Corporate assistant Review

Working on audits of privately owned businesses varying in size from interns firms to small family owned businesses. This involves dealing with clients both face to face and remotely via emails and teams calls. Each audit is completed with a team of staff from different grades and teams usually change from job to job.

Since starting I have developed on a number of skills. I have grown in confidence when speaking to both more senior team members and clients. I have also developed my leadership skills by working with more junior members of the the team and supporting them with their work and giving help when they’re struggling.

Since joining the firm I have enjoyed the apprenticeship route. It gives a good alternative to uni as it allowed me to continue learning whilst gaining a professional qualification whilst earning a good salary too. I enjoy the variety of clients I am able to work on and also returning to work on some of the same clients each year.

The programme has a clear structure. When joining I was provided with an exams pathway so I knew which exams I’d be sitting and when I was due to sit them. There is also a clear promotion and development pathway that goes in line with exams and time at the company.

I have received a good level of support from joining, this is from both my line manager and other colleagues. As everyone in the years above you has done the same exams they are in a good position to provide help if struggling. There is also support available from the tutors at college for exam help.

When working towards the exams aspect of the qualification there is support available from the tutors at college. Even when not in centre they are available to be contacted with any exam specific questions. There is also staff available through college for help with any apprenticeship specific questions if needed.

I feel the ACA qualification helps me to better perform in my role as things are taught in college usually in advance of doing them in work, meaning that when looking at a new area I have a bit of an understanding of them beofre beginning work. It is also good be able to see exam scenarios in real life work situations.

There are various social events organised throughout the year, including sports teams, cake baking competitions and various work drinks. A big social event is LCASS which is a black tie ball for all training chartered accountants across the area. There are also young professional networks available to join whilst training and post qualified.

Yes

I’d recommend the program and the company due to welcoming environment and constant support provided. Although the job isn’t always easy there are lots of social opportunities too and hard work is recognised and rewarded. The culture seems more relaxed than in some of the big 4 which makes the office more welcoming as a school leaver

Get the application in early as it is a rolling recruitment process so will close once all roles are filled. Be yourself throughout as a big focus of the firm and the office is the people and whether you’d fit in. Always make sure to be honest in answering and not say what you think your interviewer wants to hear.