Senior Associate Review

I currently work on a flexible graduate scheme. This has involved work across different lines of service, but mainly work in audit and risk assurance. I am currently on a Risk Assurance controls testing project. My day-to-day duties involve creating a Risk and Controls Matrix for a client - this involves detailing the types of risk faced by the client, and the controls used to combat these risks.

I have developed skills such as integrating with a new team quickly, communication skills (from working with various clients and team members), and working flexibly (through virtual and in-person working). I have also improved my technical skills, as I have been able to implement knowledge that I have learnt in my studies in my day-to-day job.

I mostly enjoy my day-to-day job. The work I do is mostly interesting and technical enough that I feel that I am learning and developing. I get enough support from my team, and 99% of managers that I have worked with are willing to answer questions and offer support on projects. The only part of my programme that I don't enjoy is the pressure to work in-office when this is not needed (i.e. when the work is all with people in different countries or offices).

My work is mostly well structured. I find that I am busy most of the time, without having to do excessive amounts of overtime. Sometimes finding new work can be challenging, but this has been easier as I have met more people. I find that the apprenticeship side of my work takes up a large amount of time often doing repetitive tasks and writing about KSBs that sometimes feels pointless.

I receive enough support from my employer. I have a support system of other employees, a career coach, course manager, and the manager of whichever engagement I am on. I find that this gives me sufficient support for any problems I face, whether that be in the projects I am working on or any personal issues. I also know that there is more support (e.g. wellbeing services) available, but I have not had to use these.

I receive good support from my training provider. The tutors who teach the in-person (or occasionally virtual) aspects of the course have all been approachable, good at teaching, and willing to answer questions. I know that there is more support available outside of taught lessons, but I have not had to use these - however, they are always advertised during each in-person session and I have heard from others that they are good.

I definitely feel that my qualification helps me perform better in my role. As I have worked across a variety of projects in different lines of service, I have been able to use a wide variety of information that I have learnt. For example, I have used knowledge from tax, audit, and accounting exams in my day-to-day work.

There are lots of activities that I am able to get involved in. There are a lot of sports clubs (although I do find that these cater to more traditionally masculine sports e.g. football, rugby, basketball), faith based, and demographic based clubs that I can join. My course also has regular socials to network with other employees, and most projects I have been involved in have socials occasionally.

Yes

I would recommend my company as I enjoy my current job and think most people I meet also enjoy their jobs. I feel fairly compensated for my work (e.g. salary increases with qualification progression and also with inflation) which is very important to me. The social aspect of the job is also good, and there are plenty of opportunities to network with others.

I think that having a general understanding of each Line of Service is extremely useful when applying, as work often overlaps, and it also helps you to understand the work that is available. I also think that going to as many social and networking events as possible when first joining helps you settle in and meet people, and this is important as there is often a big emphasis on the professional network you have.