Analyst Review

I am an analyst in the TRS team. This means I support stressed and distressed companies improve their cash flow, improve their trading or their debt position so that they avoid insolvency. Should an insolvency procedure be required, I support my colleagues in taking the appointment and dealing with any statutory obligations we have.

Yes - as part of my training, I am becoming a chartered accountant with The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. Additionally, I am learning how to analyze businesses in distress to support them as well as learning how an administration works and dealing with the various matters in an administration.

Whilst working full time and studying can be challenging, it is definitely and enjoyable experience working on client problems. It is great to know that I am able to directly impact people's life's by supporting struggling business and therefore saving the jobs of the employees who work there.

From an ICAS point of view, it is fairly well structured. I know roughly when I'll be taking my exams, although it can require some digging to find the exact dates of exams and study leave. From EY, there is less structure as you're thrown in the job however there is a promotion after 2/3 years on the apprenticeship.

EY are very supportive of my study requirements and give me a good amount of time off so that I can study. Additionally, my team are great and should I need more time off/help, they are more than happy to give support me as required, whether that be additional days off or helping me.

ICAS provide a lot of help. You get a number of weeks of college in the lead up to exams in which they go through the content. Additionally, their tutors are always available to help should you need it or have additional questions. They also have a lot of written material to support you.

Studying towards my CA definitely helps my work, however as I work in a niche area, there are not any areas of the ICAS course which directly help me in my work. For other areas of the apprenticeship, I can definitely see how the CA will help them perform better.

Yes - I have been able to help EY in a number of student recruitment activities, both organized through EY and directly with my former schools. Additionally, I have attended a couple of industry networking events with other professionals in the insolvency industry. There is a good network fellow apprentices, and I have been on a number of social events with them.

Yes

EY is a great place to work for with plenty of chances to progress and develop in your career. Also, there are some great people who work at EY and I have made some great friends with my colleagues. There is also the ability to work on some of the biggest companies in the world.

When applying, be yourself. One of the greatest assets that EY has is the variety of people's interests and backgrounds, so being yourself will give you the best opportunity to be successful. Also, make sure you know why you want to work at EY and what interests your about the firm.