Reflecting on a year in consulting at EY

In brief

• Moving from a legal firm into a consulting firm opened new opportunities for growth and learning.
• EY’s collaborative culture and structured support made the transition seamless.
• Technology, AI and deep client focus shaped a year of meaningful development.

A year ago, I stepped into EY after spending my entire career in the law firm environment. Having worked at several large law firms in South Africa, the consulting world felt both familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. While there were shared elements such as billable hours, fees and targets, joining an audit firm brought with it a sense of stepping into new territory. I found myself curious about what integrating into consulting firms would look like. 

Would the environment feel similar to a law firm or fundamentally different, and where would I fit in that landscape? Even though I understood the practice area I was joining, beginning something new inevitably brings questions. I wondered whether I would adapt to the culture, whether I would be supported through the transition, and how my new colleagues would respond to my ideas and leadership style. Reflecting on the past year, I can genuinely say the experience has been remarkable.

From the start, the care invested in my induction process stood out. Every element felt thoughtful and structured, making the joining experience seamless rather than overwhelming. What impressed me most was the formal support framework, extending far beyond the initial months and continuing throughout the year.

EY’s culture is deeply collaborative. There is always someone willing to help, whether locally or globally. This willingness and the consistent can‑do attitude are embedded across the firm. Equally important is the strong focus on people‑centric initiatives, including well‑being. These are not aspirational ideas; they are embedded into daily work and team structures.

I have been fortunate to work with a team that is welcoming, supportive and committed to excellence. Getting to know my colleagues has been a privilege, and the relationships built have contributed significantly to my sense of belonging and fulfillment. I derive a great deal of joy from working with individuals who are hardworking, dedicated and deeply committed to delivering exceptional work.

From a practice perspective, one of the defining characteristics of EY is the emphasis on deeply understanding clients, their challenges and their business contexts. The firm prioritizes long term partnerships over transactional relationships, ensuring that value is added across multiple aspects of a client’s journey. Systems, processes and detailed documentation support informed, efficient and strategic decision making.

Technology and AI have also shaped my first year. EY continues to invest significantly in its own AI models and digital tools. These innovations are used responsibly across service lines to create efficiencies and improve the way teams work. Within our practice, technology plays a key role in investigations, forensic work and regulatory compliance, helping clients navigate increasingly complex environments.

After a year at EY, the experience has exceeded my expectations both professionally and personally. The combination of collaborative culture, people focus, client commitment and leading technology creates an environment where meaningful work and growth are encouraged. I am excited for what lies ahead and grateful to be part of a firm that continues to invest in its people, its clients and its future.

In summary

After a year at EY, the experience has exceeded my expectations both professionally and personally. The combination of collaborative culture, people focus, client commitment and leading technology creates an environment where meaningful work and growth are encouraged. I am excited for what lies ahead and grateful to be part of a firm that continues to invest in its people, its clients and its future.