Audit associate Review

Item: Audit associate at KPMG
Rating: 3.4
Author: Anonymous

at KPMG

Level 2 Apprenticeship

Accounting

London

Review Submitted: December 2020

Overall Rating

3.4 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

3.5/5 - Overview of Role

4/5 - Skills Development

2.8/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

4/5

My role includes managing the daily trackers and sending out emails of the documents that we need, liaising with the client. I work in the Digital Audit section and I have worked on the SofD control. I enjoyed my time there because I have learnt a lot about new software and the ERP softwares that the clients use such as SAP and Oracle. I have learnt new things which makes me feel good. I feel that people are very helpful.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

3/5

I am happy with the experience because I feel satisfied with the time I spent there. I did however feel I could have gotten more out of the experience. I could have learnt more new things and I felt that the company didn't facilitate that as well as I thought. I do feel that I could have enjoyed more if there was more socialising activities. This is mainly why I feel that I couldn't get most out of the experience.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

4/5

I have learnt new skills such as new software like Alteryx and Tableau. I have learnt how to visualise data and analyse data. I also improved specific soft skills such as communication and liaising. I am happy with the experience because I feel satisfied with the time I spent there. I did however feel I could have gotten more out of the experience. I could have learnt more new things and I felt that the company didn't facilitate that as well as I thought.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

3/5

With us going on placement in busy season it means we are constantly busy and therefore get a lot out of the placements, instead there been times when it is quiet and you don't have much to do. There is a great network of people there to support you and everyone is more than willing to answer any questions you might have. We receive good training in preparation for going on placement as well.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

3/5

There are a large range of support networks in place. Every office has a an apprecntice champion who is in contact before you start on placement and helps you to settle into the office. You also have a buddy who is there to support you and answer any questions you may have. My career coach has helped me greatly. Outside of that my people manager and generally everyone I have worked with have been more than happy to answer any questions I have had.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

2/5

I have a mentor at university who I can speak to if I have any problems. In addition to this a lot of the staff are supportive and are willing to help deal with any problems. The ICAEW also provide good support that you know is there if you need it. I do think there's a lack of communication pathways as I can't easily reach out. I had to call every time I needed some advice on.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

3/5

Icaew is a global well known brand. It has tough exams and qualifying for it means it is an achievement. I feel that it has prepared me well so far however, it lacks meaning sometimes. I think they can do better by providing more opportunities for the students so we can do more internships. Their guidance for students seems weak even though they take pride in their work. I think they can do better for the students.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

3/5

There are many opportunities outside of work. We have an office social club and there have been regular office socials such as a games and pizza night. We have a weekly or biweekly social which is a game night. I have yet to experience a lot of socials but I think they are engaging people. I have also been invited to various networking events. there are regular talks and town halls as well. which is interesting. I think it’s nice to take part in such activities as it helps build up a bond with other people.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend KPMG to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I have loved my time on the apprenticeship course and working with KPMG. The work is challenging but being able to work on a wide range of clients that vary in size means that no two days are the same. You are constantly interacting with new people. KPMG have made me feel valued highly. Most importantly the people are all very friendly and have been brilliant to work with. I do think there are ways to make the course better however.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to KPMG?

I would tell them that it is a brilliant experience and they won't regret applying. The interview days are way more relaxed than you would expect and are just a chance to show why you are suitable for the course. The work is really challenging but you are rewarded well and expectations of you aren't unrealistic. If you want to enjoy university life whilst also gaining valuable work experience then this course is perfect. I think developing a professional mindset from the start is a key to a job like this.

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