Simone tells us about her role as an Auditor with the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
My role is to support the Office in achieving its mission to provide independent assurance that public funds and resources are used in accordance with the law, managed to good effect and properly accounted for. I do this by undertaking audits on the financial statements of government departments and public bodies, evaluating existing internal controls and ensuring public funds are used for their intended purpose.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I applied for the role of Auditor because the opportunity to develop my technical expertise by studying for a Professional Accountancy Qualification while simultaneously gaining practical experience of working in audit appealed to me.
I also wanted to contribute to the effective administration of public funds and resources. Knowing that my work helps promote transparency, accountability, sound governance and value for money provides my role with a sense of purpose.
What do you value most about your job?
The work we do in the Office is valuable in ensuring transparency, accountability and responsible use of public funds across the entire Public Sector and therefore, I get a strong sense of purpose from my job.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
One of the main benefits of working within the Office is the support available for professional development. I was given the opportunity to study for the ACA qualification and was provided with support for exams, study leave and practical experience which helped me progress towards becoming a qualified accountant.
The role also offers opportunities for learning and development through a wide portfolio of financial and performance audit assignments to various government departments and public bodies. Training is offered on an ongoing basis and the existence of a strong culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing aids in creating a supportive environment.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
The role has provided me with a variety of professional and personal opportunities. I was supported in studying for the ACA Professional Accountancy Qualification and continue to receive opportunities for Continued Professional Development.
I have also been given valuable exposure to a broad range of public sector organisations. This has given me not just a well-rounded understanding of how public funds can be effectively managed and spent, but also how different organisations operate within the Public Sector.
The role has also allowed me to learn from a variety of people working within the Public Sector. I have travelled throughout Ireland to engage with different government departments and public bodies which has given me a better appreciation for the diversity of work carried out across the Public Sector.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
What has surprised me the most about the role has been the variety of work and experience it offers. Before I was offered the role, I didn’t realise the extent of the functions of the Public Sector. I could not have anticipated the number of organisations I would work with from Government Departments, Semi-States and Voluntary Bodies. Each audit engagement team I have been a part of has facilitated a new learning experience for me and each Body I have audited has led to my increased appreciation of the work of all Government Bodies and how each one delivers services to the Public.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
I appreciate the culture and diversification within the Office in particular. There is a strong sense of camaraderie, and my colleagues are approachable, supportive and willing to help where possible. I also get enjoyment from working with people across various government departments and bodies, from finance teams, to management and executive teams.
I also enjoy using my logic and analytical skills to make decisions based on facts presented to us. Being able to assist clients in understanding the importance of internal controls and processes broke down has been enjoyable.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
I would recommend a career in the public sector. As Public Servants, we are offered many opportunities for career development and subsequent career progression. There is also a strong culture of collaboration and support whereby fellow Servants are willing to share knowledge and insights, not just within individual teams or Offices, but across the entire Public Sector with the common goal of improving public administration on behalf of Irish citizens.