Ifrah
Khan

What does your current day involve? Take us through a “typical” day (if there is one!)

I’m having a great learning experience that’s really setting me up for my career. Every day brings new challenges, and I get to work with a variety of clients, from small businesses to large, listed companies. I dive into reviewing financial documents, conducting audit tests, and making sure everything meets the standards. It’s a fantastic way to gain exposure to different industries. Plus, interacting with client teams helps me sharpen my problem-solving skills and play a part in important business decisions.

I'm also on my path to becoming a chartered accountant. I can study for my qualification while gaining practical experience, which makes everything I learn more relevant. Being part of a supportive team of experienced auditors boosts my confidence and helps me develop my skills, ensuring I can make a real impact from day one!

How has your experience studying at Nottingham Business School helped you in your current role?

My experience at NBS has been incredibly beneficial in my role as an audit graduate at a Big Four firm, particularly in developing my soft skills and from having the opportunity to explore what I enjoy.

Nottingham Business school encouraged networking and building relationships, creating a supportive community that I still rely on today. This network has been instrumental in navigating challenges and sharing insights, making me feel more connected in my environment today.

The countless travelling opportunities I took advantage of at NBS, opened my eyes to different cultures and business practices, which has been invaluable in my current role. Working with clients from various backgrounds helps me approach audits with a broader perspective, and I’m more adaptable when faced with different ways of doing business.

Moreover, the emphasis on leadership and adaptability during my studies has prepared me for the fast-paced nature of auditing. I’ve learned to manage my time effectively and handle pressure, which is crucial when juggling multiple clients and deadlines.

What attracted you to this field of work?

I was attracted to the audit field because of my passion for problem-solving with numbers and the dynamic nature of the work. During my time at NBS, I enjoyed finance and accounting modules, where I discovered how much I enjoy analysing data and uncovering insights.

Supportive lecturers played a key role in nurturing this passion. They encouraged critical thinking and challenged us with real-world scenarios, helping me see that auditing is about providing valuable insights, not just compliance.
I also appreciate the variety in auditing; each client presents unique challenges that allow me to apply my analytical skills in different contexts.

What challenges have you faced?

While it was initially scary moving to the corporate world, it motivated me to seek feedback from colleagues and connect with more experienced team members whenever I had the chance. This allowed me to gain valuable insights and develop a deeper understanding of how to succeed.

Managing the pressure during busy seasons has been a valuable experience. The long hours and tight deadlines encouraged me to enhance my time management skills and prioritize tasks effectively. By staying organized and maintaining open communication with my team, I found new and effective ways to navigate these busy periods with confidence. I truly believe that setbacks are opportunities for growth, and they inspire me to remain focused on my goals and continue advancing in my career.

What have been the highlights and biggest challenges of your career so far?

My early audit career has been a mix of highlights and challenges. A major highlight has been the diverse client exposure, working with both small businesses and large corporations, which has enriched my industry knowledge. Extensive training programs have boosted my technical skills and confidence, and collaborating with experienced auditors has helped me build strong professional relationships.

Managing the pressure during busy seasons has been a valuable experience. The long hours and tight deadlines encouraged me to enhance my time management skills and prioritize tasks effectively. By staying organized and maintaining open communication with my team, I found new and effective ways to navigate these busy periods successfully.

What are your plans for the future?

I intend to complete my chartered accountancy qualifications while focusing on developing key skills that will support my career progression. My emphasis will be on continuous learning and growth as I navigate my professional journey.

If you had a time machine, what would you go back and tell yourself at university?

If I could travel back in time to my university days, I would tell myself to seize every opportunity and not hesitate to step outside my comfort zone. I'd remind myself that making mistakes is part of the learning process and can lead to growth. I’d also encourage myself to enjoy the journey and not worry too much about the future—focus on the present, fully embrace each experience, and trust that everything will work out in the end!