Once upon a time… there was a Senior Consultant Accountancy at BDO. But what are they up to every day and why are they so appreciated?
Read the full article below to discover the intriguing world of Accountancy at BDO.
What are some misconceptions people may have about this function or accountancy that are actually wrong?
Dirk: “The accounting field is rife with misconceptions. While some experts continue to say accounting has a dim future in the digital world of tomorrow, this does not reflect the true nature of reality.
The digital transformation and automation of time-consuming tasks have just opened new opportunities to serve as a trusted and strategic business partner to our clients.
Consequently, we can focus more on guiding our clients with a multidisciplinary approach. Entrepreneurs value our proximity and today we can provide them with both financial and non-financial expertise.”
Magali: “We also see this shift when we look at the people who are applying for a job as Senior Consultant accountancy nowadays. They mostly have a technical, analytical background but they also really want to get that personal connection and have an advisory role with clients. On top of this, they can further develop their technical expertise, people management skills or sales skills.”
What are your responsibilities as a Senior Consultant accountancy?
Nathalie: “I have a varied range of tasks with ample responsibilities and personal growth opportunities. My responsibilities include taking care of all financial matters within a company, like keeping and interpreting financial records but also calculating tax payments and returns.
In today’s world clients not only ask for accounting and tax compliance, but want to talk with me about the future of their business as well.
Finally, I also help supervise trainees and starters.
As a Senior profile, you have to be proactive and keep projects and tasks on track. Deciding what your priorities are, breaking out of your comfort zone and experience training as an ongoing effort is a must.”
What are you most proud of in your job as Senior Consultant accountancy?
Nathalie: “In September 2021 I became a member of the ITAA (Institute for Tax Advisors & Accountants) as a certified accountant and tax advisor. That’s one way of showing your motivation and innovating: to keep up with all the fiscal changes in our sector.
"It’s all about lifelong learning by following both internal and external trainings.”
Magali: “That’s also what I tell people applying for a job as accountant. BDO not only has a warm and friendly work environment, but you also get a very professional offering of trainings and tools: getting your ITAA certification, refreshing some technical aspects… There’s always a training suited to your interests and expertise.”
What makes a job as Senior Consultant accountancy so interesting?
Dirk: “As a Senior Consultant accountancy, you are the sparring partner of a wide range of businesses (small and large) from various sectors. You can work independently to a large extent, both in terms of approach and content. You can also focus on a particular niche, such as sustainability reporting, cost price calculation, international accounting standards, etc..
"In short, it’s an exciting position with lots of social contacts where your opinion when making business decisions is valued and respected.”
Nathalie: “I completely agree! The fact that I get to talk with clients from so many different businesses, being their first person of contact and building expertise in various sectors is very satisfying.”
And finally, can you describe the added value of a Senior Consultant accountancy for businesses?
Dirk: “Having a good understanding of finances is crucial for companies to make the right (strategic) decisions and remain competitive. But it is also a complex matter, which
SMEs, for example, do not always have the expertise for. With analyses, forecasts and insights, a Senior Consultant accountancy can help steer companies in the right direction and enable clients to turn their vision into growth. By asking the right questions, you can add value.”
Nathalie: “I am always 100% committed to my clients. I try to make a difference with clear and timely communication and differentiating on customer service.”
Intrigued by being a Senior consultant in accountancy?
Now that you’ve found out that a job as Senior Consultant in Accountancy is way more than just preparing financial statements and collecting invoices:
Why don’t become one yourself?
Check out our open positions in an office near you!