Senior Associate Review

My role is jut to be part of the audit teams that I work on. I work on a range of listed and non listed companies, and my job is to oversee more junior members of the team, and oversee less risky areas, alongside preparing the more risk based areas of the audit. In addition to this I am currently completing my ACA qualification.

I have learnt 2 different sets of skills; 1) the accounting based skills. This is generic industry understanding and accounting knowledge acquired through working on the clients that I have as well as through my exams. 2) I have learnt a lot of soft skills which are stuff like time management, communication, management my personal wellbeing (such as taking appropriate holiday) and networking skills.

I enjoy about 90% of my programme. The vast majority of the program is very interesting, and is something that I really enjoy and think I will continue. I think that as apprentice's, EY offers an experience that is embedded in the firm, and in no way cordoned off to do our own thing. The only times that I do not enjoy the job are when there are times that it can feel repetitive which can make motivation suffer, however this is a result of the job and not the programme.

I think that the programme is very well structured. Due to the fact that graduates coming in operate the same scheme as apprentices, except over a shorter period, the firm is built to incorporate the apprentice studies alongside the job, and actually the 2 schemes fit very well enabling for experience organised of the programme. I think that the course is well balanced and effectively organised.

There is a large support network at work which is in the form of lots of touch points that are available for consultation. These include a buddy, counsellor, apprenticeship coach, peer support group, department family. This means that there is always someone available to speak to should there be an issue with work.

We receive a lot of support as they provide us with time off to help with our studies alongside all round support network which allows us to gain full confidence on the exam. In addition we get a range of tutors which allows for lots of different perspectives to gain full understanding.

As my role is about Accounting and Audit, doing the ICAEW is very beneficial for my role. There are no exams which I do not think help perform my role. On the contrary there are documentational elements of the qualification, such as documenting skills and behaviours which I deem are more time consuming than beneficial.

Yes, there is a big social experience at work due to the fact that there are lots of teams. Not only are there sports teams such as football, there is also the inter departmental socials and other sporting teams that are available. In addition, if there is not a society not already available then we are free to set them up ourselves.

Yes

I love working at EY because there is an incredible culture of teaming and inclusion. I think that everyone is allowed to be themselves, while also completing great work with amazing clients. I think that the opportunity for growth and development sets it apart and I love coming into work every day.

I would advise them to put lots of work into applying. You cannot just get a job, you must practice interview questions, and the interview process. I would recommend trying to reach out to anyone who already works at EY for inside knowledge and additionally I would make sure that you show a passion for the company when being interviewed. Also assessment days - it is key to say your point but also work in a team.