Digital and Risk Advisor Review

As part of the Risk and Advisory team, I undertake a range of activities including internal audits. These involve travelling to client sites and leading meetings to obtain the necessary information to deliver impactful findings and recommendations to improve their businesses. I also carry out UK SOx work which entails working with listed clients over long periods to help them identify their process deficiencies and controls to ultimately collaborate with them to implement recommended business controls. There are never two days that are the same, so there is a great opportunity to continuously learn and get involved in different projects.

After just a few months, I was leading audits myself which involved leading meetings, completing fieldwork and writing detailed reports at the client's site. I travelled internationally and was given the responsibility of documenting and contributing in meetings with FTSE 100 clients. I also led multiple social events within the BDO team.

I have learnt a vast range of client interaction skills from leading and observing countless client meeting. My report writing and attention to detail has been excelled through summarising detailed and complex findings in an efficient way. I have further developed my ability to learn quickly and develop a strong team culture both with colleagues and clients. My time management skills are continuously developing through completing overlapping and fast paced projects.

There is always support available in every engagement with a client. For the first few months you will be shadowing a member of the team and will have the chance to ask every question that comes to mind. You will have a buddy throughout the year in addition to a line manager who are more than happy to answer all your questions.

I was based within the Leeds office and the whole team, roughly 10 people, were in every day of the week. We held regular large social events, such as a Christmas black tie Ball, in addition to frequent smaller events such as a weekly cake club. The team operates over Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool and therefore you will have the chance to travel to other BDO officers and work with people based throughout the UK. The work load will push you to continuously learn however there is no overtime working culture and you will feel completely supported.

I enjoyed every second of the placement due to the BDO team and the opportunities that the company offers in addition to the range of clients and responsibilities that are available. The regular social events quickly absorb you into the team and the work gives you the skills necessary to excel in your degree and future career. The placement year is what you make it!

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