Audit Associate Review

I am an audit associate working in Corporate Audit in Cardiff. Each week I am booked to a client and travel to the client site to carry out testing on their financial statements. Working in small teams, each member works on an area of the file e.g Balance Sheet and P&L. As a junior member, I have gradually increased my skill base on different areas of the file in preparation for my second year.

I have developed my skills in team building and communication. As my role is client facing, communication is a fundamental skill in my daily work. I have also learnt new IT skills, by using new systems and software's. I have also gained qualifications under the ACA.

The programme is very challenging but come with many rewards. Meeting new people everyday is enjoyable and building client and colleague relationships. The down side to the programme is the long hours and travelling.

In some aspects I feel valued, when I receive feedback by colleagues I have worked with on clients. However, during the time of an audit there is little praise and encouragement as the team are often focussed on meeting the deadlines. I have often volunteered myself to take part in Deloitte advertising and promotion of the scheme I am on. This is not always recognised.

When I entered the role I was given a timetable for my exams and study leave, however, when this needed to be changed, there was huge struggle to re-arrange time booked on clients to prioritise exams. In terms of client work, I get booked to clients by managers and must check this on a regular basis to make sure I know where I will be working each week.

Support can be offered through email, as the training provider is only available during working hours. Support is given when in college to make sure you are happy with what you are learning and can speak to the tutors face to face after lessons. However, in order to do this outside of college time, holiday must be booked to visit the training centre.

My employer offers support if asked for it. This can only be outside of working hours as time must be booked to working on clients. Due to busy schedules and tight deadlines, it is often very hard to find the support from colleagues.

My salary meets my costs as I have little outgoings, however, my the salary for my scheme is much lower than that of a graduate scheme, despite carrying out the same work. The salary does increase each year, based on the grading you receive.

There are not many opportunities outside of work as the main priority is completing all the audits by the deadlines given. Social events are arranged throughout the year and summer/winter balls, where different offices can gather together.

Yes

It is a well established firm, with many different career opportunities. It is located all over the UK with options to work in different locations and the opportunities to travel. The experience gained is invaluable and can be applied to any future roles. The people of Deloitte are friendly and help is always provided.

Have a fully understanding for the role/roles that are available and have an idea of where you would like to be within the company. Always ask questions and get involved in any activities that are offered. Have knowledge of the process for applying the role and what each stage involves. Speak to other who may work in the firm and have background knowledge on what the firm does.