The world of risk advisory and assurance is ever-evolving, and the financial services sector remains a vital aspect of this dynamic field. For students eager to dive into the intricacies of auditing, data risk assessment, and technology governance, a new internship opportunity has emerged at JHB Illovo.
This internship offers university students the chance to gain practical exposure to the world of financial services advisory, focusing on risk management, internal audits, and IT systems.
Overview of the Internship
The Financial Services Advisory Intern position is designed for university graduates or those in their final year of study. It offers students valuable hands-on experience, where they will shadow seasoned professionals and participate in live engagements. Through structured job shadowing, interns will not only gain practical knowledge but will also be exposed to the complexities of auditing and risk management within the financial services industry.
Key Learning Areas
Interns will have a comprehensive learning experience that includes several key areas of exposure:
- Audit Methodologies and Risk-Based Approaches: Interns will be introduced to various audit methodologies and the principles of risk-based approaches. This is crucial for understanding how financial institutions assess and mitigate risk within their operations.
- Understanding IT General Controls (ITGCs): One of the core elements of this internship is gaining an understanding of IT general controls and application controls. These are essential in ensuring that financial services organizations have secure and reliable IT systems in place.
- Internal Audit Procedures: Interns will observe and assist in internal audit procedures. They will learn how control testing is performed to ensure that organizations comply with relevant regulations and maintain accurate financial reporting.
- Data Risk Assessment and Analytics: The internship includes exposure to data risk assessment, where students will gain a basic understanding of how financial services organizations analyze and mitigate risks related to data breaches, loss, or inaccuracies.
- Hands-On Experience with Audit Tools: Interns will have the opportunity to use audit tools and working papers, equipping them with the practical skills necessary for a future career in auditing or financial advisory.
- Client Engagement and Collaboration: Observing client engagement processes and team collaboration is another valuable part of the internship. Interns will see firsthand how financial advisory firms manage client relationships and execute financial audits in real-time.
Internship Responsibilities
Throughout the internship, students will be expected to assist with various tasks under the guidance of experienced professionals. These include:
- Shadowing Professionals: Interns will observe experienced professionals as they work on live engagements, giving them insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of risk advisory and assurance roles.
- Participating in Training Sessions and Workshops: Interns will be involved in several training sessions and workshops to develop their technical skills and understanding of the financial services sector.
- Research and Documentation: Interns will assist with research, documentation, and basic execution of tasks related to audits and risk assessments.
- Engagement with Teams: Attendance at team meetings and internal knowledge-sharing sessions will allow interns to engage with professionals in an open, collaborative setting.
- Observing Audit Processes: Interns will observe the full cycle of audit processes, including planning, fieldwork, and reporting, which will enhance their practical understanding of the audit and risk advisory world.
Qualification and Skills Required
To be considered for this internship, candidates must meet specific academic and skill-based requirements:
Qualifications:
- A university graduate or a student in their final year of study in one of the following fields: Information Systems, Informatics, Information Technology, Actuarial Science, Computer/Data Science, Analytics, Mathematical Sciences, Statistics, Applied/Financial Mathematics, Quantitative Risk Management, or Applied Statistics.
- Candidates with the intention to pursue a professional qualification (such as CFA, FRM, PRM, FIA, or FASSA) will be at an advantage.
Skills:
- Computer Literacy: A strong understanding of Office 360 tools is necessary for the successful completion of tasks in the internship.
- Programming Languages: Familiarity with programming languages like C#, Python, R, or SAS will be advantageous.
- Internal Audit Experience: Any experience or knowledge in internal auditing is a bonus, though not mandatory.
Work Environment and Expectations
The internship is based in JHB Illovo, a bustling business hub in Johannesburg, providing an ideal environment for professional growth. Interns will be expected to participate in a short-term contract and will receive market-related remuneration. The experience gained during this internship will be invaluable for anyone looking to pursue a career in risk advisory, internal auditing, or financial services.
Why Apply for the Internship?
This internship presents a fantastic opportunity for university students to break into the world of financial services advisory. Not only does it provide practical, hands-on experience, but it also allows interns to network with professionals in the industry, learn from real-life case studies, and develop critical skills in data risk assessment, audit methodologies, and technology governance.
By the end of the internship, students will be well-equipped with the knowledge and experience required to pursue a career in risk management, financial auditing, or technology governance, with many interns going on to secure full-time positions in the field.
The Financial Services Advisory Intern position at JHB Illovo is an exceptional opportunity for university students aiming to make a mark in the financial services industry. With exposure to key areas such as auditing, data risk assessment, and IT governance, this internship offers the perfect stepping stone for anyone looking to enter the exciting world of financial services advisory.
For students eager to gain practical experience and develop their professional skills, this internship provides the perfect foundation to build a rewarding career in risk advisory and financial services.
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