Senior Associate Review

I work in Tax Reporting & Strategy Technology and provide consulting services to clients to assist in solving problems using technology relating to tax systems. This involves having conversations with clients on their current processes and identifying improvements that could be made through process changes, automations or system implementations to improve the quality of life for users.

Through my apprenticeship I have completed the ICAEW ACA qualification which means that I am now a Chartered Accountant. By completing this qualification I have learnt new skills in areas such as accounting, tax and business law. I have also developed my existing skills through this apprenticeship such as my communication skills, organisation and ability to work with others.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my programme to date due to the variety in the type of work that I complete and the number of areas that I am exposed to which allows me to develop broadly as a professional within this sector. The programme has allowed me to gain experience with clients and colleagues in person and virtually which has been enjoyable.

The programme overall was well structured by my employer and there was a clear pathway that was being followed which enabled me to understand the progression route that I was following. There was a clear structure that was communicated well throughout the programme to allow me to understand the current status of the programme and my progression through it.

I received a high level of support from my employer throughout the programme including study leave and time away from work to study and complete my apprenticeship tasks. My employer also provided sufficient resources and contacts to assist in completing the programme to a high standard, with colleagues always being on hand to support when questions arose.

I received excellent support from my training provider when working towards my qualification. All tutors at the training provider were highly skilled and capable at teaching their respective subjects which allowed for their knowledge to be shared with ease, enabling me to complete the qualification at the first attempt with sufficient knowledge.

The qualification helps me to understand key concepts within my role, such as accounting and tax, however there is a lack of depth in certain areas that I cover in my role. For example, tax technology and generally more widely is not covered in depth or in the application used within my role which could be improved.

My employer offers a variety of extra-curricular activities which I am involved in. This includes network opportunities with colleagues and also prospective new joiners to the firm. This allows me to expand my network and develop my conversational skills which is important due to the power of a professional network within this industry.

Yes

I would recommend PwC to others due to the professional nature of the business and the support provided throughout my programme to ensure that my qualification was completed successfully and that the skills I have learnt can be applied directly to my day to day role. This has allowed me to advance and grow as a professional within business.

I would give advice to others applying to PwC to act naturally and identify opportunities to get to know others who are involved with PwC to gain their insights on the business as a whole. PwC as a business covers a wide range of industries and business sectors and therefore it is important to try and understand a little bit about all aspects of the business.