A Return to growth: Phoebe’s journey from accounting to audit

(Images: Pictures of Phoebe Sim in various locations at the Mazars in Singapore office, last photo featured from left to right: Heimen Hoy, Tay Wei Ting and Phoebe Sim)

1. How was your first experience at Mazars in 2019, and what made you decide to return for an internship?

Previously, I was an accountant in the Outsourcing department. I had a productive career, where I took on various responsibilities, including preparing full sets of financial accounts on a monthly and quarterly basis under SFRS, handling GST returns and assisting with tax compliance matters.

The inclusive culture at Mazars is what drew me to return for an internship here while on term break. Even as an intern, I felt fully integrated into the team, participating in team outings and meetings, making me feel valued and contributing to a fulfilling and enriching experience.

2. Can you share a memorable experience from your internship?

A memorable aspect of my internship was the exceptional organisational skills demonstrated by my seniors. Their meticulous approach ensured that we never felt lost during our work, and they regularly checked in on us, fostering efficiency for both me and my team.

3. What unique opportunities or challenges did you encounter during your internships that have shaped your perspective on the Audit profession?

Before this internship, Audit is a mundane work which is reviewing of accounting work. However, having hands-on experience, I understand that it is more than just that. Audit includes analytical skills and professional scepticism which comes with not only book knowledge but also experience.

4. Could you highlight a specific skill you have developed during your internship that you believe will be valuable in your career?

I think it is to be able to keep an open mind to learning new things. Embracing a growth mindset allows me to approach challenges strategically which will help me as an accountant.

5. How would you describe the work culture and environment at Mazars?

Mazars has a very warm and inclusive company culture. It is easy to just go up to someone and have a conversation. The working environment is professional yet open enough for anyone to raise questions and get answers, fostering a sense of collaboration.

6. During your time here, have you had the chance to work closely with any mentors or senior professionals who have provided guidance and support? 

I have worked with my seniors closely who has kindly guided me for audit engagements. Beyond handling routine tasks, they took the time to share the rationale behind different steps we take for each engagements. This thoughtful approach deepened my understanding in audit and appreciate the work that we do.

7. Did you have opportunities to collaborate with other interns or colleagues on team projects? How did these experiences contribute to your work experience?

During my internship, I had the opportunity to work with two distinct teams on different audit engagements. This allowed me to experience diverse working styles which make my internship experience well-rounded and enriching. This skill set will serve me well as I continue to grow in my career and interact with colleagues and clients in the future.

8. What advice would you give to other students considering an internship here? What makes Mazars the smart choice?

Come with an open mind. At Mazars, there are countless learning opportunities, especially for students without prior audit experience.

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For internships opportunities at Mazars in Singapore, please refer to this link.