Why did you choose a job in this sector/profession?

I chose Accountancy and Audit for many reasons! It’s a profession, stable job and an ability to use numbers! However, for me the main reason is learning about how business works. On a daily basis, I gain an insight into a wide range of business types from owner managed companies to listed corporations. These range from art galleries to technological companies!

What attracted you to your role?

Jeffreys Henry’s vast array of clientele sectors from hospitality to natural resources and the offer of experience on listed clientele was crucial! The focus on technology, peer to peer learning and the firm’s position internationally was really attractive. I have been able to take advantage of the latest technology with internationally based audit clients. There is a large focus on internal training at JH and this was critical. I’m always eager to learn and at JH there is a large focus on gaining new experience and advancing your knowledge! I love this atmosphere!

What was the application process like – any advice?

For me the application process consisted of a cover letter and cv and then also a couple of interviews. I would encourage anyone to be themselves throughout the process and make sure you mention those extra-curricular activities that bring your personality out!

Lastly, I know it’s a cliché but remember to ask those questions and thoroughly think about what you would like from the firm rather than just asking questions to appear interested. For instance, what type of clients would you be interested in, do you want to know about the social atmosphere of the firm, how does the firm support your training programme and are you interested in the longer-term opportunities at the firm after qualification?

What skills are useful in this sector/profession?

For me, time management, critical thinking and communication are critical. At any point in time, I may have multiple deadlines running at once and may need to structure my day accordingly if something new turns up! Think Sherlock Holmes as an audit trainee you are just like a detective looking through the accounts, questioning all kinds of transactions that look unusual! Lastly, I am always needing to communicate the latest status of audits internally or questions of the client externally!

What are your main duties/roles?

When I am not on study, I am currently a semi senior on audits whereby I complete various audit tests on a company’s financial statements. I also mentor and help train new trainees and have become an internal champion for technological products that we use!

What would you like to achieve in the future?

I am open minded about the future, I would love to gain more experience in audit and gain greater responsibility as a manager but then I would love to try a new area and put similar skills to use such as in Forensics!

Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to enter the profession?

Don’t give up on the exams if the combination with work seems overwhelming at the start, keep going! I would also say be open minded and ready to embrace new technologies!