Akram Assurance, Advisory & Tax Firm

Vault’s Verdict

Akram is looking for motivated, conscientious candidates who are eager to learn and fit into the firm’s culture. Akram’s internship program provides students with hands-on experience, access to senior staff and managers, and valuable mentorship. For its full-time staff, Akram provides many career growth opportunities, including regular training sessions, mentorship programs, clear paths for advancement, and encouragement to pursue further education and certifications.

Although busy season hours can be demanding, they’re not unrealistic, and outside of that time a healthy work/life balance can be easily achieved. The firm offers flexible schedules and a good PTO policy. Meanwhile, salaries, perks, and benefits are aligned with industry standards, and wellness offerings include access to counseling services, on-site fitness classes, discounts to local gyms, meditation and stress-relief workshops, and nutrition education sessions.

Akram is focused on creating an inclusive culture, and it has a diverse staff, considering its location. Akram is also focused on philanthropic activities and giving back. It aims to reduce its carbon footprint, has implemented eco-friendly practices, supports local charities, and offers volunteer time off for employees. As

for Akram’s business outlook, the firm is well-positioned in the market, its leadership team is strong, and its employee morale is high.

EMPLOYEE REVIEWS

Hiring Process

“The interview process is well-organized, typically consisting of multiple rounds, including technical assessments, behavioral interviews, and discussions with senior management. Candidates are clearly informed about the steps involved, timelines, and what is expected at each stage.”

“I think our interview process is professional, effective, and prompt. I think the ideal candidate would be a good culture fit, which is important.”

“This firm is looking for self-motivated and conscientious candidates.” “Ideal candidate for the firm is one who is eager to learn and motivated.”

Interview Questions

“Can you explain the difference between cash accounting and accrual accounting? How do you ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial statements?

“What accounting software are you familiar with, and how have you used it in your previous roles?”

“Tell us about a time when you faced a challenging situation at work. How did you handle it? What motivates you to succeed, and how do you stay focused under pressure? How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple deadlines?
Describe a time when you identified a financial discrepancy. How did you handle it?”

“We ask about the candidates’ background, professional skill sets, and interests.”

Internship Experience

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was the opportunity to apply what I had learned in a real-world setting. Being able to work alongside experienced professionals in my field allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I gained hands-on experience with industry tools and processes, which greatly improved my skills and knowledge. Additionally, the mentorship I received was invaluable. My supervisor provided regular feedback, and I was able to take on increasing levels of responsibility, which helped me build confidence and better understand my career goals. The collaborative environment also made it easy to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and feel part of a team.”

“Best thing was the training; worse thing is that there is some stress and pressure.”

“The internship provided me with invaluable hands-on experience in accounting and finance, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.”

“The best is that got exposure to a learning environment and access to seniors.”

Career Development

“The firm offers well-structured training sessions and workshops that keep employees updated with the latest industry standards and trends. The demanding nature of the work, especially during busy periods, can sometimes hinder participation in career development initiatives.”

“Effective training programs with a streamlined approach for experienced individuals, providing clear guidance and efficient training, which ultimately fosters enhanced understanding and professional development.”

“Easy to transfer to different areas, but limited opportunities in the PE/VC space at the moment. The firm is aiming to change this as we grow, so I hope that improves. Promotional opportunities exist, though I think they may be dependent on firm growth, which has historically been rapid, so I am hopeful there, too. But it remains to be seen if promotional opportunities will present themselves for someone in a mid-level position like me. Hopefully, as I gain experience and the firm grows, those opportunities will become available. The owner/management is involved in skill growth, so it is good to get helpful feedback from them. I think they genuinely care.”

“The firm offers excellent opportunities for career growth, with regular training sessions, mentorship programs, and clear paths for advancement. The leadership is supportive of employees pursuing further education and certifications, which helps in skill development.”

Quality of Life

“The firm offers a great work/life balance, with flexible hours and the option to work remotely. The supportive work culture and emphasis on employee well-being make it a pleasant and comfortable place to work.”

“The firm fosters a positive and collaborative culture, which makes the workplace enjoyable and engaging. There is some level of flexibility in work hours or remote work options, which helps in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.”

“Currently, the firm has a good PTO package, as it is reasonable for new staff employees, and rewards loyalty to the firm. As a second-year senior, I have more time off than last year. Unfortunately, when I started, the firm holidays were lower than average outside of the industry (only holidays that the NYSE recognizes). This has been expanded in the current year, and I look forward to having more time off. Occasionally, I have to take work calls me when I take time off, but I honestly don't mind taking work calls then because of good quality of life.”

“Good vacation policy, easy to request time off. Great work/life balance outside of busy season. Busy season hours are, of course, demanding but not unrealistic.”

Salary and Benefits

“Considering the size of firm, overall compensation is good, and 401(k) benefits are now being offered with a firm match. Free meals during busy season, too. Coworkers bring in food to share regularly.”

“The firm offers a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, generous paid time off, and meal allowances. The perks, like wellness programs and performance-based bonuses, add extra value to the overall compensation.”

“The firm offers a salary package that aligns well with industry standards, ensuring fair compensation for the work performed. The criteria and timelines for salary increments and promotions could be more transparent and consistent.”

“Considering the number of hours we work and the intensity and workload, the
salary could be higher.”

Wellness Efforts

“Our firm offers a portion of the monthly subscription paid to any fitness center. Also, we have been offered 50 percent of the registration fee paid for the fitness centers.”

“Focuses on nutrition education and exercise programs. I find this to be particularly helpful, and they offered discounted membership to the YMCA.”

“Firm has recently provided a gym policy, according to which the firm will pay the gym fee for employees for promoting health and fitness.”

“The firm has several wellness initiatives to support employee well-being, including access to counseling services through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), on-site fitness classes, and discounts to local gyms. They also offer meditation and stress-relief workshops, along with periodic nutrition education sessions. The company demonstrates strong support for wellness by actively promoting these programs and encouraging employees to participate. Leadership frequently communicates the importance of maintaining a healthy work/life balance, and the firm allocates resources to ensure the programs are accessible and effective. There’s also a dedicated wellness committee to gather feedback and improve initiatives."

Community Engagement

“We have a food drive and clothing drives. We recycle the products used when possible. It appears that we hire a diverse workforce considering the available talent in this area. The firm promotes from within and takes its promotions for all seriously. It seems like management is interested in keeping me here and I am in the LGBTQ+ space.”

“Our firm has been an equal opportunity provider for everyone, irrespective of their race, religion, etc. Our founder, Mr. Muhammad strongly believes only in talent and hard work. Our firm emphasizes on recruiting a greater number of female employees.”

“There are employee resource groups and mentorship programs that support underrepresented communities. Additionally, the company has made significant strides in sustainability, with a focus on reducing its carbon footprint and implementing eco-friendly practices. The firm is also deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting local charities and offering volunteer time off for employees.”

“Good diversity across all categories. I am a member of LGBTQ+ and feel included.”

Business Outlook

“The firm has established a solid reputation in the industry, supported by a loyal client base and a strong track record of delivering high-quality services. The leadership's focus on adopting new technologies and staying ahead of market trends positions the firm well against competitors. A highly skilled and motivated workforce drives the firm's success, contributing to its ability to meet and exceed client expectations.”

“The firm is well positioned in the industry, and the leadership is focused on investment to make the firm stronger and more successful for the long run.”

“Clients are satisfied to a great extent.”

“The firm's business outlook is very strong, and employee morale is also high.”