- Company: KPMG AG
- Position: Director
- Remit/main activity: Bank auditor
- Highest educational qualification: state-certified auditor
- Years of professional experience: 12
- Place of work: Zurich
- No. of employees at place of work: Approx. 1'500
What makes my work exciting?
Since I started at KPMG, in the midst of the financial crisis, the operating environment for financial institutions has undergone some major changes. Ongoing developments and the challenges these are presenting for clients make my job very interesting. My primary drivers are the enjoyment I get out of working together with clients and my desire to offer clients top-notch service. I find it exciting to work with talented individuals and in interdisciplinary teams to analyse and review the risks facing my clients. In my role as Group Auditor, I also appreciate the international dialogue.
Why did I enter the profession?
I seized upon this career because I’m very interested in topics such as banking, finance and accounting, and also in learning about how companies have implemented their processes and controls. The job gives me the opportunity to develop extensive technical know-how and build in-depth industry expertise. It was important for me to have an overview, to be a knowledgeable point of contact for clients, to assume a leadership role and to be able to work abroad, which I’ve then been able to do over the course of my career so far.
What challenges does my work present?
One thing I find especially challenging about my career is the dynamic environment. It’s important to stay continually informed about all developments affecting my clients. In addition, sometimes clients are faced with very complex issues that have to be dealt with accordingly. Our role as auditor also requires very good communication skills, especially when findings or issues have to be discussed with clients on a discretionary basis.
How does my work benefit the economy?
My work enhances transparency for investors, external lenders, regulators, clients and suppliers, internal stakeholders and the general public. It therefore provides a sustainable boost to the capital market and fosters trust.
What is important to me in my client relationships?
The top priority for me is to build trust with clients. An open, honest and constructive discussion coupled with regular dialogue and timely involvement in key issues provide the basis for this. This enables me to deliver added value to clients alongside our audit work.
What is especially important to my clients at the moment?
What’s especially important to my clients at the moment is talking about experiences, new issues and risks posed by the current situation. They also value open communication about new challenges that are emerging.
How has the industry changed? What are the challenges of the future?
The digitalisation of auditing is a big issue in the industry, with greater and greater use being made of data analytics. The role of auditors will continue to change dramatically in the years ahead. Data analyses and rigorous conclusions from findings are becoming more and more important. This means the industry will have to continually adjust to changing client needs and be able to evolve in line with the broader environment.