Junior Associate, Consulting Review

I work as a junior associate within International Development. At first, I began on an internal role, gaining essential skills in organisation and business development. This provided me with the confidence and network to work in ID. On a day-to-day basis, I work on two projects, and tasks can range from organising large client events to helping to produce key deliverables for the client. The work is interesting, and has really stretched me.

Internal training at PwC is a real strength. I have developed my Excel skills (now creating complex budgets without assistance) to creating PowerPoint slides which are used in bids to win work. Throughout my time at PwC, I have developed my professional skills, learning how to confidently conduct oneself in important meetings, and how to communicate with impact when working with clients. These skills are not something which one can obtain from a University degree, and I have found the experience invaluable.

I have been lucky enough to work with two great teams, who have really focused on each others development. Being around such a positive group of people really motivated me to perform at my highest possible level, helping me get the most out of what I do. The culture of PwC is also great, people are focused, passionate, and really inspiring to work with. The programme has surpassed my expectations, and in many ways I believe it has stretched me much more than University could have done.

I was surprised by how valued I felt at PwC considering my age and initial lack of experience in Consulting. Even when working with Partners and Directors, they have treated me in a very supportive manner, yet again focusing on how I can add value to a project rather than whether or not I have a degree. All of my line managers have been brilliant at providing feedback and development points throughout any work which I have completed. This has stretched from team recognition to high level partner feedback. When working at PwC, I have really felt as though I am a part of the team, and not just a junior member of staff.

I would like to see more training and support when first joining PwC. Although the project provides an excellent learning experience, this can feel like a rather steep learning curve at first - which can be a bit overwhelming. We were provided with two days of training, and then started on our first projects. I believe that PwC could improve this, by offering a week or two of training, just to develop the technical skills of the Higher Apprentices so that they are better able to add value to their projects.

Once I had joined PwC I was immediately assigned a people manager and a Higher Apprentice buddy. This was great, because I had people external to my team that I could reach out to. During the apprenticeship, I have completed my certificate in management consulting. The course definitely pushed me, when taking exams, but the pressure was manageable, and as a result I learned a great deal about time management and organisation when working! Our training provider was divided into two main sections, this was our coursework and exams. In general, the support provided from our external assessors was good. They remained in contact via phone calls and email. They were professional and clear with their communication regarding their expectation of the standard of work which we were to provide them with. The exams were also taught well (in general) and I felt that I learned a great deal with regards to the paper on analyzing and using financial statements - which I have already applied within my project! The teachers in general were very supportive, enthusiastic, diligent and were fast when responding to our questions.

I have found all of my managers very supportive, and keen on my own development in order to grow both professionally and personally. My Higher Apprentice buddy was great at supporting me through the programme, and my People Manager. As an employee, if you need further help or support, then there are ways in which you can gain this support privately or more widely, depending on the types of support that you are looking for.

At first, I found the salary quite tight, as I had moved from home, and have an expensive commute to fund. This being said, providing you perform well in your job, then there is an increase in the size of the pay package every 6 months. Right now, 18 months into the project, I am relatively comfortable money-wise. I think that the pay package is probably best for those still living at home looking to save up to buy a house. In terms of saving through living at home, this is an amazing opportunity, as you are then able to purchase your first property in your 20's. The other benefits which come with employment at PwC are great - there are options for private medical and dental care, and you are able to purchase more holiday if you wish. I think the pay package is fair to start with, considering my initial lack of experience, but as I develop my own skills within the firm, it's great to see my salary reflect that.

Outside of my day-to-day job, there are so many initiatives to get involved with, and this is something that the firm really encourages their employees to do. By getting involved in activities outside of my day-to-day work, I have been given the opportunity to gain transferrable skills which I am now able to apply to my day-to-day job. As a snapshot, I have been involved in Mental Health initiatives, Student initiatives (getting students involved with businesses such as PwC), teaching and Mentoring. These opportunities have helped me to grow exponentially as a person. I am now more confident personally and professionally as a result!

Yes

Working at PwC has been an incredible experience for me. It helped me to understand what I wanted to spend my career doing, but it also introduced me to the most brilliant peers and colleagues. When working there, I gain inspiration from everyone around me. Their hard-work, dedication and knowledge is incredible, and I feel so privileged to have had such a great experience in the workplace at such a young age. PwC look to invest in their people, you will gain both soft and hard skills here, not to mention friendships for life.

I would advise you to look and think carefully about what sector of the business you want to work for. I work in consulting, but have had experience in audit. Think about what your strengths are, and what you want to look to develop. If you are in the process of applying, then I advise you to work on your interview skills, and read think pieces published by PwC, as this will give you a great insight into the types of work which PwC lead in, and the potential areas of interest which you could work in.