Trainee Story Elaine Connolly

Elaine began her journey with DBASS to become a Chartered Accountant in October 2021.

I began my career in accounting in 2019 after being accepted into the Accounting Technician Ireland apprenticeship programme and following on from this, decided to further my studies and train as a Chartered Accountant.  In the second year of my Chartered Accountancy training having moved to Meath from Cork, I joined DBASS as a trainee Chartered Accountant.

The interview process consisted of a telephone interview followed by a one to one interview with a partner and a follow-up interview with the audit manager. After every step of the interview process I received an update and I felt that I was kept very well informed throughout the process.

After I had accepted the job at DBASS, I was given information on what to expect on my first day and in the weeks and months to come, which I found very useful.   I was also assigned a “work-buddy” who became my first point of contact and someone to offer guidance as I settled into my new role. In our weekly meetings I learned the “DBASS way” of doing things, and was given the chance to get to know more about the company and its culture, in a comfortable and informal setting.

From my very first day, I was told to ask questions and was reminded that I was in the firm to learn. This really put me at ease, and the longer I have been working at DBASS, the more I realise how true that statement is. I can honestly say that I feel very comfortable asking questions, not just of other trainees but of senior accountants, managers and even the partners.

DBASS provided extensive training on the numerous IT systems in use within the firm and there was always someone on hand to discuss any issues I encountered. Producing paperless accounts was a bit of a learning curve for me, but all of the support I needed was available, all I had to do was ask. I am delighted to say that over time I have noted that the work I complete in DBASS day to day directly correlates with my course modules and this has really assisted the learning process for me.

I’m currently working as part of the Audit team and as part of my day to day duties liaise directly with clients, produce audited financial statements and calculate their tax. No two days are the same here at DBASS and with the wide variety of clients I am exposed to I am learning so much from every aspect of my work.

I am very grateful for all the support I have received to date and I am really looking forward to the next few years of my training and to becoming an ACA Chartered Accountant.