We’ve seen what life is like for a Semi-Senior accountant, but what do our auditors get up to? We sat down with Senior Auditors, Luke Shelley and Riaan Pretorius, to find out more about their career with us so far…
How did your journey with DJH Mitten Clarke begin?
LS: Just before I started with DJH Mitten Clarke, I’d actually decided to leave the life of audit behind to look for a more rounded role – but I quickly realised that audit was for me after all.
I’d only ever heard positive things about the ethos and culture of DJH Mitten Clarke from former colleagues, so I made the jump back to audit with their team and haven’t looked back since.
RP: My journey began when my family and I moved from Yorkshire to Shropshire last summer. As I was on a Skilled Worker Visa I needed an employer that was willing to sponsor me (and this is not something that a lot of firms offer).
I was thrilled to hear that DJH Mitten Clarke were going to start the process of obtaining a sponsorship licence – this highlighted to me that they appreciate the opportunities and benefits of employing people from diverse backgrounds, so I was extremely excited to start.
What does ‘a day in the life of an auditor’ look like?
LS: This often involves a journey on the motorway – we’re definitely well-travelled! However, it’s worth it as being on-site allows us to better understand the client’s operations and helps us add value to their business through the review of systems and controls.
The range of clients we work with on a daily basis ensures a challenging yet interesting working environment. Working with a strong, tight knit and talented team makes life much easier and helps with my professional development too.
RP: Every day is different as each project comes with its own challenges and opportunities. We get to know our clients and their business, working as a team to share knowledge and ideas to add value to their business. Discussions can range from technical accounting issues to audit strategy and approach.
The only constant is that each day starts with a cup of tea or coffee!
How have DJH Mitten Clarke helped you achieve your ambitions?
LS: From strong study support and on the job training, to detailed courses on standard updates – they’ve always helped me to progress to where I want to be in my career.
For example, I became qualified around 18 months ago now, and since then I have been given increased responsibility in the form of my own group of audit clients to lead on.
RP: There is a sense of growth and willingness to embrace change and new ideas which has enabled me to work on a variety of new projects in new industries, as well as helping me gain experience working in the UK.
How do you work with your team to achieve great things for your clients?
LS: When out on site, working as a team is vital to achieving great things. Motivation is key and it’s important to ensure that everyone is comfortable with their tasks at hand. Without providing support and advice to each other, deadlines would never be met – which is why it’s great that as a department we all work so well together.
RP: Every team member has an important part to play for each of our clients. A big part of my day consists of helping others achieve their goals with quality and client services in mind. We have an extremely talented team, so it’s brilliant to gain feedback from them.
What have been your ‘best bits’ since joining the team?
LS: Becoming fully qualified is probably the highlight of my time with the company, I was grateful to be surrounded by such an approachable team as I definitely wouldn’t have been able to do it without their support.
RP: I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the people and area – the team have helped me with my culinary tour of the UK by introducing me to a Staffordshire favourite – the humble oatcake! Our wellbeing and social calendar allows us to enjoy a range of different cuisines.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying?
LS: If you want to work with a great team, as well as being exposed to a wide range of clients, then send a copy of your cv over.
RP: Get in touch with Liam, our Talent Sourcing Executive, who will talk you through our opportunities available and how we can use your skills and experience to achieve great things together.
We’re on the lookout for ambitious individuals to join our fantastic team, so if you like the sound of us and would like to join Luke and Riaan as our next Senior Auditor, send your CV to liam.cox@djhmittenclarke.co.uk.
Find out more about careers at DJH Mitten Clarke here.
