Associate Review

As an associate at EY I spend most of my time dealing with clients and members of my team to try and complete audit work to a high quality. I am responsible for key pieces of documentation being completed for some FTSE 100 listed clients.

I have developed my accounting skills through ACCA exam training and on the job coaching from managers. I have also attended internal courses across Europe to expand my auditing skills and build on my networking. My social skills in a business environment have also improved as part of my role dealing with clients and working in close-knit teams.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme as it challenges me everyday to improve while providing a good learning environment with some of the largest clients possible. The company culture is focused on employee and client satisfaction which is very good.

I feel very valued by EY having received good feedback from managers and partners in my office. I have also been told about good feedback from clients to the managers about my efforts in completing the audit. Additionally, I have received numerous impact awards for "living the EY values".

The programme is very well structured with a combination of inductions and training courses as well as classes for exams in conjunction with the work expected of someone in my role. The programme ensures everyone within it fits into a good role within the firm.

My training provider BPP provides a lot of support. I receive many different types of revision materials as well as access to revision courses and a number of tutors who have real life industry experience and can explain things in a way that relates to that.

My employer provides a lot of support and are flexible in allowing me to study. There is a network in the office to help provide support for exam technique and style. There are also many managers in the office who are more than willing to help answer questions when asked.

Being in Aberdeen, living costs are very high. However, my salary is more than enough to cover this and I am able to maintain a good social life as well as being able to afford a car for travelling to work and good quality food for my meals through the week.

There are many opportunities outside of work such as the EY Social Club which hosts meals at different restaurants in the local area. Additionally, there are a lot of charity events in the office through the charities committee such as race nights and bingo nights which encourages sociability with the other people in the office while raising money for charity.

Yes

EY is a great place to start a career as it allows you to build and grow your skills while being exposed to some of the best clients possible. It aids in providing a thorough understanding of business processes with the help of a very friendly and helpful manager group.

The advice I would give to someone joining EY would be to be themselves. EY is a people-based firm and people are our assets and everyone is appreciated for their contribution. I would also encourage people to think outside the box about when they may have developed certain skills.