To ask for your help in you work in big 4?

[Prayingtocheesus]

I have unfortunately failed some exams on my accountancy training contract (professional level) and have to make a case in order to stay.

Would anyone be able to advise me on how to do this/provide an insight please? A lot rides on it and I obviously don’t want to lose my job. I have the backing of senior people, good feedback and high utilisation as well as a sort-of case from the perspective of extenuating circumstances.

Would hugely appreciate any help as I am seriously panicking. I am also working long hours right now and trying to revise for the next exam sitting (which I am self funding, whether or not I have a job to go back to) - it’s hard!

Sorry, can’t advise you on this as I trained via top 10 who as I understand, are far more supportive. Who gets the last say, surely senior management?

What do you ultimately want to do career wise, accountancy is a big world!

Thanks! Yes that’s what I’m hoping, it is senior management who decide but my case goes before an independent panel and I want it to be watertight. Im intimidated as I’ve never done this before (obviously) and would like guidance on how to present it.

What is the sort of case for extenuating circumstances? And how much did you miss the pass mark by? How far into your training contract are you?

I trained with a big four firm, and missed a couple of the professional stage exams, but support of a senior partner (who failed his audit paper many moons ago!) got me through.

To make your case, I’d try to give examples of what you bring to the firm, that you can support through evidence/feedback. Have you built good relationships with certain clients that you can use in your favour? What is there that you bring to your clients/jobs that would be hard to replace?

Have any of your intake, or the year ahead of you been in this position and stayed? If so, talk to them and find out how they made their case.

As a final thought, I know this is scary, but it is also a good chance to think about alternatives to the big four, and it could be that there is a better fit for you with another company, there are plenty of opportunities for trainee accountants, and if the big four wanted you, then other firms will too, even with the odd exam blip.

Best of luck!

Truth is, if they like you and have work, they will keep you. Otherwise they will get rid.

be honest, show how it won't happen again.