Audit Associate Review

I am an audit associate working on a major Investment bank. I document testing and have daily client interaction. I am also in charge of a small team of juniors which has developed my coaching and leadership skills. I have since moved into an ESG role to try something different.

Over the last 2 years I have become proficient using excel, and have extensive knowledge of investment banking in practice which you could not get at university. I have also developed my confidence massively and work directly leading calls with senior clients and also directors and partners here at KPMG.

I really enjoy this programme. I have made great friends and connections and have set myself up very well for the future. I have supportive colleagues and the work is challenging and engaging. The exams are tough and take dedication, but it is extremely rewarding and I would recommend to anyone wanting to pursue an apprenticeship.

KPMG is very well structured and there are people on hand to support any problems you have. My colleagues understand that as an apprentice I have to dedicate more of my time to trainings and learning than other grads. They also automatically set aside time for me to complete my reflective statements.

I have a great network of people to support me, from my colleagues and managers all the way up to partners. I have regular calls with my 'Performance Manager' to have general catch ups on how I'm finding the apprenticeship and and any concerns/areas I am struggling with.

BPP are very responsive and help with any queries I have. After a short illness I fell behind on my progress, and the team were very supportive on getting me back on track. This included monthly calls to set goals, discuss my progress and chat through any issues I am faced with.

My qualification training is definitely applicable to my everyday work. I get to see how the concepts I am studying are applied to the real world and have first hand experience in dealing with different accounting scenarios. The skills teaching has also helped me develop as an all round accountant.

I have gotten involved in many different areas of my job. For example, I am part of the 'Women in Banking' group where we regularly come together for discussion and have guest speakers in. I also write the monthly bulletin for my team and help to organise socials and trips

Yes

KPMG is a very large firm with many opportunities and areas to experience. Despite being so large, the apprenticeship is very personalised to me and I have lots of support where I require it. I work alongside lots of people my age making it a fun and rewarding place to work.

Be authentic, hundreds of people go through the application process and you want to stand out. Research what sort of areas/ roles you are interested in and display a genuine willingness to work hard and represent the firm. As apprentices we cannot leverage qualifications so try to present other strengths such as extra curricular activities and soft skills.