Thinking about work-based training in audit?
Audit Associate, Harvey, tells us about his experience of starting a career in accounts and audit.
Harvey is studying with Leeds-based Kaplan Financial towards a Level 3 AAT qualification. We asked him about his journey into a career in accountancy and finance.
Why did you choose to study for a career in accountancy and finance?
“I’d had interest in working in accountancy since starting secondary school. However, what attracted me to audit was work experience at an accountancy firm where I found my day in audit was by far the most enjoyable day of the week.”
What career path have you opted for?
“Prior to this apprenticeship I had no experience in finance or audit other than my work experience. To date my career path has consisted of completing my GCSE’s at secondary school, A level’s at college and work experience in a relevant firm.”
I chose to work at Parsons because of what I’d been told about the positive working environment. For me the most important thing in a job is the environment you’re working in. Having the right people around you to create a positive working atmosphere is key to enjoying any job in my opinion.
“Another factor of why I chose to work at Parsons is because of the firm’s values and also the aims of the company. I like the fact the firm has a clear direction and vision for the future.”
The job is in fact everything I hoped for, I couldn’t ask for a better team to work around with everyone being so welcoming and supportive when I first started.
“A concern of mine before starting was being stuck with work and not knowing where to turn for help or being too scared to ask someone for help but this has never been the case. It was made clear to me that if I was ever unsure about something to just ask, which I’ve done plenty of times and various members of the team have taken time out to ensure I’m learning, progressing and I understanding the work I’m doing.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others looking to join the accountancy and audit profession?
“I’d absolutely recommend the apprenticeship route into accountancy and audit based on my experiences. There are obviously other routes (such as studying accountancy at university).
“I find I learn a lot more rapidly and effectively from getting hands-on experience, rather than from theoretical studies. During the day job I’m alongside colleagues with years of experience and they’re so happy to help and guide me – and I’m working on real client audits. This experience is simply not possible to get via an academic route.”
The apprenticeship gives me client-facing work experience, time in college and exams blended into the program. I think gaining experience this way is so much more beneficial than a traditional university or college course route. I feel prepared for work, and supported in the workplace.
Describe a typical day in your role
“I wouldn’t particularly say there is a ‘typical day’ in my role, which is one of the reasons I enjoy the job so much. Every day is different which I find amazing as I feel as if it can be a bit tedious if you’re to do the exact same thing day in day out.”
My favourite aspect of the role is going out to client sites and working with a variety of different clients from different industries. I find it very interesting to hear about what they do and the history of their company.
What’s next for your career?
“I don’t quite know where I’d like to be in 5 years’ time I don’t have a particular goal. My main aim is to keep progressing, become qualified at a higher level and hopefully along side this end up taking on another role with more responsibility.”
Want a flexible work/life balance and an opportunity to channel your passion for finance and data into transformative client service? Please get in touch with us if you are interested in an apprenticeship or work-based study route into accountancy and finance.
Our people are our biggest asset and we’re keen to welcome new talent at all experience levels. Whether you’re looking to enter the finance profession as a trainee, or you’re an experienced professional moving from a larger firm, we would love to hear from you. www.parsons.co.uk/careers
