Associate Review

Trainee Associate. Day to day I look into the financial accounts of different companies and perform testing to ensure they are being disclosed correctly. I get to perform substantive and controls testing and stretch opportunities are available if you are keen and enthusiastic. Furthermore the firm pay for us to attend college and qualify as a chartered accountant.

I'm studying for my ACA qualifications through ICAEW. Internal training is frequent, and I have managed to develop my audit, and computer skills. Furthermore interpersonal skills are developed on a daily basis as we are often on client site and interacting with clients in a professional manner.

The work itself can be somewhat dry at times, however the job changes from day to day and lots of stretch opportunities are available. The company culture is core to what EY is all about and is what makes the job so enjoyable. The cultural diversity is really interesting and adds a more enjoyable dynamic to work. The job is enjoyable for the most part and exceeded my expectations in the amount of responsibility and trust you are given right from the outset.

Managers are often out on sight with you from day to day and they are always motivating and encouraging. Internally there are reward schemes for hard work both officially and unofficially which is really good. Furthermore the job is very much, what you put it in you get out. The harder you work the more interesting and diverse the tasks you get given become.

The programme is very well organised. You are treated on the same level as graduates which is nice to begin with. You are informed of your study timetable for the year ahead at the start of the year and have regular internal support meetings (family meetings, counsellor meetings etcetera) which is incredibly useful.

Coaching has helped me pass all my exams. Ergo I can't fault it

EY managers are very hands on in their coaching both in technical competence. Beyond this they're keen to help you manage your workload and learn what you can and shouldn't be taking on based on your existence workload. They encourage transparency with how we work.

As I still live at home with my parents paying nominal rent, my salary package far exceeds my cost, travel costs to clients are reimbursed so it is awesome to start saving up for a deposit to own my own house!

Company events are frequent, either within small "audit teams" or office wide which is great for networking and meeting new people. EY offers sport teams and encourages "flexible working" for those who have commitments outside of work.

Yes

Because of how much I have enjoyed my first year here, and the way that it has helped me mature and develop as a person.

Be honest about who you are, and learn how to channel what makes you you into a professional environment. I'm confident and personable and its about how you can channel those nuances to your character into being a strong "team player".