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Hello all. It has been a busy few weeks up here in Advisory. I’ve been part of an interesting project for the past two months. We are in the first phase of a Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Implementation for a large bank. This has involved meeting staff from all over the bank and attempting to understand and document their processes. This project has involved a large amount of time interviewing the client and dealing with them. So much so, that myself and another associate were based out on the client-site for a few weeks. This helped us to become more ‘visible’ and helped us to develop relationships with people in the bank. Once I understood these processes, I created flowcharts to depict how and what happens when. From here I mapped risks and potential controls to an RCM (Risk Control Matrix). I’ve learnt a huge amount from this project. My technical skills, including my Microsoft Visio and Excel skills have come on in leaps and bounds. I’ve also learnt a lot about risk, controls and how to look for mitigating controls. This has given me a solid base upon which to build an understanding of risk; a fundamental aspect of any business, regardless of industry. I’ve been lucky enough to work with people who have experience in implementing a SOX programme and feel I have learnt a huge amount from them. I’ve also had a two-week training course in Spencer Dock. Regardless of level, staff take part in annual training. The training focuses on both technical ‘upskilling’ and theory. It is aimed at arming staff for the year ahead with the right tools. Although there is an expectation to utilise the course and learn as much as possible, it’s also a bit of craic. We covered everything from excel tips to International Accounting Standards to soft skills. It’s a time where you can catch up with people you haven’t seen for months. It’s also a welcome week without suits and client work. Needless to say, there are some social events planned that week! I’m off down to Cork for a couple of weeks from Monday. Part of the reason I enjoy my time in advisory stems from the variety of projects, industries and locations. I’ll be staying at my parents place down there which means I will be get some nice home cooked dinners! I’ll be doing some IT General Controls Testing down there. Although this is not the typical work I do, I will be working with some very experienced individuals who can show me the way.
