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From Joining to Leading — David's Journey at BDO

At BDO, career growth is about building real expertise and making an impact. Since joining over five years ago, David has advanced from audit senior to Senior Manager in the International Institute of Donor Assurance (IIDA), managing teams primarily across Iraq, Germany and Africa. His journey highlights the opportunities for growth and meaningful work that BDO provides.

BDO UK

Q: Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your current role at BDO?

David: "I'm David, and I've been at BDO for just over five years now. I'm a Senior Manager in the International Institute of Donor Assurance (IIDA). In my current role, I manage teams both in the UK and abroad, including Iraq and Germany. I work mainly with a large client called GIZ, the main development agency in Germany. My role is about managing people, delivering training, and ensuring quality reports for our clients."

 

Q: What does your day-to-day look like as a Senior Manager?

David: "Day to day, I manage people in Germany and Iraq, and work with consultants in Germany. Reviewing the work of staff who have undertaken the work and ensuring smooth delivery for our clients. An additional part of my role is conducting training sessions internally to London staff members and to the staff we work with in Iraq, where I conducted training a year ago.  I'm planning to go back soon to continue the progress."

Q: How did your career journey at BDO begin?

David: "I joined in January 2020, excited to work in the international development sector. I had plans to travel to places like Bangladesh, but the pandemic shifted that to my living room for 18 months. Despite the challenges, I have still travelled to Israel, Palestine, Ghana, Iraq, and other parts of the Middle East and Africa. As I progressed, I have taken on more responsibilities, managing people and overseeing projects across regions."

Q: What makes the culture at BDO stand out to you?

David: "What I really appreciate is how approachable everyone is, from graduates to partners. We often go for lunch together, and there’s a real sense of community. It’s rare to find such a welcoming environment across all levels."

BDO UK

Q: How has BDO supported your professional development?

David: "When I joined BDO, I wasn't very confident in public speaking. Thankfully, BDO offers a lot of training, both online and in person. I took part in multiple courses that helped me build confidence. Those skills have been crucial—not just for delivering internal training but even for personal moments like giving a best man speech at my brother's wedding. That was a big milestone for me."

 

Q: What would you say to someone considering a career at BDO?

David: "BDO is unique in its ability to offer both professional growth and community impact. The international development work I do is incredibly fulfilling, and the culture here is genuinely incredibly supportive. If you want a career that lets you grow and give back, BDO is the place to be."

David's career at BDO shows how opportunity and support can drive real progress. His leadership role with GIZ and international teams is a testament to our focus on meaningful impact. Here, success is measured not just by career advancement, but by the difference you create in the communities we serve and the projects you lead.

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