Associate Review

My role with Grant Thornton is that of a Audit Associate working within the Public Sector Assurance department in Birmingham. The objective of my work is to provide assurance and external audit services to client in the public and not-for profit sector. This entails, on a daily basis, organising and conducting meetings with client staff, review of financial information provided in the accounts, documenting an understanding of the nature of the organisation and the controls they have in place to monitor financial operations and providing sound pragmatic advice on where an entity may strengthen this system. Daily interactions internally are usually amongst the audit team which generally consists of an engagement leader, manager, in charge accountant and fellow associates (trainees). On an external basis my interactions normally involve liaising with the Financial Controller and their respective finance team. As an associate I am responsible for the completion of all work allocated to myself, predominantly being field work and to support the in charge accountant in the overall delivery of the audit. As a one off project, in January 2012 I was seconded to the a County Council in the West Midlands to provide support to an under resourced internal audit team in order to meet annual deadlines. During this secondment I completed the audit on the key accounting system 'Debtors'.

Since joining Grant Thornton in September 2011 I have successfully completed my AAT qualification achieving the level 3 and 4 in accounting diplomas. Following this, I have commenced study for my chartered qualification of choice being the ICAEW ACA with an expected completion date of June 2015. A unique selling point of Grant Thornton is the bespoke internal training provided at Bradenham Manor, a former stately home and listed building leased by the firm and used as a dedicated training centre. Courses and workshops are facilitated here all year round with some being a mandatory requirement of your training contract and others optional in order to enhance your personal development. I believe this provides a unique environment to train in as when you are not taking part in classes you are able to unwind in the vast grounds of the manor or in the bar and games room. Skills I have developed on significantly since joining Grant Thornton include: Communication skills, public speaking, the ability to independently organise and manage my workload, the importance of networking and relationships and also technical expertise in my field of specialism being the public and not for profit sector as well as the general audit profession.

I have enjoyed the school leaver programme with Grant Thornton immensely since joining in September 2011, I believe it provides a fantastic opportunity to those who wish to embark on a career in accounting and finance from an early age and is a highly credible alternative to the traditional university route. Another aspect of the firm which sets Grant Thornton apart from others in the market is their people orientated culture, on a personal level I have always felt well supported and part of the 'one firm' approach. In terms of my own expectations, the school leaver scheme has surpassed them as it has allowed me to study for two professional qualifications, work for a global firm gaining valuable professional and life skills as well as being able to earn a salary all at the same time.

I feel that from day one I have been a valued member of the Grant Thornton team, this is demonstrated in the culture of the firm whereby I was assigned a 'Buddy' on commencement of employment. This is someone who I could bounce ideas off or ask questions of if I was ever unsure. I was always encouraged to speak up no matter how silly my queries may seem! This is also complimented by the presence of a line manager, similar to a buddy but more formal, this is a senior member of staff who is responsible with yourself for the progress and development of your career. As a form of credit, Grant Thornton operate the CLEARR recognition scheme whereby other members of staff can nominate you for an award where you have completed work to a very high standard or gone above and beyond. Awards are issues in the form of points of a monetary value which can be spent on items such as gift vouchers, experience days and a whole array of other gifts.

I feel that the school leaver programme is very well structured, my first days with the firm encompassed a local induction which was then followed by a national firm induction where trainees came together to meet and network in London and learn more about Grant Thornton and the role they play. In regards to training there is a set path of which trainees must follow which comprises of a mixture of internal programmes and professional study as well as on the job learning. I have always found throughout my time with Grant Thornton my needs as a trainee have been supported.

Grant Thornton use training provider Kaplan Financial who operate on both a local and national level. Depending on what module you are currently sitting you are provided with a tutor who will guide you through the learning material and assist you in preparation for any exams and assessments through the operation of revision sessions. Kaplan tutors are accessible at all times via email or telephone and have always shown willingness to help with any day to day problems.

Grant Thornton are fully supportive in meeting the demands of my training needs and work responsibilities. As mentioned previously this is managed through a designated resource manager and also on a personal basis through the line management scheme. Grant Thornton encourage and open approach to any issues encountered, I have always felt that I am able to talk to my line manager when I have a problem and they will do their utmost to help resolve this. If there is an item by line manager is unable to deal with the national HR team are on hand to provide timely advice.

The salary offered by Grant Thornton is competitive and therefore is more than substantial in meeting living, travel and other costs incurred. This is also supplemented by an established expenses policy with all costs incurred during the course of business are fully reimbursed by the firm, this includes fuel costs, professional subscriptions, tuition costs and other travel items such as parking, rail fare and toll charges.

Grant Thornton run a local social club in the Birmingham office, this allows colleagues to get together in an informal environment outside of working hours and acts as a great way to socialise and network with individuals you may normally not have the chance to. Events include the Christmas party, summer BBQ, national football tournament, karaoke nights and other outings. In addition to this, the great location of Grant Thornton in Birmingham city centre means there is plenty to do outside of work even when there are no social events!

Yes

I would recommend Grant Thornton to a friend as they are able to provide an exciting and challenging opportunity for anyone wishing to kick start their career in accounting and finance. In reward for your hard work and dedication you will be provided with the support and guidance needed to ensure your career aspirations and goals are met through professional study and progression within the firm.

Advice and tips I would give to others applying to Grant Thornton would be: - Perform research prior to your application focusing on the firm itself and the role you are applying for. - Dedicate sufficient time to the application process and think carefully about questions posed and answers to these. - In interviews and assessment days always be honest and be yourself.