From gaining the ACA and ILM qualifications to developing critical soft skills, the programme provided the perfect foundation for success. Here’s how those four years transformed my journey and why I believe it’s one of the best opportunities for aspiring professionals.

Reflecting on my career, the trainee programme at Audit Wales has been crucial in accelerating my professional growth over the past decade. When I joined the programme ten years ago, I gained invaluable skills and countless benefits that have shaped my career. The programme's well-structured approach, designed to develop well-rounded chartered accountants within four years, was a huge advantage. The ACA qualification, which is well-known and respected, opened many doors across various sectors and industries, allowing me to think critically and provide valuable insights.

However, technical knowledge alone isn't enough to make a big impact. It's essential to pair it with soft skills. One unique aspect of the Audit Wales trainee programme is the simultaneous study of the ILM qualification alongside the ACA. This combination helped me develop crucial skills like influencing, coaching, managing difficult conversations, and boosting self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

Acquiring these skills and growing professionally over four years is no small feat and shouldn't be underestimated. The supportive environment at Audit Wales provides the best platform for success. With colleagues who have undergone similar training, there's a strong sense of empathy and support, making it possible to thrive.

I initially joined the trainee scheme to gain qualifications, knowing they would open many doors after training. However, I was loving my time at Audit Wales and knew there was still skills that I could develop. After finishing the trainee scheme, I secured an audit lead role focusing on financial audits. Three years ago, I transitioned to an audit manager position in our performance audit team. This role shift, despite not requiring an accountancy qualification, highlighted the true value of the trainee scheme. The soft skills from the ILM, along with my experience in coaching, management, and critical thinking, enabled me to excel in a completely different type of work.

What I love most about working in audit is the variety it offers. As someone who quickly tires of monotony, the diverse challenges and dynamic team environment ensure that no two days are the same. Whether solving technical accounting problems, exploring new software, or navigating different personalities, there's always something new. The trainee programme provided a unique perspective on the public sector in Wales and various finance roles. During my four years, I even had a secondment to the BBC for five months, where I expanded my knowledge in financial reporting, management accounting, and business partnering. I worked on audits ranging from small central government bodies with £700,000 annual spending to large councils and health boards with budgets exceeding a billion pounds.

Currently, as a trainee line manager, being involved with the trainee scheme again brings immense job satisfaction. I can see the continuous improvements and investments made in the programme, making it an exceptional offering where one can balance professional development, studies, and personal life. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities provided by Audit Wales throughout my time with them and highly encourage anyone considering it to give the trainee scheme a try.

About the author

Carwyn joined Audit Wales in June 2015, following his graduation with a Mathematics degree from Aberystwyth University. Throughout his career at Audit Wales, Carwyn has worked in both Financial and Performance Audit, and has undertaken a secondment at the BBC. Outside of work, Carwyn enjoys sports and travelling.