Business Apprentice Review

Business Adviser - I run the management accounts on two clients as well as assisting on a portfolio of other clients. I typically review junior's work and then perform the finalisation of accounts before Manager/Director review or sending to the client. I liaise with clients regarding deadlines and issues, I also communicate with managers and colleagues regarding the available resources to get jobs done, in addition to one off work. I have exposure to property investment funds, building companies, medical suppliers, telecommunications companies as well as shops.

I have developed immeasurably with regards to my organisational and people skills - I can take ownership on a number of projects and deliver independently and as part of a team. I have gained qualifications towards being a chartered accountant (ACA) and have been on numerous internal courses - from programming to personal effectiveness training.

I enjoy my programme to a great extent - the people really make the place. I've not had any issues and any time I have a query there are methods in place to raise them. I was not sure what to expect and I feel that BDO has comfortably surpassed expectation to that end. I enjoy the challenges and responsibility my job offers.

BDO has numerous ways of making you feel valued - from monthly organised reviews on jobs, to ad hoc feedback from managers, to quarterly awards. So to this end, if you put in effort you will see the impact this has and indeed receive praise in one form or another. This aside, BDO offer overtime - so if you do work a long week you get the extra time off or the boost in the pay check at the end of the month.

There is a decent amount of structure to the program with good levels of support, however it can often be difficult to get a level of flexibility given that you are part of a larger cohort. otherwise I would say that the programme is very amicable. I would suggest to the company to have flexi time put in place, this would be my only reccomendation/feedback on this topic though.

The training provider is always available, although the training becomes somewhat second nature during the apprenticeship stages so perhaps I've not utilised this as much as others. I have been impressed with what I've used however and the tutors are very helpful and always ask if we need any extra help or support with any of our college work/training.

Support from the employer has been exceptional, not only to myself but to other colleagues whom have suffered bereavements etc. I feel that support in the working environment is truly an exceptional point at BDO. I can't fault their support system and i think that this is one of the biggest perks/advantages of working here and definitely something i'd mention to other people of a similar age to myself thinking of applying.

I love spending money so really this would never end well, but the salary is competitive, overtime can be paid and there are progressions based on performance. London is an expensive place to live, but it's not a hard life as long as you're not on the drinks too often! I think it's just a matter of balancing your finances and seeing what you can spend at the end of each month really.

There are work drinks every month, plus quarterly socials and the Christmas party. On top of that there's a company 5-a-side tournament every year which is a laugh. You have an allowance for volunteering activities. The office (in London) is in an amazing location - Baker Street - Marylebone is just a beautiful place to walk around in the summer.

Yes

Well I already have and have had a number of mates join out of uni, but because BDO genuinely is a great place to work and affords numerous opportunities to those wanting to get into the industry. Additionally, BDO is expanding rapidly in the mid-market and it's a really exciting time to be part of the firm.

I would advise that you research the company, the qualifications and are well versed in your own CV - if you are confident in these matters then you shouldn't have a problem. Additionally, make use of the site that details what happens in the recruitment process, it's really useful. Try to speak well about yourself during the interview and think of good answers to any questions put towards you.