Audit Assistant Review

I start my day by logging into my work laptop and checking any emails or teams messages I have received from my engagement team. Then I perform various tasks and tests in order to audit the engagement I am currently working on. I am frequently on calls with my team and the client throughout the day.

Yes, I have definitely learnt a lot so far, I've been exposed to many different kinds of software and testing methods. I've also learnt how to communicate better with my team both verbally and with emails. Even though I was proficient with excel before, I still have learnt a considerable amount which was super helpful to speed up my tasks. I have also learnt a lot about accounting from the Level 3 and 4 exams I have completed with my education provider.

I enjoy my programme a lot, my engagement team is very good and my manager is very quick to answer any queries or concerns I have. We have a very flexible working environment and as long as the deadlines are met and completed to a good standard there are no issues. The audit part of my programme has been especially interesting and the training and exams we have had so far have also been very enjoyable.

The programme is very organised with multiple people in-charge of making sure any issues we have are dealt with. The few issues I had were very quickly dealt with by KPMG staff and I have been very impressed so far. We were also fully explained everything that would happen in the program and have many people we can ask for help if we require it. We are also well aware of all the exams and other responsibilities required of us on the programme as this information is communicated well in advance. We have also had a very long induction which helped us to introduce ourselves to the programme and the firm which was a massive help. We frequently have support meetings with our performance managers to deal with any issues we may have as well.

I receive a lot of support, whether it is support from my engagement team on problems I am stuck on with my engagement. Support with learning for exams through my professional education provider, or support with any issues I may have through my performance manager. We have also been given a lot of support for our wellbeing through apps and encouraged to take frequent breaks and go on walks when possible.

I receive a lot of support from my training provider, we are given a session before the exam covering all of the topics which we will be tested on and the ability to ask questions to the teacher and get further explanations on parts where we may be stuck. We are also able to attend a forum where we can get further explanations closer to the exam date, and have frequent calls with my training provider in order to discuss my progress and possible improvements.

My qualification definitely helps me perform better in my role, there have been numerous time where I have used my accounting knowledge on a task I was assigned on an engagement. I apply the theory I have learnt almost daily and everything I have learnt is massively beneficial to me so far. I definitely know a lot more about accounting after the exams and training I have had with my training provider.

There are many company events and activities which we can get involved in if we wish, unfortunately due to covid we cannot attend sports or in person social activities but we have transferred to attending activities virtually instead. We have numerous sessions including a HIIT and a stretching session every week which is recorded if we miss out. We have had numerous events which were very fun, especially during the apprentice induction where we all competed to win.

Yes

KPMG are a very well rounded company that does its best to ensure every staff member can fit in. They have numerous support facilities and are very organised with with everything they do. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in and you will always be on your toes. The staff are very knowledgeable and understanding if you are new and welcome any questions or support you may have.

Make sure you read up on the company, there are numerous youtube videos specifically on applying to KPMG so try and stand out with the information you present to the interviewer rather than just stating KPMG are part of the big 4 accounting firms etc. For the interview just be yourself, this is more of a chat rather than an interview and the staff do their best to put you at ease. Try and apply as soon as possible to have the best chance of getting in to the firm. My application experience with KPMG has been very positive and I feel like anyone who has prepared enough will have a very solid chance of getting in.