Jack, a Corporate Assistant at Mazars, a leading professional services firm, tells us about his journey to the firm. You can find out what life’s really like at Mazars, dive into what his role involves and hear about why it’s important to embrace every opportunity.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I’ve always been interested in tasks that have a numerical or data focus, even in school where I completed A-Levels in Business, Economics and Maths. This led me to study Accounting and Finance at Cardiff University, from where I graduated in 2021. Whilst at university, I also completed a placement year which further solidified that I wanted to pursue a career in accounting.
What stood out to you about Mazars when applying for opportunities?
Initially what stood out to me was how Mazars had taken Covid as an opportunity to rebrand and bring a new face to the company, to me, this was really exciting.
On top of this, throughout the application process, Mazars was so supportive and the team helped ease my nerves as much as possible. There were numerous stages to applying but, with the advice and guidance from the team, this was made much less stressful. I’d also say that my experience with Mazars, compared to other employers in the industry, was more personal. I interacted through telephone and video calls not only with the recruitment team but also with current grads to hear their advice and insights.
What do you enjoy most about working as a Corporate Assistant?
There can be a stigma that accounting is boring, but I totally disagree with this. With technological advancements repetitive and standard tasks have been automated, freeing up more time for me to take other opportunities like analysing data and problem solving, aspects of the job I enjoy most.
Another part of my role I love, and something that I think is unique to the culture here, is that I’m given the space to provide my own perspective on topics and issues. In meetings, our ideas as graduates are welcomed and the team actively encourages us to share our ideas, this is rewarding as I feel like I can make a real impact.
What is a ‘normal day’ like in your role as a Corporate Assistant?
Not to sound cliché but, every day is different.
However, on a general basis, mornings might start with a team call where we discuss work allocation and progress on projects as well as look ahead to any upcoming client calls. After this, I would prioritise working on the most urgent tasks so that if any issues were to arise, I could contact clients to overcome these.
Then it comes to lunchtime and, what’s great about Mazars is, you can be flexible as to when you take this, so it works with your diary.
Following this, I may take afternoon calls including a catch-up with my managers to review my progress and I run them through my plan of action with my clients. My managers are always on hand during the day, helping answer my questions and providing me with support when needed. Now, with Covid quietening down, it’s been great that I can do these things back in the office more.
Outside of my day-to-day role, I’m part of the social committee so I arrange events and activities for my colleagues. On the horizon is our big team day to celebrate everyone’s hard work throughout the season.
How would you describe the culture at Mazars?
In one word, I’d say, supportive. There’s a real one-line culture and, with the new hot desk office layout, partners are much more accessible in the office which creates an inclusive feel. The outlook across the firm is that we are one team, and we will succeed as one team, this is evident in how we work here. Because of this, we are encouraged to ask lots of questions and everyone, even partners, is constantly learning.
What piece of advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to Mazars?
Don’t hold back - the world is your oyster here and so embrace any opportunities that come your way. Personally, I’ve joined the Social Committee and volunteer on a programme that helps university students with their applications. These small things make you stand out and enrich your work life.
Ask as many questions as possible – you’re fed so much information, so don’t be afraid to stand up and speak out to find out more or clarify something. The more questions you ask, the more quality work you can provide.
If Jack has got you wanting to join Mazars, why not find out more about the firm here.