Job Responsibilities
1) Project management - make sure the client is happy!
2) Scope out work needed to be done with client.
3) Evaluate current risks, objectives, controls, policies and
procedures.
4) Research and review "best practices" by other companies.
5) Develop test plans and test controls and identify results and
areas needed for remediation.
6) Work with the client to develop remediation plan and test
those as appropriate.
7) Review any new pronouncements and communicate with PCAOB,
SEC, and other governmental/accounting agencies.
8) Assist client in developing continuing/on-going methods to
track changes in internal control environment and how best to
monitor those changes and communicate with process owners.
Work with other 3rd party companies (e.g.,
PricewaterhouseCoopers) in sharing test plans, results, and
remediation items.
9) List contacts to assist owner in identifying other potential
clients.
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Job Requirements
Tulane was a great school that assisted me in preparing me for
my current career challenges. The program was rigorous...the
professors challenged the students. Students at Tulane were
competitive with themselves in performing their best, but not at
the expense of others...no backstabbing!
Popular classes were sometimes a little tough to get, and
certain areas of study had many more classes available (e.g.,
Finance rather than Marketing). Grading was fair, for the most
part. A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C. 4.0 scale.
The first year workload was much more intense and quite
rigorous. Second year was much easier.
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Uppers
1) Helping the client! You're the "hero"
2) To a certain extent, make your own hours/flexibility
3) High pay, low stress
4) Work with smart capable people...client service feels more like a team effort
rather than a set hierarchy with ego-maniacs at the top wanting to hold onto
control...we share ideas.
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Downers
1) Less "creative" industry/job type (i.e., were not making
movies or new outfits here).
2) Always have to be mindful of getting the next
client/job...don't have the "security" of a permanent salaried
position.
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Lifestyle
Work hours for me are relatively flexible...start between 8:00 am and 10:00 am
and work until 5pm to 8pm. Some times of overtime but in general 8 hour days.
Not much business travel now, but I expect this to increase as firm continues to
grow and open new offices and get new clients.
Very social...happy hours, wining and dining the clients. Owner also often gets
consultants together for drinks and/or dinner. Dress code is business, although
could vary based on the client (e.g., we would dress down for entertainment
client with business casual dress code).
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Compensation
Compensation is based on hours worked. Only get paid for work
done, so hourly rather than salary position. My hourly rate is
$100 per hour. Hourly rates are negotiated for each job,
depending on client needs, your experience/expertise. No
benefits. Bonus for bringing in new clients (profit sharing).
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Advice to Jobseekers
Maintain contacts with everyone (former co-workers, bosses,
friends, school-mates, etc.). NETWORK! Be client-service
focused...they pay your bills and they must be happy - always
look for ways to add value to their business.
As far as outlook, I would think that as companies continue to
cut staff, special projects that come up will require companies
hire consultants. Bottom line (no pun intended), outlook is
good.
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