Audit Associate Manager – KPMG in the Crown Dependencies

What does a typical day look like for you? 

A typical day starts with a catch-up with my team in the morning, discussing work allocation for the day/week and ensuring that everyone on the team understands their responsibility. The rest of my day is usually spent conversing with clients, coaching assistants and our offshore staff as well as completing my own working papers. My breaks throughout the day are often spent on the pool table in the atrium – a great way to relieve some stress during busy periods!

How did you get your job? / What training, degree, education do you need? 

There are two routes you can take to joining the firm – as a school leaver after completing your A levels or as a graduate after completing your degree.

I undertook a placement at KPMG for two weeks in the summer before I sat my A levels at Victoria College which first introduced me to the firm. I then applied as a school leaver in the 2019 trainee intake a couple of months later and had signed my training contract before sitting my exams.

What are the most important skills needed for your role/job? 

In my experience, showing a willingness to learn and being proactive in your approach to learning whilst demonstrating a strong work ethic will carry you a long way.

Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role? 

Having recently been promoted to the Manager group, the key focuses for me now are developing my soft skills and managing projects effectively. One of the most rewarding aspects of the job has been coaching assistants and seeing their progression over the course of their training contracts. I’m keen to continue improving this skill from a managerial perspective. 

What is the best part of your job? / What motivates you in this role?

I would have to say the best part of my job is working with some incredible people. Our firm is very diverse and full of different cultures and as cliché as it sounds, the people really do make the firm.  There’s a vast array of events on the sports and social calendar which have allowed me to socialise with colleagues from all departments, whether it be through a game of football, bowling or a speed quiz!

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession? 

Do it! The opportunities for professional growth and development are endless.  To gain a professional qualification in three years after completing your A levels provides you with a tremendous platform on which to build a successful and fulfilling career. Another factor that appealed to me was the secondment opportunities that are on offer with the firm which provides you with the chance to complete a placement at a KPMG firm in another country for a set period. I am hoping to take advantage of one of these opportunities in the next year.

What is on your bucket list and why? 

I would like to complete an Iron Man in the next few years. It’s a huge physical and mental challenge and I want to test myself.