mazars graduate recruitment - Mazars Careers

MAZARS GRADUATE RECRUITMENT For a brighter future

CONTENTS WELCOME 2 WHY MAZARS 4 MAZARS WORLDWIDE 6 WHAT WE LOOK FOR 10 AUDIT 12 TAX 14 IT AUDIT & SECURITY 16 CONSULTING 18 INTERNAL AUDIT 20 WHAT I LIKE ABOUT MAZARS

22

HOW TO APPLY 24 OUT OF THE OFFICE 26 KEY DATES 28 1

WE ARE NOT JUST NUM6ERS

Welcome to the Mazars graduate brochure 2014. You have an important decision to make as you embark on your professional career and the choices you make now will shape and inform your career in the future. Our graduate recruitment process is designed to give you maximum exposure to our culture, our staff and our way of working, as we believe these are important factors in your career choice. We provide excellent training to graduates. At Mazars technical skills are a strong focus, but we also stress the importance of your development in other ways including an understanding of business and the needs of clients.

Mazars Graduate Recruitment Team Olwen, Caroline and Vanessa

We have structured our teams so that you will be given responsibility and exposure to clients from day one. It is a supportive yet challenging environment in which we expect everyone to work hard and provide excellent client service. There is a strong team philosophy and a good work life balance. Mazars staff are energetic and there is always a cultural, social or sporting event to get involved in when not working. Sounds like the place for you? Take a look through the rest of the brochure and get a feel for what we do, how we operate and how you would fit in - then contact us.

At Mazars, we may work with numbers but we all come from different places, cultures and disciplines. We each have our own unique personality and perspective. 2

Outside of the formal recruitment process we would urge you to contact a member of the graduate recruitment team who can answer your specific queries. 3

WHY MAZARS

Because our whole approach is different.

Variety

Training

Clients

Responsibility

You will be given the opportunity to experience different sectors, industries and service offerings throughout your training contract. Our approach means that you gain exposure to a wide variety of work resulting in a broad skills base and deep expertise. Your days will be varied, challenging and rewarding.

We work with outstanding clients including leading private companies in Ireland, multi-national organisations, financial institutions, public sector bodies and not-for-profit organisations.

Career * *

An international and integrated organisation, specialising in Audit, Accounting, Consulting, IT Audit & Security, Tax, Internal Audit and Financial Advisory

*

13,500 professionals operating in 71 countries

*

200 staff and 18 partners in Dublin and Galway

*

4

One of the world’s largest accounting firms

We train you on the technical skills but also develop your business and personal skills. We want you to be a rounded professional who has the ability to become a future partner. We seek to retain staff and offer long term careers.

Work-life Balance

You will be expected to work hard at Mazars and give 100% to everything you do. We believe this is achievable in balance with your personal life. We do not encourage long working hours and once people fulfil their responsibilities, it’s out of the office.

Our training programme is excellent. We offer on the job training that you will not find anywhere else. We also provide structured training programmes and specific pre exam training. Year on year our excellent exam results are evidence of our successful training programme.

You will be given loads of responsibility from day one and photocopying is not a core part of your training!

Worldwide

There are 13,500 Mazars staff across 71 countries. We operate an international mobility policy giving our staff the opportunity to work in Mazars offices worldwide.

Culture

At Mazars we have a down to earth attitude. We focus on working together and getting the job done. Our staff enjoy an excellent rapport that influences the culture and feel of the firm.

Placed 8th in Ireland’s most popular graduate recruiter: accountancy and professional services

5

ON EVERY CONTINENT

EUROPE Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom and Channel Islands (including a representative office in Gibraltar)

13,500

Professionals worldwide

71

ASIA - PACIFIC Australia, China (Mainland & Hong Kong), India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Tajikistan, Thailand, Vietnam

Countries worldwide

200

Staff in Dublin and Galway

20

Graduates places available in 2014

6

AMERICAS Argentina, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Dutch West Indies, Mexico, Peru, Salvador, United States (including representative offices in the Cayman Islands and Israel), Uruguay, Venezuela

MIDDLE-EAST

AFRICA

Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman, The United Arab Emirates

Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon (including representative offices in Chad and Democratic Republic of the Congo), Congo-Brazzaville, Djibouti, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Libya, Madagascar (including representative offices in the Union of the Comoros), Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

7

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PEOPLE

Our culture of teamwork is strengthened by the extracurricular activities we have on offer to our staff. Whether it’s a trip to Killary Adventure Centre, the Christmas party or getting together for a tennis tournament on the Wii at lunchtime, Mazars provides the platform for staff to get to know each other and build friendships.

8

9

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

To succeed at Mazars you need a strong academic background, equally important are your personal qualities and how these influence the way you apply yourself to the role.

Driven by success?

Up for the challenge?

What’s your background?

Want to be more than just a number?

You must have an interest in business and a thirst for learning and developing. We will provide exposure to loads of different skills and areas but you need to actively approach each task so that you get the most out of your experience as a trainee.

Our trainee profile is very diverse. We like interesting people from different backgrounds. We have always recruited people from different disciplines and this adds to the unique culture at Mazars.

People person?

It’s a people business; when you are not dealing with clients you will be dealing with other staff so you will need to be a good communicator and focused on building relationships. We strongly encourage staff to get involved in extracurricular activities and there are plenty to choose from!

10

You should enjoy diversity and challenge. There will never be a dull moment in your career with us – so if you are looking for the tried and trusted way of doing things, Mazars won’t suit you.

You must be ambitious, with a strong sense of responsibility and an interest in making a difference on a professional and personal level. We ask staff to take on a lot of responsibility even in Year 1.

A can-do attitude will also help!

11

AUDIT

Why did you choose Mazars?

With many opportunities open to me as a graduate, I chose Mazars because the training programme provides the opportunity to work on a variety of different jobs and clients. Other factors included direct exposure to the management team up to partner level and the opportunities that an international firm presents. All of the above assured me that I was making the right decision in chosing Mazars and that I would receive the best possible training and support available to graduates.

Tell us about your first month at Mazars Starting any new job is daunting but Mazars induction training quickly put me at ease. I got to know my intake and met with staff members from trainees to partners who were supportive and welcoming. Following induction I was out on my first audit. While I was apprehensive, the team provided me with great support and I was given responsibility for small sections of the audit. Early exposure to jobs and clients was crucial in building my confidence.

What makes life here so enjoyable? The atmosphere in the office is my favourite aspect. While we are dedicated to providing an excellent service to our clients, the people here make it a great place to work. Along with this, the exposure to different types of work ensures that I am learning something new each day.

What’s next for you?

Being a qualified chartered accountant with Mazars, the prospects for me are endless. Within the firm I can progress to manager level in the audit field or I could opt for more diverse experience and request a transfer to another area such as consulting or insolvency. Mazars also offer international mobility opportunities for qualified staff to work in Mazars offices across the world.

What are you working on now?

Sean

As an assistant manager I have a portfolio of clients that I manage on a daily basis. This includes dealing with client queries, organising and planning annual audits, reviewing the audit work and managing the audit team. Since I have become an assistant manager I have been exposed to some very interesting ad hoc projects also. These projects include the development, design and construction of a small company audit template and a pension audit template along with the compilation of reports on the analysis of the top ten agribusiness corporations.

Qualified Accountant Joined Mazars in 2008

12

13

TAX

Why did you choose Mazars?

Out of all the graduate programmes on offer, I chose Mazars because I knew I would not be pigeon holed into one area of Tax. At an early stage in my career I was involved in Tax compliance work but also worked closely with a partner on tax consultancy work. This has broadened my knowledge and given me exposure to a range of different areas such as succession management and research and development tax credits.

Tell us about your first month at Mazars My first two weeks in Mazars involved induction training where I got to know more about the firm, meet my intake and make new friends. What really impressed me was the special evening event that was held to welcome the new trainees into the firm. This was a great night and an excellent opportunity to get to know employees from different departments. Once induction was complete I was given a number of tax assignments to complete with my manager making the first month challenging but really interesting.

What is your most memorable moment so far? I recently introduced a new client to the Tax department. Having met a contact at a Tax networking event I set up a subsequent meeting. I attended the meeting with my manager and the contact is now a valued client of the firm. This was a great experience for me and helped to develop other skills such as relationship management and networking.

What’s next for you?

I recently passed the second stage of the Chartered Tax Advisory exams with the Irish Taxation Institute and I hope to qualify as a Chartered Tax Advisor next year. I will continue to develop my skills within the Tax department as there are plenty of opportunities for career progression within the firm.

What are you working on now?

I recently completed my training contract and will graduate as a qualified Chartered Accountant in October 2013. As a result, I have been given increased responsibility. I have my own portfolio of clients that I manage on a day to day basis. I also deal with consultancy queries and review client activity to ascertain if they qualify for research and development tax relief. I love the range and diversity of the work for which I am responsible.

Laura Tax Consultant Joined Mazars in 2009

14

15

IT AUDIT & SECURITY

What does it mean to work in IT Audit & Security?

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your role?

IT Audit & Security involves hands on exposure to the IT systems and security controls that organisations rely on to deliver services, organise their finances, manufacture products, manage their people and communicate. We review and test cutting edge technologies to help organisations identify, understand and reduce the risks that modern technologies introduce across all sectors of Irish and international commerce.

The fact that I am not tied down to a desk every day is the main thing for me. I visit clients regularly not only in Dublin and Ireland but also overseas. So far this year I have been to London, Brussels and Luxembourg. The most satisfying thing is seeing a client take on board your advice- knowing you make a difference is one of the best rewards as you can see how your contribution enables organisations to become better at what they do.

How do you keep up to date with the latest developments in your field?

You are a qualified IT Auditor – what qualifications did you study?

Here at Mazars we have an IT lab where I spend 15% of my time. It allows me to learn about and test new system environments and complete a myriad of online courses to develop my skills and knowledge. Mazars also supports my attendance at technical conferences and events to keep up to date on what’s current. In my own time I like to follow various blogs, newsfeeds, twitter, tedex and newspaper articles.

Before I joined Mazars I studied the B.Comm in UCD specialising in the MIS stream in my final year. During my training contract Mazars supported me in obtaining a number of relevant professional qualifications to enable me to progress in my role as an IT Auditor. During my training contract I successfully gained the following qualifications;

Where is the most interesting place your work has taken you to? Conor IT Auditor Joined Mazars in 2009

16

• CISA- Certified Information Systems Auditor • CISM- Certified Information Security Manager • CFIP- Certified Forensic Investigation Practitioner • PRINCE 2 Project Management

I had the opportunity to visit the Mazars New York office recently (only 2 mins away from Times Square!). While the purpose of my trip was to learn more about digital research and to cement a relationship between the Irish and New York office, I also managed to fit in some tourist attractions along the way, such as, watching a show on Broadway and visiting the Statue of Liberty on Staten Island.

17

CONSULTING

What does it mean to work in Consulting?

What do you like most about working here?

Consulting involves helping organisations grow and improve by identifying and implementing measures to overcome the obstacles they are facing. Projects can vary from strategic planning, HR and business process to name but a few. Obviously the approach to every project will be different and tailored to what is required by the client. The one thing all projects have in common is that you work very closely with the client in order to develop a strong understanding of their organisation. It is only then that you can begin to develop solutions to address their challenges.

The learning culture in Mazars. There is a strong focus on expanding your knowledge and developing new skills, whether it’s through in-house training and seminars or on the job experience.

What qualifications are you studying as a trainee consultant?

You are continuously being encouraged to take on greater responsibility; I have received constant support and guidance from senior staff members who are accessible and willing to discuss projects with me in order to deepen my understanding of the issues and challenges at play.

Sum up your experience to date in Mazars The ease of interaction with staff at all levels of the firm makes for an enjoyable working environment and a really great learning experience.

PRINCE2 Project Management is the first qualification I completed, as strong project management skills are essential for this role. I draw on these skills on a daily basis. You have a great deal of say in the qualifications you would like to pursue in the consulting team. Since joining the firm I have gravitated towards HR, strategy and business planning projects and therefore I have completed the CIPD HRM diploma and I am about to commence the CIMA qualification. CIMA focuses on business and I will not only be financially qualified but also professionally trained in business management, capable of advising on business strategy and risk management.

Christina 18 22

Consulting Trainee Joined Mazars in 2012

19 23

INTERNAL AUDIT

What attracted you to work in Internal Audit? Internal Audit is a great way to get to know how an organisation is run. You gain exposure to different functions, both financial and non-financial; and develop an understanding of the risks and opportunities encountered by various types of organisations. Working in Internal Audit helps you gain a set of desirable skills which are transferable in various business organisations. Internal Audit is a niche market and the job opportunities are endless at the end of your training contract.

What qualification have you pursued and why? I am currently studying to become a Chartered Accountant. Upon signing my contract with Mazars I was given the option of choosing from one of the following while completing my training contract in the Internal Audit department: ACA, ACCA or an Internal Audit qualification. Personally I went with ACA due to the fact that it is such a well recognised and prestigious qualification. I also felt that since the majority of trainees at Mazars study ACA that it would be great to have the support from others who are going through the same process.

and laughing about the night before, there is a very supportive culture in the office when it comes to work, study and exams.

Describe a typical day working in Internal Audit No two days are the same as the jobs and clients you work with are all so different. One week I could be working in a large government department, while the next I could be working in a small charity somewhere in rural Ireland. This has allowed me the chance to network with other professionals and gain an insight into the work they do. I am confident that this breadth of experience will allow me to not only qualify as a Chartered Accountant but also as a fully rounded business professional.

Sum up your experience to date in Mazars Thinking back to my first day on the job I never imagined that a year on I would be responsible for managing small internal audits- the sense of achievement is fantastic!

What is the social life like at Mazars? Laurene

Through the many events and nights out organised by the Mazars Social Club I have really bonded with my intake and other trainees across the firm, and I’m looking forward to the next big night out already – FAE Results Night. As well as having the craic

Internal Audit Trainee Joined Mazars in 2012 20 22

21 23

HELLO Mark Undergrad: UCC, BSc in Finance Department: Dublin Tax Level: Trainee

“ “

Our weekly tax training sessions have not only increased my tax knowledge but have given me the confidence to interact with clients effectively.

Undergrad: NUI Maynooth, BA in Finance and Accounting Department: Dublin Audit Level: Trainee

“ “ “

From Day 1 in Mazars I was made to feel like part of the team. The great thing about it is whether I need support with my work or studies, there is always someone here to help me out, the sense of community is very strong.

Karen

Undergrad: NUIG, B.Comm Postgrad: University of Ulster, MSc in International Business Department: Dublin Internal Audit Level: Trainee

Lisa

Undergrad: NUI Galway, BA in Maths and English Postgrad: NUI Galway, Higher Diploma in Business Studies Department: Galway Audit Level: Trainee

22

Colin

The variety of my work means that I am continually learning and improving and it also ensures that I remain focused and interested in my work.

While we all work hard at Mazars, there are always fun events and social outings to take the edge off work. I also have made some really close friends along the way.

Kieran

Undergrad: UCC, BSc in Financial Mathematics and Actuarial Science Department: Dublin Consulting Level: Trainee

From the moment I interviewed with Mazars it was clear that this was the place for me. It’s the people that really make this firm such a great place to work.

23

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS

This year we have 20 graduate places on offer across Audit, Tax, IT Audit & Security, Consulting and Internal Audit. We’d love to hear from you.

Application

Go to our careers website mazarscareers.ie and register with us, then complete our online application form. This is your chance to make an interesting first impression. Please tell us about yourself and your career choice. We receive 100’s of applications each year. Your application must stand out. While we are interested in your academic background, equally important are your personal qualities – so tell us who you are. If your application stands out you will be invited to participate in the Mazars interview process. Our process is informal and open, and is designed to provide you with exposure to the firm, our staff and our culture.

There are 4 elements to the process 1. Personal interview

3. Lunch with trainees

2. Aptitude test

4. Open evening

You will meet with a partner and manager to discuss your motivation for applying for a position in Mazars. The interview is an important part of the process and good research and preparation is essential.

You will sit an online aptitude test. There is no preparation required for the test – just a clear head and a focused mind!

You will attend an informal lunch with current trainees. They will tell you about their experiences and you will have the option to ask questions about the day to day role of a trainee.

You will attend a drinks reception and have the opportunity to mingle with staff from across the firm and get a feel for the people and culture of Mazars.

Visit our graduate website mazarscareers.ie or contact Olwen, Caroline or Vanessa in the graduate recruitment team on 01-4494400 or email [email protected]

24

25

GIVING SIDE

SOCIAL SIDE

Cookathon

Staff put their culinary skills to the test cooking meals for the families of seriously ill children in the Ronald McDonald House Crumlin.

Killary Adventure Co. Galway staff testing their strengths and skills in beautiful Killary.

Ice cream Friday

Wow what a great heatwave this Summer! We didn’t waste any time getting an ice cream machine into the office to cool everyone down.

Afternoon tea

Tea and cake were plentiful in the Mazars office on Daffodil Day in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Staff brought along their children for lots of sweets, games and dancing.

Charity run

This year staff got their running shoes on in Dublin and Galway in aid of Aware.

26

Summer BBQ

Everyone enjoyed our annual BBQ at the Hilton in Dublin. First the food, then the dancing.

27

KEY DATES

Wednesday 16th October 2013

The official closing date for applications

Tuesday 22nd October & Thursday 24th October 2013

Open evening in the Sandymount Hotel, Herbert Road, Landsdowne Road, Dublin 4

Monday 21st October 2013 Onwards

Interviews in our Dublin and Galway offices

Monday 3rd November 2014

Start date of your training contract with Mazars

28

For more information mazarscareers.ie Email: [email protected] facebook.com/mazarsireland twitter.com/mazarsireland

Harcourt Centre Block 3 Harcourt Road Dublin 2 Ireland Tel: +353 (0)1 449 4400 Salthill Galway Ireland Tel: +353 (0)91 570 100

Detailed information available on mazarscareers.ie