Welcome back to our “A Day in the Life” blog series, where we spotlight what it’s like to work within each of our client-facing service lines—Small Business Advisory (SBA), Tax, Assurance, and Advisory & Consulting. In this edition, we’re diving into the world of Bonadio Assurance to give you an inside look at the people, purpose, and passion that drive this dynamic team.
At The Bonadio Group (TBG), our Assurance professionals bring their unique expertise to a wide range of clients and industries. From conducting financial statement audits to enhancing audit quality through strategic initiatives, our team thrives on collaboration, continuous learning, and problem-solving. Let’s explore what a day in the life looks like for someone in the Assurance Service Line.
A Typical Day
Every day in Assurance can look a little different—but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. As Jennifer Wood, our Assurance Service Line Leader, puts it: “No two days are exactly the same in our Service Line, which keeps the work dynamic and engaging. A typical day involves a mix of client interactions, team collaboration, and strategic oversight.”
While each team member’s experience varies, here are some common activities that fill a typical day in Assurance here at TBG:
- Conducting financial statement audits, reviews, and other attestation services
- Analyzing financial data to ensure accuracy and completeness
- Testing internal controls to evaluate the effectiveness of a client’s financial processes
- Assessing risk across various areas of the business
- Ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements
- Researching complex accounting topics to provide accurate and insightful guidance
In addition to client work, team members often participate in coaching, collaboration, and firm-wide initiatives designed to enhance audit efficiency and promote continuous learning. For Assurance Manager, Samuel Zadrozny, it’s the ongoing coaching and learning that makes the biggest impact in his daily routine. “Every day has an opportunity to be so different from the day prior! Whether I am receiving coaching or have the opportunity to train another Assurance team member, I appreciate that we are given the opportunity to learn and grow on an ongoing basis,” he shared.
Key Components of Working in Our Assurance Service Line
Working with a Variety of Clients
One of the most exciting aspects of a career in Assurance at TBG is the diversity of clients our team gets to work with. Whether it’s helping nonprofits fulfill their missions or supporting complex business operations in construction and manufacturing, our professionals bring their expertise to a wide array of industries.
“Our Assurance team works with a diverse range of clients across multiple industries,” said Jen. “That includes privately held businesses, not-for-profit organizations, real estate firms, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government entities. The common thread among all our clients is their need for high-quality financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and operational insights.”
For some team members, a focus on mission-driven work is especially rewarding. “I primarily work with not-for-profit organizations—institutions, associations, foundations, and fundraising organizations,” shared Sam. “I also work closely with human services clients like children and family service agencies, community service organizations, and providers for individuals with developmental disabilities.”
Others enjoy getting to know the operations of more traditional industries. “I typically work with construction & real estate and manufacturing & distribution clients,” noted Taylor Caton, Principal in our Assurance Service Line. “These businesses often have complex accounting needs tied to large-scale projects or inventory and logistics, which makes the work especially interesting.”
No matter the industry, Assurance professionals at TBG play a critical role in helping clients maintain transparency, meet their regulatory obligations, and make sound financial decisions.
A People-Driven Profession
Many people associate Assurance with spreadsheets and numbers—but there’s so much more to the story. Building strong relationships with clients and team members is a major part of the job.
“I deal more with people than technical accounting at this point,” Taylor noted. “After a few years, a lot of the job becomes team management and client collaboration.”
“Building relationships—with clients, team members, and industry professionals—is just as important as understanding financial statements. We are trusted advisors, helping businesses navigate financial complexities and make informed decisions,” added Jen.
Being an Assurance professional requires communication and the ability to guide clients through complex financial landscapes.
Navigating Challenges
Every role comes with its own set of challenges. For Assurance professionals, these often include staying on top of evolving accounting standards and managing complex client expectations—all while meeting tight deadlines.
“The key to overcoming these challenges is proactive communication, teamwork, and using technology to streamline our processes,” shared Jen.
Making a Meaningful Impact
Perhaps the most rewarding part of working in Assurance is knowing the work you do makes a real difference.
Whether they are helping a client refine their financial reporting, uncovering risks they hadn’t considered, or mentoring a junior team member, our Assurance team members truly make an impact. “There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in knowing that our work contributes to financial transparency and business success,” said Jen.
“When clients feel like they have a partner for their business operations that is one of the most rewarding parts of the audits, especially now that I’ve worked with some of these clients for almost 10 years,” added Taylor.
At TBG, Assurance professionals don’t just check boxes—they help clients succeed, support team growth, and contribute to a transparent, trusted financial environment.
Is Assurance Right for You?
A successful career in Assurance requires a blend of technical skills and soft skills. Some of the most valued traits include:
- Critical thinking
- Effective communication
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Collaboration
- Interest in continuous learning
“A positive attitude might not be a technical skill, but it’s one of the most important intangibles in Assurance. It may seem simple, but it’s often overlooked—and it goes a long way, especially when you’re working in client service,” shared Sam.
Working in the Assurance Service Line at TBG offers a structured yet dynamic path for professional growth, exposure to different industries, and the chance to build long-lasting relationships. If you enjoy problem-solving, working with diverse businesses, and making a meaningful impact, the Assurance team at TBG might be the perfect fit for you!
Stay tuned for more “A Day in the Life” spotlights! In case you missed it, check out the first two blogs of the series here:
Ready to take the next step? Check out our current openings to find your next opportunity. Whether you’re a new college graduate or an experienced professional, we’d love to connect with you and support you in finding the right career path!
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship.
