Esera Leota
Auckland,AUK
Summary
Senior Auditor at Grant Thornton with extensive experience in auditing listed entities and organizations in manufacturing, retail, and not-for-profit sectors. Proven expertise in audit execution, IFRS application, project management, and stakeholder engagement. Currently pursuing Chartered Accountant qualification with CA ANZ, demonstrating a commitment to professional growth and adaptability. Seeking a transition into financial or management accounting roles, aiming for a senior leadership role upon completion of the CA designation.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
SENIOR AUDITOR
Grant Thornton
05.2022 - Current
- Led and supported audit engagements, including client communications regarding audit planning, progress updates, and final deliverables.
- Ensured timely completion of audits, particularly for entities with strict reporting deadlines, through regular team meetings, prompt escalation of critical issues to managers or partners, and consistent client updates.
- Performed risk assessments to tailor audit approaches.
- Designed and executed audit procedures, including control testing, reperformance, and sampling, aligned with engagement objectives.
- Evaluated complex accounting treatments and compliance with standards, focusing on areas such as revenue recognition, IFRS 16 leases, and asset capitalisation.
- Mentored and trained junior staff, reviewed their work for quality and accuracy, guided new team members on audit methodology and provided constructive feedback used in performance evaluations.
- Developed an awareness of the wide range of services offered by the firm and promoted these to clients where appropriate.
Audit Supervisor
BDO in Samoa
Apia, Apia
11.2016 - 04.2021
Education
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT -
Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
In-progress07-2025
Bachelor of Commerce - ACCOUNTING & ECONOMICS
National University of Samoa
06-2016
Skills
- Business Acumen
- Financial Statement Preparation
- Regulatory Compliance
- Microsoft Office Suite
- ERP Software
- Payroll Software
- MYOB
- Xero
- QuickBooks
- IPayroll
- Datacom
- Communication Skills
- Interpersonal Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Time Management
- Organisational Skills
- Record Keeping
- Work Etiquette
Skills
Prepare and assess financial statements to comply with NZ IFRS & GAAP., Regulatory compliance (Companies Act, Income Tax Act, FMA Act)., Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (including Co-Pilot)., Able to navigate various ERP and payroll software. Have exposure to MYOB, Xero, QuickBooks, iPayroll, Datacom etc., Strong interpersonal skills and able to establish rapport with clients., Approachable, with willingness to support the team., Open to feedback for continuous improvement., Apply critical thinking to tasks and research., Maintain accurate records and document flow., Respect for work etiquette.
References
Available upon request
Timeline
SENIOR AUDITOR
Grant Thornton
05.2022 - Current
Audit Supervisor
BDO in Samoa
11.2016 - 04.2021
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT -
Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
Bachelor of Commerce - ACCOUNTING & ECONOMICS
National University of Samoa
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