Corporate Audit Trainee Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Moore Stephens. I have had the opportunity to learn from and work with many individuals - at all levels in the organisation. I have worked on a variety of different audit and accounting jobs with companies differing in size and sector. Meeting so many experienced and kind people has been a major highlight.

Working in a multinational firm - it would be logical to expect a degree of anonymity. However, with an integrated appraisal system and open communication in all directions, MS has proved to be a great environment to learn and develop my skills in. It seems, especially in comparison to other firms of similar size (of which I know people working in), you are quickly noticed for quality work, and when you go beyond what is expected of you. Everybody is different with regards to how they express themselves but it is relatively easy to interpret when you have done a good job and your supervisors are thankful for it.

One of the most positive aspects of my placement, and what I believe is Moore Stephens' best attribute, is the people you work with. You are provided with many points of contact in the organisation as soon as you arrive - a 'buddy', a line manager, a partner on your desk. It quickly becomes apparent that these individuals are the key to your success at the firm. For me - these people are my mentors and they are always happy to answer questions and provide you with the support you need.

Your workload will depend on the time of year in audit and accounting due to the seasonal busy periods based on year end dates. However, throughout your year you are booked onto jobs - typically on a weekly basis - this ensures that you experience different types of clients as well as maximising your efficiency to the firm. Personally - I was very busy due to taking on a unique job that was ongoing during 'busy season' which involved managing the bank letter process for our biggest client. This meant I had this work on top of my weekly bookings. I was able to manage my time effectively to benefit from the opportunity without being worked too hard. There are naturally quieter times but there is always work that needs a junior - occasionally it helps if you look for work yourself.

One of my biggest tasks was managing the bank letter process for our biggest client. This was very important as in order to sign off an audit we have to have received all necessary bank letters. As well as this I have been given tasks to complete whole sections in audit testing whilst leaving my effective 'signature' on my workings meaning that I am responsible for the accuracy of this work.

I am studying Business and Management. My module choices for my final year have reflected my year working in audit as I have chosen modules relevant to the work I am doing for Moore Stephens. The content of these modules will reflect much of the experience I have gained on my placement. As well as this, some of these modules are backed by ICAEW and will therefore be directly relevant to the ACA qualification I hope to complete post university at Moore Stephens.

Professional but also welcoming place to work. The nature of people being happy to help along with the firm encouraging communication in all directions results in conversation being common place. The Company operate using a hot desk system meaning that you are often sat next to different people each week and therefore have the opportunity to converse with a range of individuals.

The firm train you internally and place you on courses that are designed to help improve your technical skills as well as develop knowledge in specific industries relevant to our clients. Further more you are provided with the opportunity to study for, and gain a professional qualification, in a external bookkeeping exam. The firm also provide tutor help on aspects you may find difficult and need help with.

I am currently 7 months into my 12 month placement with Moore Stephens. So far my feedback has been very positive and I very much hope that towards the end of my placement, discussions of future employment with MS in the form of graduate roles will go forward. For now, I will continue to immerse myself in my role and enjoy the rest of my time on placement - I am hoping this will lead to future opportunities to continue to work in MS.

I am part of an intake of approximately 30 new starters - mainly graduates, apprentices and other placement students. We frequently organise our own social events - usually drinks and nights out at the end of the week. MS also fully subsidise desk socials that occur monthly (approx.) as well as 2 very large events being the Christmas and Summer party. The Christmas party is nothing short of extraordinary.

Moore Stephens is based in Barbican which is in central London. The office is 50 yards from the tube station. This provides endless opportunities for locations for Friday night drinks. Doing a placement in London has exposed me to what life is like living in London - the nightlife is one of the many reasons I hope to return here after university!