Audit Associate Review

In general the role of an external auditor is to validate the accuracy of client's financial statements by considering if the statements reflects the true and fair representation of the business performance. As a first year auditor however, responsibilities are minimal in a way that the tasks I am assigned with are low risks and all aspects of my work would be reviewed by a Senior Associate. An example of the work I have been exposed would revolve around checking invoices, reports, bank statements, essentially, making sure two or more documents agree and reflects upon the true and fair view of the client's performance. You can also expect great exposure by having worked through various clients across multiple industries.

In the short amount of time I have started this programme with PwC, it has allowed me to gain many new skills and also develop existing ones. This is due to the wide range of clients across various industries I have worked on. It has allowed me to gain useful knowledge on how different companies operate and also how business is conducted across the many industries. Furthermore, with it being a client facing role, I have been able to develop greater confidence and sense of professionalism through the many interactions that I have made with the client's I have worked on.

As a first year, I am still trying to wrap my head around things and getting use to the programme. I have had many great experiences, despite having only started 6 months ago, however, at times it can be pretty challenging. The programme is great in a way I have gotten great support and understanding from the employer and seniors at work. Furthermore, sometimes, taking a break from work and heading back to college can good as well. However, at times it can get a little difficult when work gets busy and having the balance the demands of the apprenticeship at the same time.

The common understanding is that 80% of your experience would come from work in your day job and the other 20% would be working towards the qualification. It might seem easy however, it can get really tedious and stressful when it comes the time where demands are coming from both areas. However, at PwC, the programme is very well structured. Time has been already been allocated for work and also to pursue the apprenticeship. So far, the structure that has been put forward alleviates many stress and allows things to follow more smoothly in this programme

The employer provides great support and understanding. The employer assigns every first year associate undergoing the apprenticeship with career coaches that would be able to guide us through the experience and provide insights that had helped them get through the apprenticeship previously. Employer also allocates time for us to work on apprenticeship and all seniors are very understanding towards ensuring we have enough time to attend to the demands outside the day to day job.

Training provider would assign us with talent coaches which have been very useful. Talent coaches helps candidates navigate their way through the apprenticeship by ensuring we are on the right track as we progress and provide support where needed. Meetings can easily to scheduled when necessary and they have always been accommodating towards our concerns.

As an auditor, the qualification I am working to is crucial towards my progression. Auditing requires vast range of knowledge in accounting, management and finance across all industries. This qualification allows us to grasp a solid understanding on the underlying concepts that is develop a deeper understanding of audit and perform. The qualification also consists of ethics modules which is crucial in navigating through the different business processes.

At PwC, inclusivity and togetherness is highly emphasized. There would be many opportunities in getting involved in all sorts of societies from sports and social to professional events. These opportunities allows you to network with the thousands of employees across the firm. Even if none of the activities aligns with your interests, PwC highly encourages and supports employees in starting their own initiatives.

Yes

PwC provides a great environment to work in and meet new people. Given the size of the firm, there would be many opportunities down the line. PwC sets an environment that allows you to develop not only as a professional but also as an individual. You would have the chance to work across my different engagements jumping from team to team. This allows you to expand your network and work with many different people. Coming from a minority background, I do appreciate PwC emphasis on diversity and inclusiveness and it creates a platform for individual like myself to strive.

I'd say if auditing is the path that you are interested in, there would be no better place that PwC for it. Not only would it be a place that all allows you to develop your career but also it would be a great opportunity for you to work to motivated individuals who motivates you to be better. The programme can be tough at times but PwC emphasises in providing a supportive environment that would allow you to succeed in this environment