Associate Review

Over the last three years I've been involved with the audit of a large financial services client in Edinburgh. On a daily basis I am tasked with speaking with client contacts, preparing audit workpapers and assisting my audit team where required. We are given responsibility early on, so progression is faster with Deloitte than it would be in the wider industry.

Since joining my skills, experience and knowledge have increased on a daily basis. There is a constant and steep learning curve when joining Deloitte as a school leaver. I find the constantly changing challenges to be exactly what I need in a career.

I enjoy the job, working with a variety of teams and people everyday keeps the day to day refreshed. We are constantly learning and taking on further responsibilities - no two days are the same! There are also a great deal of perks working within the audit department, with the hard work comes fantastic opportunities for reward.

As mentioned above, we are rewarded often for the hard work undertaken. This comes in many forms, sometimes as simple as a thank you from a manager other times much more formally.

From the start we have been well trained and supported through the work we perform, this leads to greater ability to work autonomously in later years of the programme - even leading to becoming a coach to new joiners.

Through the job and whilst undertaking professional exams - we are provided with mentors and contacts throughout the office. This ensures that with any issues support is on hand and there is someone contactable in the event of extra support being needed.

Whilst on the job, there is always someone of a greater experience level around to support the junior staff. If any issues arise or if there are questions to be asked - we can always find someone to help out.

The starting salary is just below that of a graduate job, and within one year of joining the salary is increased to match that of someone joining with a degree. This more than meets the needs of someone working and living in the center of town. Any additional travelling or costs incurred whilst at work are covered by the firm - so other than basic living costs there isn't anything to worry about.

The firm contains a lot of young people - other school leavers, interns from local universities and then graduates, who are generally just out of university. With so many people around the same age there's great opportunity to socialise outside of work hours and many people make great friends through work. Further to this - there are numerous opportunities to travel and move around within the business. Being a global firm there is no shortage of secondment roles available at all times.

Yes

From day one we've gained unrivaled experiences, with a global firm comes access to working with other prestigious companies and clients. After the contracted 5 years, there is a role for you to remain with the company - so job security is high.

The application process can be long and seem onerous at times - but its there to ensure only the best candidates are considered. Throughout the process you will be assigned a 'buddy' who knows the process and will make themselves available to answer questions and support you throughout the application and interview process.