Reverse Mentoring Programme
In Audit & Assurance
The Reverse Mentoring Programme in Audit & Assurance is a unique opportunity for our next generation of talent to share expertise and insights with senior leaders. It pairs a senior leader with one of our junior practitioners to exchange knowledge, skills, and perspectives on topics such as technology, social media, current trends, leadership, and any other topics of mutual interest.
This two-way learning experience aims to bridge generational and skill-based gaps, foster diversity of thought and enhance building relationships across different levels.
Discover below how Anne-Catherine Walder, Assistant, and Tan Lay Boon, Partner, have benefited from this programme and read about their personal mentoring experiences.
Why did you decide to take part in the Reverse Mentoring Programme?
Boon: I actively volunteered because I'm genuinely interested in understanding what the next generation of our leaders are thinking and their vision for our business's future. It's easy to become insulated at senior levels, so this programme gives me a direct line to perspectives that might otherwise go unheard. It allows me to stress-test our current strategy and ensure we're not losing touch with the talent and thinking that will drive us forward.
Anne-Catherine: I joined because I wanted the perspectives of the next generation to be heard. It was important for me to contribute my views in a way that can potentially shape how we work. At the same time, I saw it as an opportunity to have a true one-on-one exchange with a Partner. This allows me to better understand the perspectives of our leadership while also getting my own opinions genuinely heard and taken seriously.
What is your shared topic of discussion, and why did you choose it?
Boon: Our discussions naturally evolved across two interconnected areas. Professionally, we've explored AI's impact on our business and the future of our profession – topics that are clearly shaping how the next generation thinks about their careers. Personally, we've discussed family, work-life balance, and what drives career motivation today. I chose these topics because they're fundamental to understanding not just what the next generation wants, but why. What's particularly striking is how the drivers have shifted; what motivated me as a young professional is quite different from what motivates Ann-Catherine's generation. That gap is truly enlightening for me.
Anne-Catherine: We covered various topics, and what stood out most for me were topics such as women in leadership and the compatibility of leadership roles with family life. I was particularly interested in these areas because they are highly relevant for my own future as well as for the general development of the firm. As these topics influence how sustainable and inclusive leadership can be in the long term for anyone, I wanted to share the perspective of my generation as well as better understand how they are currently approached, especially at a senior level.
"This programme forces you – in the best way – to step outside your assumptions and engage with perspectives that challenge you. For senior leaders, it's a reality check. "
Tan Lay Boon, Partner
How has the experience been for you so far?
Boon: It's been genuinely refreshing. Anne-Catherine has shared perspectives that simply weren't on my radar, and the relationship has created a safe environment where I can test my assumptions, and she can challenge my thinking – all in a mutually respectful way. What I appreciate most is that we're both genuinely learning. There's no hierarchy in the conversation; it's a real exchange of ideas.
Anne-Catherine: The experience has been very positive and insightful. The relationship between Boon and me is open, respectful, and most importantly on equal footing, which made it easy to have an honest and meaningful conversation. I especially appreciated that he took the time to truly understand my perspective and challenge me on my views.
Would you recommend the programme to others?
Boon: Absolutely. In our business, our people are our greatest asset, and the future depends on us truly understanding what the next generation is thinking and what matters to them. This programme forces you – in the best way – to step outside your assumptions and engage with perspectives that challenge you. For senior leaders, it's a reality check. For the business, it's invaluable intelligence about where our talent is heading and what they need from us.
Anne-Catherine: I would absolutely recommend the programme to others, as it gives the opportunity to exchange perspectives with senior leadership in a very direct way. It not only allows you to share your own views but also to better understand the reasoning and challenges on leadership level.
