Audit vs. Advanced Business Services (ABS): School-Leaver/Graduate Roles
Purpose of the Role
Audit
Audit professionals play a critical role in independently reviewing financial statements to ensure accuracy, compliance, and transparency. It’s a career that demands precision, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility - making it both challenging and deeply rewarding.
ABS
Supports clients with operational, financial, and digital transformation services, often involving process improvement and technology enablement.
Typical Work Activities
Audit
- Assessing risks to businesses and testing their financial controls and transactions
- Reviewing financial records and systems to ensure they meet regulatory standards
- Occasionally working on-site with clients during audit periods, often under tight deadlines
- Preparing audit documentation and reports that may inform major business decisions
ABS
- Assisting with finance operations (e.g. accounts payable/receivable)
- Supporting digital tools and automation projects
- Data analysis and reporting
- Working on internal process improvement initiatives
Client Interaction
Audit
High client exposure, especially during audit fieldwork. You’ll often work face-to-face with finance teams and senior stakeholders, building strong professional relationships and gaining insight into how different businesses operate.
ABS
Varies by project; may be more internal or remote, with some client-facing opportunities.
Skills Developed
Audit
- Exceptional attention to detail and analytical thinking
- Professional scepticism and ethical judgement
- Deep understanding of financial reporting standards
- Confidence in communicating findings and recommendations
ABS
- Operational efficiency and process thinking
- Digital literacy (e.g. Excel, automation tools)
- Project management and delivery
- Communication and collaboration across teams
Career Progression
Audit
A structured route to becoming a Chartered Accountant (ACA), opening doors to senior roles in finance, risk, and compliance. With experience, you could become a Responsible Individual (RI) and sign off audits as a partner in an audit firm or become a CFO!
ABS
Progression into business operations, transformation, or consulting roles. May pursue qualifications in project management, data analytics, or digital technologies.
Work Environment
Audit
Fast-paced and deadline-driven, with opportunities to travel to client sites and gain exposure to a wide range of industries. It’s a dynamic environment where no two days are the same.
ABS
More structured and consistent; office-based or hybrid working with varied project timelines.
Balancing Study and Work
Audit
Studying for professional exams while working in audit is demanding - but it builds resilience and time management skills that will serve you throughout your career. You’ll be supported by mentors and peers who understand the challenge and are invested in your success.
ABS
While study commitments may vary, you’ll still need to manage learning alongside project work. The environment tends to offer more predictable routines, which can help with planning and balancing responsibilities.
