Spring 2011 issue of Horizons

Two RubinBrown Team Members Appreciate Memorable Secondment Opportunities

Kevin Bickel, CPA Staff Accountant, Assurance Services Group 12 Week Secondment - Summer 2010 Staples Rodway in Auckland, New Zealand “This program was an extremely rewarding experience in which

Jeff Sparks, CPA Manager, Assurance Services Group 4 Week Secondment Fall 2010 Collins Barrow in Toronto, Canada “One of the objectives of my secondment was to gain a deeper expertise in the area of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). In

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RubinBrown’s Kevin Bickel enjoys a kiwi orchard while working in New Zealand through the Baker Tilly Secondment Program.

Manager Jeff Sparks learned about IFRS while working in Toronto, Canada.

I was able to work, learn, and grow personally and

professionally. I was given the opportunity to senior/in-charge numerous audit engagements

the first quarter of 2011, Canadian public companies will be converting their accounting standards to IFRS. My time was spent working with companies to understand how their accounting policies will need to change and how this will impact their financial statements. Not only was I able to gain deep expertise in IFRS, but I also had the opportunity to learn best practices in the implementation process. The program was an amazing experience both personally and professionally as it gave me the opportunity to build a strong relationship with Collins Barrow, experience the Canadian business environment, and enjoy all that Toronto has to offer.”

which enabled me to learn the accounting principles and auditing procedures used in New Zealand. It also allowed me to learn the different processes used at Staples Rodway and to gain a general understanding of the local business environment. In addition, I was fortunate enough to be able to travel on numerous weekends and enjoy the beautiful countryside that New Zealand has to offer.”

“My secondment at RubinBrown has been an incredible learning, cultural and out-of-this-world weather experience,“ says Kylee with a smile about the turbulent winter the Midwest has experienced this year. “I have really enjoyed getting to know the RubinBrown team, working on a range of fascinating clients and seeing the similarities and differences of corporate culture between St. Louis and Auckland.” Donna Lee agrees stating that “the secondment program has been an amazing experience. I have gained knowledge in business advisory areas that were not available to me in New Zealand. I have also gained insight into U.S. companies, their operations, processes and some of the challenges

they face. It is also great to see the different cities around the United States and be immersed in the American culture.” Baker Tilly International states that its overall mission with the program is to ensure every secondment is a valuable and successful experience for the host firm, the home firm, and the secondee. Without a doubt, they have achieved their goal.

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