Kristinas KPMG360 School and College

Leaver Case Study

Posted: October 12, 2016
Read Kristinas KPMG360 School and College Leaver Case Study
Which areas of the business have you worked in so far? Which has been your
favourite and why?
I have worked in numerous parts of the business including different parts of Audit,
Technology, Tax and Risk Consulting. I am very passionate about technology and
this is the sector I have enjoyed working in the most. I have since decided to
specialise in technology and take the technology route of the KPMG360
programme, which will allow me to study a degree apprenticeship in Digital and
Technology Solutions.
Whats the best thing youve done since joining/whats the best project youve
worked on?
I was lucky enough to get to go to Vienna for a few days! It was a very interesting,
but highly confidential forensic project in risk consulting.
What support have you had/do you get as you study towards qualifications?
Ive always felt supported at KPMG. Each apprentice gets a mentor, a line manager,
a KPMG360 performance manager, a Professional Qualification Team (PQT)
representative and a buddy. Because we have so many people supporting us, there
is always someone available to answer your questions. My team has been very
supportive in terms of helping me understand which career path is best for me.
Are you a member of any KPMG networks or social groups?
Being a member of the LGBT community I joined the Breathe network (KPMGs
LGBT+ network) within the first few weeks of working at KPMG. I think its crucial to
be proactively involved in supporting your community. I also enjoy attending LGBT
related events, encouraging people to join the network and participate.
What are the longer-term opportunities?
I will be on the technology route for the next 5 years. After that I will hopefully get
promoted to Assistant Manager. I definitely see myself in the technology area of the
business.
Did you have any fears before joining?
I genuinely thought that there was no way I would get this job but it would be silly to
not try! I was very unfamiliar with the corporate world and KPMG as I was only 17. I
had also never had a proper interview at that point so I didnt know how to prepare
for it and what kind of questions Id be asked. KPMG held workshops that helped
students understand how the application process will work and what to expect, and I
found these really helpful.
What advice would you give to people thinking about applying?
Id recommend doing a lot of research around the application process, the firm and
the programme you are applying to, as this will help you to understand what the
application process is, and to give you a good idea on what to expect after joining
the firm