Secondment Spotlight:
An Auditor's Journey to the Gold Coast

Whitley Penn is proud to offer a unique benefit that allows our team members to travel and work abroad for a Secondment opportunity. The secondment program temporarily assigns employees to different positions at HLB^* firms, usually internationally, while they remain employed by Whitley Penn. It’s a fantastic way for our team to gain new skills and experience diverse work environments.

Emma Parmer, an Audit Senior Associate in our Fort Worth office, spent approximately three months on secondment in Brisbane, Australia, also known as the “Gold Coast”. Read about her secondment experiences and insights below.

How different is the work culture in Gold Coast compared to your home office?

Compared to the work culture back home, everything feels a bit more relaxed here. The standard workday is 7.5 hours, and both work and time off are taken seriously. There are several public holidays that are widely observed, and many companies offer extended breaks around Christmas, which I think is wonderful. While I’m not sure if this is the norm throughout all of Australia, we have “Casual Fridays,” allowing us to wear shorts to work, which adds a fun touch.

In terms of auditing, the work is quite similar, although adapting to different accounting standards has been a bit of a learning curve. Like at Whitley Penn, the atmosphere here is very friendly, with a strong emphasis on team bonding outside of work.

Did you work on any exciting projects during your secondment that are unique to Gold Coast?

The firm I worked for had several council clients, similar to city or county governments. This provided me with valuable insights into how government functions in Australia, which I found fascinating. Additionally, the firm serves clients across Queensland and New South Wales, allowing me to travel extensively for work. It was a fantastic opportunity to explore parts of Australia that many people may never see and to connect with locals from diverse backgrounds.

Have you discovered any favorite spots in Gold Coast?

Gold Coast is known for its stunning beaches, and it certainly lives up to that reputation. I’ve enjoyed several days soaking up the sun, with plenty of restaurants and cafes right by the shoreline for relaxation. Some of the other fantastic places I’ve explored in Gold Coast include Surfer’s Paradise, Movie World, and the bustling shopping centers. The shopping culture here is quite different; with online shopping and delivery services not as prevalent, the malls are always lively and packed with shoppers. Additionally, there are countless dining options, many featuring delightful outdoor and patio seating, which adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

How do you think this secondment experience will impact your career moving forward?

Throughout this secondment, the most important lesson I’ve learned is the value of flexibility and adaptability. While the core aspects of the work remain similar to what I’ve experienced before, I’ve had to quickly familiarize myself with different accounting standards and navigate new audit software. This has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace the learning curve.

Moreover, the client schedules are frequently adjusted, which has required me to be agile and responsive to shifting priorities. I’ve learned to manage my time effectively and prioritize tasks, ensuring that I meet deadlines even when plans change unexpectedly. This experience has not only enhanced my technical skills but also strengthened my ability to collaborate with colleagues and clients in a dynamic environment.

Overall, this secondment has been invaluable in developing my resilience and problem-solving skills, preparing me for future challenges in my career.