Akram | Assurance, Advisory & Tax Firm

Vault’s Verdict

Akram is looking for adaptable quick-learners to join its team. The firm offers internships to students, who can gain valuable work experience while still being able to focus on their schoolwork. For its full-time professionals, Akram provides many career development opportunities, including industry-specific CPE events, internal trainings, webinars, learning platforms, skill development, and mentorship programs.

Although work hours during the busy season can be longer than the rest of the year, Akram provides a healthy work/life balance to its staff. It offers flexible work arrangements and a supportive work culture, and makes it easy to use your PTO outside of busy season. The firm’s benefits package is competitive, and there are often healthy snacks at the office. DEI is a focus at the firm, as Akram hires diversely with respect to gender, race and ethnicity, and LGBTQ+ individuals. As for the firm’s business outlook, the leadership team is said to be strong, and the firm’s outlook is very positive.

EMPLOYEE REVIEWS

Hiring Process

“The interview process consisted of two interviews. One through Microsoft Teams and one in person. The entire interviewing process took place over a two-week period, and then I began the job about two weeks after I received an offer letter.”
“Firm’s hiring process is very strong. HR conducts many interviews and tests before hiring. And the callback process is very fast. It’s a very competitive process.”

“The ideal candidate the firm is seeking is a quick learner and adaptable person.”

“HR people are kind and helpful and very responsive. Offer is usually made within a day of the interview.”

Interview Questions

“USGAAP on contingencies and commitments. Questions related to audit risk. Questions on auditing standards.”

“Asked about your approach towards learning new things and how adaptive you are in absorbing the new and unique patterns of this industry. Plus, there were some aptitude testing questions.”

“The interview didn't have ‘case questions’ per se. I felt like they were trying to get to know me and gauge my fit.”

Internship Experience

“The best part of the internship was that I was able to have flexible hours and only was required to work for four to six hours a day so that I was able to still focus on my schoolwork. The only downside of the internship was that it was 100 percent in office.”

Career Development

“Our firm has provided access to many development resources, webinars, and learning platforms, and imparts training that helps to gain new skills and stay updated with the industry trend. The best part is our firm also provides opportunities for newbies to this industry, training and helping them achieve success in their careers. Con (I would prefer calling this a con rather than a worst aspect): In very rare cases it may turn out to be information overload.”

“The firm has a policy to give initial training when an employe is on board. These trainings are conducted by the managing and quality control partner. Also, the firm invests in education and training for the career development of the employees.”

“The firm has great training opportunities. It hosts industry-specific CPE events, internal trainings, and informal training.”

“Best aspects regarding the career development opportunities are training programs, skill development, and mentorship programs.”

Quality of Life

“Busy season hours are longer, of course, but not particularly overwhelming, as we average only 55 hours at most. Minimal opportunities to work remotely, but considering the convenient office location, it isn’t a big deal. It isn’t difficult to use PTO outside of busy season, which is another plus. Overall, it is great.”

“Offering a flexible schedule and weighing in each individual’s personal situation are crucial positive aspects.”

“Best aspects regarding the quality of life are: flexible work arrangements, a supportive work culture, and the recognition and rewards.”

“The firm’s policies emphasize a work and personal life balance. Work the required hours and then enjoy your life.”

Salary and Benefits

“SIMPLE IRA plan with decent firm match for retirement, free food and drinks, and casual dress policy. The vacation time isn't bad. The firm is considering improving the retirement account contribution, and offering an employer sponsored HSA account, which would be a great improvement.”

Wellness Efforts

“The employer-sponsored lunches are often healthy (with good food from places like Panera and Jersey Mike's), which is much preferred over greasy foods like pizza.”

Diversity, Philanthropy, and Green Initiatives

“I think that ‘actions speak louder than words,’ and it is apparent that the firm hires diversely with respect to gender, race and ethnicity, LGBTQ+, etc. The firm participates in various philanthropic activities and donates to charities. I am not aware of specific, green-focused practices at the firm.”

Business Outlook

“Positive outlook.”

“Quality control policies on auditing and the quality of services are very professional.”

“Founder,Partners,and Senior Manager has amazing leadership skills.”

“Firm’s business outlook is very strong.”