A Day in the Life of Auckland Audit intern Jocelyn Wang
Hi, my name is Jocelyn Wang and I started as a graduate on the Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Auckland insolvency team on 19 February 2024.
In the insolvency service line, each case presents new challenges. The role is collaborative and hands-on, offering exposure to various industries and the opportunity to work closely with legal teams, clients and external advisors. This dynamic environment fosters continuous learning and professional growth, making it appealing to those who are eager to continuously develop their skills and knowledge. Here is a day in my life as an insolvency grad!
6.30am: My alarm goes off and I start my day with a morning coffee, which energises me for the busy schedule ahead. After a quick breakfast, I prepare for the day.
7.20am: I catch the bus to work, taking the time to enjoy some music and go through some news to wake my brain. By 8.20am, I’m in the office, filling up my bottle with water and setting up my workspace.
8.30am: I start the day by diving into my to-do list. Usually, I’ll go through it every morning and arrange my time based on the priority of the tasks. Each Monday, our insolvency team creates a list of statutory reports to be released to the public and the deadlines for when each report needs to be drafted. This helps with our task prioritisation.
10.00am: I take a quick break to grab a coffee with some team members, which is also a great chance to get some fresh air. Once back in the office, I dive into my tasks, drafting several standard letters for a new liquidation client and arranging for them to be issued through the usual channels. Time management and attention to detail are crucial in this role, and I’m constantly honing both skills to stay on top of these responsibilities.
11.00am: The rest of the morning is spent on updating the checklist in our core Insolvency Operations System. I create detailed file notes and upload supporting documents into the system to ensure all tasks are completed accurately and documented properly. This helps maintain clear records and keeps everything organised for future reference.
12.30pm: Lunch is a great opportunity to network with colleagues from other departments. I join a few co-workers for a quick bite at a nearby café. We talk about different career paths within the firm and share insights on recent projects and jobs.
1.30pm: In the afternoon, I talk with a director to discuss progress on a client matter, seeking further direction and reviewing any updates that might affect our strategy. Insolvency work is highly collaborative, and I truly value the insights my team members offer, drawing from their experience to shape my approach. Their perspectives helps graduates tackle each case more effectively.
3.30pm: I review my inbox and respond to creditor inquiries. Throughout the afternoon, I also receive calls from creditors with questions about the liquidation or receivership process. I address each query individually and follow up on any unfinished tasks, such as asset realisation or gathering additional information. Since every insolvency case is unique, I consult with managers whenever I’m unsure about something. There's always something to learn, and I feel fully supported by both my colleagues and mentors, which makes navigating these complexities easier.
5.00pm: The day winds down, and I review my to-do list for tomorrow. Before heading home, I take advantage of the firm's downtown location and meet some friends for a walk. It’s a nice way to relax after a productive day at the office.