be given plenty of advice and support it if you want it.