"I had previously spent 7 months working with BDO Simpson Xavier Dublin as part of my UL Co-operative Education placement and was aware that the training programme was excellent. BDO are very supportive of their trainees and have an excellent track record in exam results.

The best thing about selecting BDO Simpson Xavier’s programme is the high level of practical experience you receive. Due to the nature of the client base in BDO assignments clients of all sizes and involves numerous different areas of specialist accounting approaches. This practical experience is invaluable when it comes to gaining all round training.

I particularly like the diversity of the projects I am now involved in. Projects range from company audits, due diligence assignments, MBO engagements, liquidations, preparation of business plans and projections. Some of the more interesting assignments I worked on included an MBO of a large company with a turnover in excess of €100m, monthly preparation of consolidated accounts and budgets for large multinational companies and members voluntary liquidation. I have worked on numerous audits of companies across all industries, a number of large due diligence assignments, preparation of business plans and projections for a number of high profile clients.

I have gained an all round training experience, encompassing the fundamental characteristics of a Chartered Accountant in addition to excellent exposure to commercial and business transactions. It has helped me develop key skills in communication with clients, commercial transactions, property transactions, analytical techniques, business review techniques and legal transactions.

The work environment is a major plus for me. There is an excellent atmosphere to work in and there is a very young employee base. There is also an active sports and social committee in place with plenty of opportunities outside work to socialise with colleagues."