What’s been your best
experience?
It’s impossible to pick one, but it’s always
great when clients tell me we’ve added value to their business.
Many people assume that auditors are only there for legal
compliance reasons, so when clients recognise the wider benefits we
bring them, there’s always a real sense of achievement.
How would you describe the training
and development here?
The firm places a huge emphasis on
professional development. As well as technical training, there are
a range of skills courses in areas such as presentation and
negotiation. The firm has its own training facility. The quality of
teaching is exceptional. I have been on several courses there, and
all of them have been extremely useful.
What’s the working culture
like?
Very supportive. The opinion of each team
member is always valued here. It doesn’t matter what stage you are
in your career, your voice will be heard. We also emphasise
teamwork. You’ll regularly find yourself drawing on the knowledge
and expertise of other people across the firm.
How do you think clients perceive the
firm? What does Grant Thornton offer them that other firms
don’t?
Clients see us as trusted advisors. We help
them to develop their strategies and regulate their businesses.
Where appropriate, we will challenge their decisions and offer them
alternative solutions.
I believe Grant Thornton is different in three
ways. First, our partners are much more involved in every project.
Each of our client-service offerings has a team with strong input
from partners where required. Second, we insist on using local
teams to deliver solutions. Third, we work harder than anyone else
to understand our clients’ businesses. We aspire to be their
strategic partners.
Tell us something surprising about the
firm.
I think a lot of people would be surprised by
how friendly we are. Everyone – from partners to non-fee earning
staff – is very approachable. There’s a relaxed atmosphere and
we’re less hierarchical than many firms out there. Likewise, some
of the ways we communicate might surprise, too. We’re constantly
innovating in this area. For example, our CEO recently set up an
intranet blog that allows employees to comment on topical issues
within the firm.