Vice President of Corporate Relations
What’s the first word that comes to mind when you hear the word “Audit”? What’s your first reaction when you hear that someone works in Audit? What’s your perception of the tasks the role entails?
On a high level, the responses aren’t ideal. You’re often left wondering, why would someone willingly want to work in audit? Let’s be real – Audit has gained a bad reputation around the world for being a “demanding” career path - something that people only work in to gain foundational knowledge with the aim to later move into another field within the professional services. However, I am personally drawn to the nature and intricacies within this space and seek to portray audit beyond these misconceptions. Working across varied industries with different clients each time means understanding new systems and processes. I see it as producing high quality work, ensuring accurate and transparent reporting, and looking at every challenge with a fresh perspective.
Over the November-December period, I undertook a vacation placement at BDO Australia, within the Audit and Assurance service line and enjoyed every moment of it. From drafting up workpapers to attending client meetings and working out of different offices, being around a team of talented and experienced professionals has provided a more practical picture of the role. As a part of my placement, our group of vacationers were assigned an Innovation Challenge with the aim to find strategies, programs, and initiatives to engage high school students to pursue a degree in Accounting and Commerce, and drive participation in this professional industry. Within this, I had the privilege of interviewing Cameron Henry, an Audit Partner with in-depth experience over his successful career.
As a graduate from QUT's Bachelor of Business program, he has gained vast experience working at various firms. To indulge his love for travel, among other short-term visits across the globe, he has worked in Hong Kong and London for several years. From our interaction, one element is clear: there is a decrease in the fascination for the profession. The biggest cause: misconceptions and lack of information!
Cameron was drawn to this professional service when a partner made a visit to his high school. His presentation instantly captured Cameron’s attention, so much so that he wrote a letter to apply for a job with the firm while still studying! Similarly, my passion for accounting stems from an fantastic tutor I had at school. This goes to show that it’s the atmosphere of learning and positive encouragement coupled with a spark for curiosity that forms a crucial foundation to the path each individual treads.
“Auditors are boring” they say. Cameron is one of many examples to show you the complete picture – Auditors are actually so interesting! Through his experiences in industry, he has been able to delve into his personal interests. From dining out and attending shows, to immersing himself into new cultures and meeting different people, Cameron describes his journey as being an extravagant and fulfilling adventure. He is an advocate for strong work culture and firmly believes that everyone’s approach to tasks and challenges lies in their attitude. When talking about the most exciting aspect of his role, he expressed it as seeing individuals progress through the ranks; starting afresh and making their way up, thereby reinforcing his people-centric nature.
In a nutshell, “It’s been the good people and culture with good intentions and values” that have kept Cameron driven to the firm coupled with the right approach to challenges, as and when they arise. He deeply strives to achieve a balance in all his undertakings and encourages others to establish the same in their work and personal lives. While working to manage client expectations and ensuring regulations are complied with, auditors find themselves walking on a tightrope. However, there is no match to the feeling of accomplishment that comes with resolving the same. Looking into the future, the technical challenges surrounding this industry include increased risks of fraud, more scrutiny and regulation due to past corporate failure and scandals, as well as the growing commoditisation of the profession.
In addition, employers foresee a rising issue with regards to attraction of talent – young individuals may see audit as menial box ticking and compliance work. However, it’s so much more: it’s fresh and different each week – it’s collaborating with incredible teams – it’s attention to detail and new learnings at every corner – it’s a profession that’s no doubt exciting! On a personal note, from a first-year attending the UQBA Accounting Panel to a vacationer working at BDO, I have not only gained valuable insight but have also been greatly encouraged to ask questions, share my point of view, and truly understand my field of interest on a granular level -providing me with the real picture.
Coming back to my team’s idea for our pitch: a Professional Services Immersion Program at a high school level, much like UQBA’s very own inaugural Mentorship Program running in Semester 2! This initiative seeks to foster a deeper connection between our members and partner firms by hosting a series of compelling events and sessions, creating a more personalised and engaging experience. If you’re keen to build meaningful relationships with professionals working in your area of interest, or you simply want to explore all there is to offer – join us as we help you navigate the everchanging industry landscape and connect you with your future employers!
