Associate Review

As an Associate, we get to do the majority of the fieldwork. This means meeting lots of clients, visiting lots of new places and getting an insight in to different types of businesses, from charities to large corporates.

On the traineeship, you will undertake a professional qualification to study. The most popular is an accountancy qualification; this requires a lot of dedication due to the balance of work, study and home life and it isn't easy!

The work is varied which suits me and allows me to learn a little about a lot! There is a lot more travelling involved than was expected, which means days are a lot longer - it is not always possible to stay over.

From the moment you apply, the team are supportive and want you to do your best - they are very proactive at making sure this is the case. Once you're in the firm, the onus is on you to seek the support if you need it, but it is there. As an Associate, it's difficult to influence business decisions but it is the sort of company that gives you the space to, if you want to comment or challenge.

As I am studying towards a professional qualification, the tuition is managed and organised by an external provider: this is very structured. The practical work experience is a little less structured in the earlier years due to the amount of tuition and college-leave. If want more of something, just ask!

From the training provider, we receive a fully taught syllabus with access to a tutor who will pick up any queries outside of the tuition. The course materials are written outside of the prescribed institution text to break the complexity down in to digestible chunks.

We are given full study leave to attend college, which is covered by the company. We are also given a Buddy when we start and they are often a year or two ahead of you in the exams, which is a great support if you've got any issues.

The salary covers living costs and travel costs but there is very little left over for socialising/saving! It's in line with the industry standard though...

There are many groups that you can get involved with, as the company has different committees who organise social and sports teams and events. It's pretty fluid too; if there's nothing on offer that you fancy, make your own!

Yes

If you want to work within the industry, there's no better time to be a part of Grant Thornton. We have a new CEO, who is tearing up the script and reinventing what an accountancy looks like, acts like and sounds like.

- Be invested in the Grant Thornton approach - we are different and proud of it. - Speak with individuals at the firm to understand what it is you'll be doing and whether it's anything like you imagined. - Research the qualification you'll be undertaking to understand the level of time and dedication required.