Assurance associate- Flying Start Review

Assurance associate- Flying start. On a day to day basis, I am involved in audit engagements for clients. This usually requires travelling to the client's site wherever that may be; for instance, I spent the first half of this week in Istanbul doing work for Sony. I generally work as part of a team to test the client's financial processes and transactions in order to check that the information given in a company's financial statements shows a true and fair view of what has occurred during the year. In terms of responsibility, I have found myself in a position with a lot of responsibility fairly quickly. As my time is split between university and work, I have found myself moving into a more senior role in each of my placements and in this, my third placement, I have been leading teams on audits of multinational companies and in contact with directors of very large companies.

Over the course if my degree and placements, I have been working towards the ACA chartered accountant qualification as well as earning a degree. In the process of doing this, I have learned a lot about the financial processes of businesses; my placements have allowed me to put this into context as I see it in action at my clients. Additionally, I have learned to be professional and have gained a great deal in terms of confidence and communication skills.

The work itself is not always exciting and can at times be a bit dry. However, the people I have worked with have made this a great experience and there is a strong sense of comradeship within the teams to get the work done in what can be tight deadlines.

Managers clearly appreciate the work I perform and it is always nice to hear that partners and directors have heard of my hard work. However, there is a level of anonymity that comes from working in a large firm and I feel that it is easy to be lost in the crowd because hard work is what is expected.

The structure of the course is perfect to integrate the work with learning and make everything feel relevant. Additionally, the induction process makes sure you have an understanding of what is expected of you. There is also a good support structure whilst on placement from your people manager and peers.

The university provides a great level of support from tutors and a good support structure.

People managers and peers as well as a budy system ensure that you feel supported.

Accommodation is covered on placement, plus a reasonable salary, mean you won't feel poor. Any travel costs on top of heading to the office are covered.

I haven't notice many opportunities.

Yes

The work is hard and often dry but there is an opportunity to learn a lot and meet fantastic people. Additionally, it's a good way to get ahead.

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