Tax assistant Review

My day to day role is very varied as I am on a rotational programme. Recently I have been helping to plan the compliance cycle in tax and begin helping to complete tax returns.

I have learn lots of new skills since I have started the programme. I have completed AAT level 3 and I am now nearly half way through my studies to complete AAT level 4. There are also internal and team specific training, where I gain technical knowledge and more on the department I work in. Personal development is a big thing at KPMG and we attend training courses to improve these skills

I enjoy this programme a lot. The people are what make the firm and the programme. they are helpful and very friendly, which makes the work environment all the more enjoyable. My expectations have been exceeded as I thought I would come here and wouldn't fit in at all, when in fact I have met people from all walks of life.

I feel very valued by my team. Even though I am in lots of different team for a short amount of time, I feel like a member of the team each time. I attend regular feedback sessions from my managers and they recognise my hard work. However, I don't feel like we are as valued by the central KPMG 360 team. I think they often under estimate the value we bring to our teams

The support they give us in terms of personal development is good. However, I don't think that the programme is organised well at all. I think that the management team don't have the answers to our most concerning issues about the programme and when they are voiced, they are hesitant to respond. We are kept out of the loop on big decisions about the programme and they seem to have a "take it or leave it" attitude, when new information is given to us last minute without our input. The programme hasn't followed through with promises that were promoted when we first started.

I cannot fault the support given to us by the training provider. I study materials are good, they give us enough information to make sure we feel confident going into the exam. The coaches and tutors check up on us regularly to ask how we are getting on, which I do appreciate. I am happy with the training provider.

I receive a good amount of support from the employer. I have a line manager to help me and delegate work I have to do, a buddy just is usually one grade above me to help to ask with day to day questions and a mentor who is somebody in the business we can choose to help us with future aspirations and career goals. Their attitude to helping us is very positive and I feel comfortable going to speak to them with concerns

Living costs are very expensive in London. I feel that I am at an advantage as I live with my parents, but that isn't the case for a number of apprentices. KPMG claim they offer us a competitive package, but upon doing research of other programmes we are paid quite a bit less than the starting salaries of other programmes and I have been here for two years. Considering how hard we work and how much we are told we are a great asset to the business I don't think this is a fair package.

Yes there are lots opportunities to get involved. There are a number of networking events we are attend. A group that are aimed at junior members of staff to help us get to know each other and help with personal development. We have volunteering hours we can use to help the local community.

Yes

I would recommend KPMG to a friend, as I feel that it is a great stating point in your career. The people here are great and always want you to progress, not only in the firm but personally. I think it is a great place to learn and build confidence in the work place.

I'd say do your research about the company and find out what projects KPMG are working on to make you stand out from the crowd. KPMG are really like to see passion to learn in an individual and once you show that, they remember your face. The interview process may seem daunting at first but the interviewers do make you feel comfortable as soon as you walk into the room