Corporate Assistant Review

I am involved in ensuring the reliability and completeness of financial statements produced by local government and NHS bodies. As a junior I am responsible for tasks such as sample testing, to ensure areas like expenditure are not over/understated, and comparing figures used by clients to the correct supporting documentation, ensuring there is a clear and proper audit trail in place for transactions made.

As you get more comfortable in your role, you start to be given greater responsibility for your own sections of an audit. At the start, new joiners are generally given the same areas on the first few audits. But, some months down the line these areas are expanded and you have the chance to experience testing in new areas. You will often seek assistance and support from senior members of staff but this is expected.

A big skill to learn whilst in audit is communication with clients. In my role, I am often in discussions with the client whether that be on site at their offices or over teams calls and emails to resolve any issues we have. You're able to gain valuable experience by working for and with people with years of expertise in finance which you can then transfer into your own work.

Support at Mazars was excellent as you are continually guided through your work with the help of colleagues. It is widely understood for students to have limited applied knowledge in accounting so mistakes are common and you are expected to learn and understand these. Mazars are accommodating when it comes to exams, and seem to understand the pressures that come along with studying alongside full-time work.

The general atmosphere was positive, with there being regular socials to attend and a friendly group of colleagues. By doing the professional exams, you get to know so many more people who are on the same pathway as you, and is a good way to get to know others when studying. There are also many networks available to join, such as a football network who organise local 5-a-side games.

The placement has been a great way to introduce me to life after university. I feel like it has given me valuable experience to use in my final year, and yet again to apply in my role when I hopefully come back! Mazars are a good firm to work for, and offer flexible ways of working and envoke a great culture.

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