Innovate Assurance: shaping the future of talent in Assurance

Milja and Rebecca, two previous participants of Innovative Assurance share its transformative impact on their career development.

At Innovate Assurance, participants dive into real-world challenges, transforming their ideas into actionable solutions that can make a significant impact. With a focus on collaboration and ingenuity, this initiative showcases the power of teamwork and diverse perspectives in fostering innovation, significantly impacting participants’ career development journeys.

Join us as we explore the inspiring journeys of our participants, who have turned their curiosity into groundbreaking solutions, and discover how Innovate Assurance is shaping the future of our Assurance practice in a fun and engaging way!

Milja

Looking back, it feels a bit surreal to now be leading Season 3 of Innovate EY, after having been a participant in both Season 1 and Season 2. What started as just a curiosity turned into one of the most rewarding experiences of my career so far.

In Season 1, I worked with my team to improve the automation of the bank confirmation process. In Season 2, I focused on client insight and audit data visualization, which is a topic that really resonated with many. What’s been truly amazing is seeing how these ideas haven’t just stayed as concepts on paper. Some have been picked up for further development at the Nordic level, and others even made their way into the global pipeline. That’s when I realized: this program really matters.

One of the biggest takeaways has been learning how to use tools like the Lean Canvas method. It taught me how to think through ideas quickly and clearly —, something that’s incredibly useful in a working world where change is the only constant. Innovate EY didn’t just teach innovation; it helped me develop a mindset I now use every day.

And beyond the frameworks and workshops, there was something even more valuable: the people. I got to connect with amazing colleagues from across the Nordics, and the final week together, filled with collaboration, coaching, and even some unforgettable dinners, created memories and relationships that have lasted far beyond the program. We also learned how to pitch, communicate, and sell our ideas. Those presentation and storytelling skills have come in handy even in my current role.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was the importance of teamwork. Working with others really opened my eyes to how different perspectives can lead to better solutions. I also learned a lot about project management — how to keep everything organized and on track. Plus, I had the chance to practice my presentation skills, which was a bit nerve-wracking but ultimately rewarding. Overall, it was a fantastic learning experience!

Rebecca

Being part of the experience made me realize how much I enjoy collaborating with diverse teams. It highlighted the importance of different viewpoints and how they can lead to innovative solutions.