Audit Associate Review

I really enjoyed my placement at Grant Thornton . I was treated as a graduate and was never short of work. The responsibility you get given is real and there are lots of opportunities to get involved in events outside of work. I would highly recommend!

Everyone was really helpful and friendly. They wanted you to develop and learn, so always supported me wherever possible. Although I was a placement student, I was always treated as a grad and I was able to give my input when I wanted.

Management were always supportive and took upon feedback which was really good to see. Everyone is assigned a people manager and a buddy so any questions can be directed at them. Senior Managers and Directors are also more than happy to help!

I always found something to do even in my less busier periods. During busy season (Jan- March), the work really picked up and I was booked back to back on different jobs. It's important to note that how busy you are also depends on what stage of the audit you are working on, so less busier times are expected (and you will be thankful for them!).

I was given a lot of responsibility from managing sections of a file, to managing small subsidiaries of a business. The development is so immense and valuable as you learn a lot in such a short space of time.

In terms of the content, i.e audit work, this would not be relevant for my degree in mathematics. However, I developed a lot of skills such as networking which will prove to be useful beyond education.

The Birmingham office is really well knitted and the atmosphere reflected this. The majority are quite young despite working at management positions (which shows the rapid progression you can make at GT). Everyone is supportive and friendly - I think we're called the "Friendliest GT Office"!

Undertaking a placement is no different to joining as a school leaver or grad, so it is organised in the same way, except your people manager should ensure you are exposed to a lot of the work. This is so you can make an informed decision of you actually enjoy it. The only drawback is the uncertainty of securing a grad job when we finished as we didn't know when we would find out.

As mentioned previously, you are treated like a graduate so you still attend training and Bradenham workshops but you do not go to college or sit the ACA examinations. This is the only difference. The firm really do invest in you because they want you to come back!

Very appealing, GT is a really good place to work, regardless of which department you choose to work in. The people are Grant Thornton's greatest asset and they really invest in you.

The social scene is excellent! Everyone went to the pub every lunch if you were in the office. There were Friday after work drinks and lots of events outside of work too. GT organise a summer party, BCASS Ball, Christmas party, netball/football/cricket tournaments to name a few!

I can't comment on the cost of living as I lived at home, but the social life in Birmingham was really good. It's a vibrant city with lots to do.

The nightlife was very good! There are lots of bars, pubs and clubs in Birmingham so there's something for everyone!

Yes, there are lots of opportunities is you want to get involved, such as sporting events etc. You can even organise your own clubs and events if you like.