Associate Client Advisor Review

Day-to-day, there is a fair amount of variation in my role. I work in Accounts Payable in the AOS department, so our tasks run mostly in a monthly basis. I process invoices for numerous clients, prepare VAT and FCA returns, set up payment runs, monitor client inboxes, among other tasks.

I have learnt so many skills in my first 9 months. I have developed great communication skills, an area I previously lacked confidence in. I have also developed my Excel skills. Being a school leaver, I had no experience with excel, but my line manager and wider team took me under their wing and allowed me opportunities to develop y knowledge.

I enjoy my programme very much. Our work is very flexible in terms of when we have to go to the office. Some days i prefer to work from home, especially if i have something to do soon after work. However i also find it enjoyable to go into the office, as I have made some good friends there, and also enjoy the free unlimited hot chocolate and coffee!

I receive emails from my provider, BPP, regarding when I will start my next module. I have college days, which are a mix of virtual and in person. However it could be improved slightly as i have to email asking for my exam pathway, as mine differs slightly from that on the AAT website. I would like to see this in a centralised, easily accessible place so i could refer back to it.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. I have had a lot of big personal events in my first 9 months, and my whole team and line manager have been very supportive, offering for me to be more flexible where this would be beneficial to me and my family

My training provider provide sessions, going through each module. This includes being taught skills and knowledge required, as well as independent practise question time. Along with this comes a knowledge book and a practise question book. For each module I have a tutor, who is available to answer questions via email, as and when I have them

My role combines both general accounting knowledge, and client specific knowledge. The client specific knowledge is simply picked up as you work, however my accounting knowledge has been built through my qualification. This has led to a greater understanding of why i do what i do, and how to do my tasks with more efficiency, meaning that i spend less time asking questions.

While I am not directly involved, each service line has a 5-a-side football team which team members can take part in. there are also many other activities such as chess club. I am involved in my wider teams social committee, so i will help to plan socials after work, among other things.

Yes

Mazars is a great place to work. I have created a lot of new friendships, while also learning so much and gaining invaluable job experience. I enjoy going to work every day, as there are always new challenges to problem solve on, and it there is also not much stress involved, which has let me create a good balance in my life.

Mazars is slightly different to a big 4 culture. While we are competitive in the market, my colleagues who have worked in the big 4 and moved to Mazars have said that there is a much more friendly environment. From apprentices to partners, there are people at all levels who look out for eachother, and offer to help on tasks whether small or big.