IT Risk and Assurance Consultant Review

I am an IT Risk and Assurance consultant which involves being both in the office and onsite at clients we have. Whilst on client site I will attend meetings with my seniors to find out about their IT process in place to enable me to document our findings and then test the procedures they have in place to understand if they are reliable or not.

I am completing the ICAEW ACA course over the 5 years whilst with EY which will mean I become a chartered accountant upon completion of the course. I also attend training sessions in London which are specific to my job area in order to enhance my IT knowledge and skills of what to look out for when on the job. There are also online courses both optional and mandatory to complete which can help both IT skills and general working knowledge.

I have enjoyed the programme a lot so far which is both down to the experiences I have encountered having the chance to work on big clients and visit them understanding the process they work on and also the teams I have worked with. Everyone in both smaller and larger teams are so helpful and actively ensure that I understand everything as we work through each client. It definitely exceeded my expectations.

The teams I have worked with so far have been very appreciative of my efforts. EY offer a recognition award scheme where you can be nominated for a reward if the team have thought you have done something exceptional to help them which I think is definitely an incentive for working hard. Also with feedback being provided twice a year it really helps with your development and what the team think of how well you have worked.

I think that the structure of the programme is great as before sitting any exams we have had the chance to get our heads straight into work to learn whilst on the job. I think this is helpful as it helps us gain a better understanding and will be able to apply the information we then learn in college to day to day work life. We are offered support if needed by both the company and college.

Whilst at college it was intense, although this is the case the tutors do take the time to answer any questions you have. Then if you are studying at home and have any questions you can contact the tutors directly via email of any questions and they usually respond before the next days session. Also if there are any urgent queries there is a chat box on the Kaplan website.

Within the teams I have worked on so far I have received so much support when working on the job. Everyone is so helpful and are more than happy to help me out and gain a better understanding when I have any questions or issues.

I believe the salary is very good for the programme I am on, however I do believe that despite previous experience, we perform the exact same and learn the every day job at the same rate as the graduates and therefore don't believe there should be such a wide gap between pay just because of age. The pay we receive however is enough for everything I require to do.

There are loads of events to get involved with outside of work if you wish. There are team events arranged by us such as meals, drinks out and events like escape live. We also get the choice to take two working days a year to help perform charity. There are also sport events outside of working hours such as netball teams, football and cricket.

Yes

I would recommend to a friend as I have had a great experience so far due to the culture and people who work for EY as they are helpful, friendly and hard working.

Make sure that when going through the application process to ask any questions you have as everyone is so friendly and has your best interest at heart. Don't be nervous as everyone is feeling the same just take it in your stride as it is an experience taking part in assessment centres which will hopefully build up your confidence.