Audit Associate Review

I have only been at Grant Thornton 3 months but I am really enjoying it so far! The office has a really good vibe and everyone is easy to get along with. Every week has been different so it's gone really fast! Training at Grant Thornton is a lot different to other companies, they have a manor house called Bradenham manor in Oxfordshire where people go for workshops. I went for my training with some other new starters nationwide, it's great to meet new people with the same experiences as you, there's also a bar and games room to go in the evening to chill out. There are lots of opportunities available at Grant Thornton, I have been on secondment in the marketing department a few times. It's good to see what happens in other departments and how every department works together.

I do feel valued by my employees, as my opinion is always asked as they like to get a different view from a fresh pair or eyes. All of my colleagues are really friendly and approachable which is important when you've got a lot of questions to ask!!

When I got the job I was assigned a buddy and a line manager who I can go to if I need anything. When out on audit jobs the in-charge's have been really helpful and patient as they understand my position.

Quite busy, even if you aren't booked on a job there is still lots of stuff to help out with in the office.

A lot of responsibility, I am treated the same as a first year graduate so I was straight out working on jobs from the beginning.

I have already developed a lot of skills which will aid me in the future, such as; professional, communication and time-management skills. I am sure there is still lots to be learnt and will develop more as time goes on.

There is a relaxed but professional atmosphere in the office. As it is open plan, it has to be relatively quiet so people can get on with work. However you can still chat to others and there is a break out area with a vending machine and bean bags where you can for breaks and lunch so that you aren't disturbing others. As my placement is auditing I am out at clients a lot of the time so I don't spend much time in the office.

As the placement year is a national scheme it is very organised. I had my training with new starters nationally and I also go to Bradenham manor with all the placement students to learn more about the company and develop our skills for later life. We have set appraisals each year and can request feedback on performance on most jobs that you go on so you always know how to improve. Most training and learning is done on-the-job.

The company really invests in your training and development because they aim to bring you back after placement into a graduate role. So far, as I said previously I have got the chance to work in different departments, train at Bradenham and set personal goals for the year of what I want to get out of the placement. My line manager will support me to achieve these goals.

Really appealing, if I was to get offered a place on the graduate programme you get a 3 year training contract to do your ACA financial qualification. Also, revision periods for exams are generous! You get given responsibility from the start which gives you hands on, practical experience for the future.

There is a lot of young people on the graduate schemes so there are plenty of people to go out with. Grant Thornton do a lot of events with S&DCASS and SYP which organise local events for accountancy firms in Sheffield for young people which are great for having a laugh whilst networking! There is always something happening! Also, Grant Thornton have their own Sheffield netball team which do night outs.

I currently live at home so I don't have to pay rent or anything, but Sheffield is reasonable for rent. Also, going out isn't pricey either, a lot of the work nights out are subsidised.

Sheffield has a good night life scene with a few clubs and loads of bars to offer!

I am currently involved with universities in the area, advertising Grant Thornton and our graduate/placement schemes. I did the Uni of Sheffield careers fair a few days ago which was fun and nice to go back to uni for a day!!