Hi everyone, this topic is for sharing Preparation guidelines and interview experience for KPMG Finance Executive
The Finance Executive at KPMG involves a multi-stage assessment and interview process, designed to evaluate both technical skills and business proficiency. Below is a summary of the process and key points from the interviews you provided:
Assessment Test Rounds:
Round 1: Aptitude Test
Basic Math (arithmetic, ratios, percentages) and English (grammar, comprehension) questions.
Observed in campus processes (e.g., Christ University) and consultant-led processes.
Round 2: Case Study (Decision Sheet)
Example topic: AI. Candidates analyzed a case and submitted a structured decision sheet with recommendations.
Interview Rounds:
HR Interview
Focus: background verification, resume gap analysis, culture fit.
Technical Interview
Focus: IND AS and other standards, accounting fundamentals, audit topics, and Excel proficiency.
Behavioral Interview
Focus: problem-solving, alignment with KPMG values, communication.
Final Interview
Summary discussion of fit and readiness for the role.
Interview Preparation Tips:
Brush up on IND AS and related standards (e.g., Ind AS 115) and classic AS topics (AS 11, AS 22).
Revise accounting fundamentals: golden rules, depreciation methods, and bad debt treatment.
Practice Excel, especially lookups (VLOOKUP vs XLOOKUP) and common finance-oriented tasks.
Prepare a clear explanation for any resume gaps; be honest if you don’t know an answer.
For case studies, structure a decision sheet with problem definition, analysis, options, recommendation, risks, and implementation steps.
Technical/Accounting and Audit
Explain the key principles of IND AS. How do IND AS differ from other accounting standards?
What are the golden rules of accounting?
How do you compute depreciation in financial accounting? Discuss methods, calculation basis, and journal entries.
What is the treatment of bad debts? Compare direct write-off versus allowance/provision methods.
What is an audit walk-through? How do you perform one and what do you document?
What is CARO? Discuss key clauses and how they affect the auditor’s report.
How would you audit trade receivables? Outline controls testing and substantive procedures (including confirmations and aging analysis).
How would you audit fixed assets? Cover existence, capitalization policy, valuation, and depreciation testing.
How would you audit inventory? Discuss stock counts, valuation (Ind AS 2), obsolescence, and costing methods.
Ind AS 115: Explain the five-step revenue recognition model and provide practical examples.
AS 11: How are foreign exchange transactions and differences accounted for?
AS 22: Explain accounting for taxes on income, including deferred tax assets and liabilities.
Excel Proficiency
What are the differences between XLOOKUP and VLOOKUP? When would you use each?
General Excel-related questions relevant to finance workflows (lookups, data handling).
HR/Personality/Behavioral
Walk me through your background.
Explain any gaps in your resume.
How do your values align with KPMG’s values?
Describe a time you faced a challenging problem and how you resolved it.
Situational/Leadership/Decision-Making
Given a case (e.g., on AI), prepare a decision sheet: analyze options, recommend a course of action, outline risks/mitigations, and propose an implementation plan.
How would you balance technical accounting requirements with business objectives when making a recommendation?
Assessment/Aptitude (Non-interview)
Basic Math questions.
Basic English questions.
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Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Round:
Questions Asked:
Background check and gap analysis.
Your Approach:
I provided a clear and concise overview of my educational and professional background, highlighting any gaps and explaining them logically.
Outcome:
Successfully cleared the HR round.
Round 2 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
Questions about IND AS (Indian Accounting Standards).
Your Approach:
I focused on explaining the key principles of IND AS and how they differ from other accounting standards. I also shared practical examples to demonstrate my understanding.
Outcome:
Cleared the technical round and received positive feedback.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on IND AS and other relevant accounting standards.
Be prepared to explain any gaps in your resume clearly and confidently.
Practice answering technical questions with real-world examples.
Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. The HR round was more about fit and clarity, while the technical round tested my knowledge of accounting standards. I would advise future candidates to focus on both their technical knowledge and communication skills to excel in these rounds.
Application Process: I applied via a referral and was interviewed in February 2024.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - One-on-one Round:
Questions Asked:
Questions related to BRS (Bank Reconciliation Statement) and TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) details.
Your Approach: I tried to explain the concepts clearly, providing practical examples where applicable.
Outcome: [Result not specified]
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on fundamental finance concepts, especially BRS and TDS, as they are commonly asked in finance roles.
Practice explaining these concepts in a simple and concise manner.
Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward, focusing on core finance topics. I felt confident in my answers, but I would recommend practicing more real-world scenarios to be better prepared.
Application Process: I applied via referral and was interviewed in June 2024.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: The test was very much related to Accounting Principles and Core Accounting.
Your Approach: I focused on revising key accounting concepts, journal entries, and calculations like EPS (Earnings Per Share) and diluted EPS.
Outcome: [Not specified]
Preparation Tips:
Topics to prepare: Journal entries, accounting principles, calculation of EPS and diluted EPS.
Skills to focus on: Accounting, Finance, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Auditing, Indirect Taxation, Internal Audit, Process Improvement.
Conclusion:
The interview process was straightforward, with a strong emphasis on core accounting knowledge. I would advise future candidates to thoroughly revise accounting principles and practice calculations to ensure confidence during the test.
Application Process: I applied via a referral and was interviewed in February 2024.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - One-on-one Round:
Questions Asked:
BRS (Bank Reconciliation Statement) and TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) details.
Your Approach: I prepared thoroughly by revising key concepts related to BRS and TDS, ensuring I could explain them clearly with examples.
Outcome: The round went well, and I was able to answer the questions confidently.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on understanding the practical applications of BRS and TDS.
Revise accounting standards and tax-related concepts.
Practice explaining these topics in simple terms to ensure clarity during the interview.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was a great learning experience. I felt well-prepared, but I could have practiced more real-world scenarios to enhance my answers. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of finance topics.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:
Questions Asked: N/A (Resume-based shortlisting)
Your Approach: Ensured my resume was concise and highlighted relevant skills like budgeting, bank reconciliation, and general accounting.
Outcome: Successfully shortlisted for the next round.
Round 2 - HR Round:
Questions Asked:
“Tell me something about yourself.”
Your Approach: Prepared a structured answer focusing on my academic background, relevant skills, and why I was interested in the role.
Outcome: Cleared the HR round and moved to the technical round.
Round 3 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
“About Direct tax provisions.”
Your Approach: Explained the basics of direct tax provisions, their importance, and how they are applied in financial reporting.
Outcome: Successfully answered the question and cleared the round.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on core finance topics like direct tax provisions, budgeting, and reconciliation.
Practice structuring your answers for HR questions like “Tell me about yourself.”
Keep your resume updated and tailored to the role.
Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the questions were aligned with the role. I could have prepared more case studies for the technical round. My advice to future candidates is to thoroughly understand the job description and align your preparation accordingly.
Application Process: I applied through a recruitment consultant and was interviewed in February 2021.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
General questions relating to walk-through, CARO, audit of trade receivables, fixed assets, and inventory.
Questions on Ind AS 115, AS 11, and AS 22.
Your Approach: I tried to answer the questions to the best of my knowledge, focusing on practical applications of the standards.
Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Prepared by practicing general aptitude questions and logical reasoning.
Outcome: Cleared the test successfully.
Round 3 - Behavioral Round:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Focused on showcasing my soft skills and aligning my answers with the company’s values.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 4 - Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly for technical and behavioral aspects.
Outcome: Cleared this round as well.
Round 5 - Final Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Combined technical knowledge with behavioral insights to present myself as a well-rounded candidate.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the final round.
Preparation Tips:
If you don’t know the answer to a question, be honest and admit it. The interviewer can usually tell, and honesty is appreciated.
Focus on understanding practical applications of accounting standards like Ind AS 115, AS 11, and AS 22.
Practice general aptitude and logical reasoning questions for the aptitude test.
Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the company’s values.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and tested both technical and behavioral competencies. Being honest about what I didn’t know helped build trust with the interviewers. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation on accounting standards and practicing aptitude questions. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills and behavioral questions in the process.
Application Process: Applied via campus placement at Christ University, Bangalore in November 2023.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Basic math and English questions.
Your Approach: Found the math and English sections straightforward and manageable.
Outcome: Passed the round.
Round 2 - Case Study:
Questions Asked: Required to submit a decision sheet on a given case study (topic: AI).
Your Approach: Analyzed the case thoroughly and structured the decision sheet logically.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.
Round 3 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
Golden rules of accounting.
How to compute depreciation while undergoing Financial Accounting.
Excel-related questions.
Treatment of Bad debt.
Differences between XLOOKUP and VLOOKUP.
Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly for accounting fundamentals and Excel functions.
Outcome: Cleared the round with confidence.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on basic accounting principles and rules.
Practice Excel functions like VLOOKUP and XLOOKUP.
Be ready for case study analysis and decision-making scenarios.
Conclusion:
The interview process was well-structured and tested both technical and analytical skills. Preparing thoroughly for accounting basics and Excel functions was key. For future candidates, I’d recommend brushing up on these areas and staying calm during the case study round.
Application Process: I applied via Naukri.com and was interviewed before March 2023.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Assignment Round:
Questions Asked: Accounting-related questions.
Your Approach: I focused on demonstrating my understanding of accounting principles and practical applications.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.
Round 2 - One-on-One Round:
Questions Asked:
Questions related to RTR accounting, IFRS, and US GAAP.
What is lease accounting?
Process of month-end.
What are prepayments?
Your Approach: I answered based on my knowledge of accounting standards and practical experience, providing clear explanations.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 3 - HR Round:
Questions Asked: Package discussion.
Your Approach: I negotiated politely while keeping my expectations realistic.
Outcome: Finalized the offer details.
Preparation Tips:
Have good accounting knowledge, especially in areas like RTR accounting, IFRS, US GAAP, and month-end processes.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the questions were aligned with the role’s requirements. I could have prepared more on lease accounting specifics, but my strong foundation in accounting helped me clear the rounds. For future candidates, I recommend brushing up on key accounting standards and practical scenarios.
Your Approach: Ensured the resume was crisp and highlighted relevant skills and experiences.
Outcome: Shortlisted for the next round.
Round 2 - HR Round:
Questions Asked: “Tell me something about yourself.”
Your Approach: Prepared a concise and engaging self-introduction, focusing on professional background and key strengths.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 3 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked: “About Direct tax provisions.”
Your Approach: Explained the concept clearly, providing examples or relevant provisions to demonstrate understanding.
Outcome: [Outcome not specified]
Preparation Tips:
Keep your resume concise and tailored to the role.
Practice common HR questions like self-introductions.
Brush up on technical topics related to the role, such as direct tax provisions.
Conclusion:
The interview process was structured and focused on both technical and interpersonal skills. Preparing a strong resume and practicing common questions helped in navigating the rounds smoothly. For future candidates, focusing on clarity and relevance in responses is key.
Application Process: Applied via campus placement in October 2022.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:
Questions Asked: Resume screening to shortlist candidates.
Your Approach: Ensured my resume was concise and focused on relevant skills and experiences. Avoided unnecessary personal details.
Outcome: Successfully shortlisted for the next round.
Round 2 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Verbal, quantitative, and reasoning questions.
Your Approach: Practiced aptitude questions beforehand to improve speed and accuracy.
Outcome: Cleared the aptitude test.
Round 3 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked: “Walk me through a balance sheet.”
Your Approach: Explained the components of a balance sheet (assets, liabilities, equity) and their interrelationships clearly.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 4 - Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked: “Tell me about a time you had to deal with multiple stakeholders.”
Your Approach: Shared a specific example from my past experience, highlighting communication and problem-solving skills.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the behavioral round.
Preparation Tips:
The interviews were relatively straightforward. Focus on being confident with your answers.
Practice aptitude tests to ensure you can handle the quantitative and reasoning sections.
Be prepared to discuss technical finance concepts like balance sheets in detail.
For behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. Being confident and well-prepared helped me navigate each round successfully. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing common technical and behavioral questions and ensuring your resume is polished and to the point.
Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Round:
Questions Asked:
Background check and gap analysis.
Your Approach:
I provided a detailed explanation of my academic and professional background, addressing any gaps transparently and highlighting how I utilized the time productively.
Outcome:
Successfully cleared the HR round.
Round 2 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
Questions primarily about IND AS (Indian Accounting Standards).
Your Approach:
I discussed the key aspects of IND AS, its importance, and how it differs from other accounting standards. I also shared practical examples to demonstrate my understanding.
Outcome:
Cleared the technical round.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on understanding IND AS thoroughly, as it is a critical topic for finance roles in KPMG.
Brush up on accounting fundamentals and practical applications.
Be prepared to explain any gaps in your resume clearly and confidently.
Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. The HR round was more about understanding my background, while the technical round tested my knowledge of accounting standards. I felt confident in my preparation, but I could have practiced more real-world scenarios related to IND AS. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of accounting standards and be transparent about your career journey.
Application Process: I applied via a recruitment consultant and was interviewed in February 2021.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Round:
Questions Asked:
General questions relating to walk-through, CARO, audit of trade receivables, fixed assets, and inventory.
Questions on Ind AS 115, AS 11, and AS 22.
Your Approach: I tried to answer the questions to the best of my knowledge, focusing on practical applications of the standards.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Prepared by practicing general aptitude questions.
Outcome: Cleared the round.
Round 3 - Behavioral Round:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Focused on aligning my answers with the company’s values and culture.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 4 - Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Stayed calm and answered honestly.
Outcome: Passed to the final round.
Round 5 - Final Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: Highlighted my skills and experience relevant to the role.
Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.
Preparation Tips:
If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s better to admit it honestly. The interviewer can usually tell, and honesty is appreciated.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and tested both technical and behavioral aspects. I found it helpful to be honest about my knowledge gaps and focus on practical applications of accounting standards. For future candidates, I’d recommend brushing up on Ind AS and other relevant standards, as well as practicing behavioral questions to align with the company’s culture.
Your Approach: Researched KPMG’s financial services and tailored my answers accordingly.
Outcome: Progressed further.
Round 6 - Technical Round (4):
Questions Asked: Budgeting, forecasting, and situation-based questions.
Your Approach: Used real-life examples to demonstrate my problem-solving skills.
Outcome: Cleared the round.
Round 7 - HR Round:
Questions Asked: Salary expectations, “Why should we hire you?”, “Why are you looking for a change?”, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, “Strengths and weaknesses,” “Tell me about yourself.”
Your Approach: Answered honestly and aligned my responses with the company’s values and goals.
Outcome: Final selection.
Preparation Tips:
Be thorough with your CV and the basics of finance.
Practice Excel VBA and situational questions.
Research the company and its financial services.
Conclusion:
The interview process was rigorous but well-structured. Being prepared with my CV and finance fundamentals helped me clear the rounds. For future candidates, I recommend focusing on practical applications of finance concepts and practicing HR questions to articulate your thoughts clearly.
Application Process: I applied via a recruitment consultant and was interviewed in February 2021.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
General questions relating to walk-through, CARO, audit of trade receivables, fixed assets, and inventory.
Questions on Ind AS 115, AS 11, and AS 22.
Your Approach: I tried to answer the questions to the best of my knowledge, focusing on practical applications of the standards.
Outcome: I passed this round.
Round 2 - Aptitude Test:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: I prepared by revising basic aptitude topics and practiced sample questions.
Outcome: I cleared this round.
Round 3 - Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with the company’s values and demonstrated my problem-solving skills.
Outcome: I progressed to the next round.
Round 4 - Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: I maintained a professional demeanor and answered confidently.
Outcome: I advanced further.
Round 5 - Final Interview:
Questions Asked: Not specified.
Your Approach: I reiterated my skills and how they align with the role.
Outcome: I successfully cleared this round.
Preparation Tips:
If you don’t know the answer to a question, be honest and admit it. The interviewer can tell if you’re unsure.
Focus on understanding practical applications of accounting standards like Ind AS 115, AS 11, and AS 22.
Brush up on aptitude topics and behavioral interview techniques.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and tested both technical and behavioral skills. Being honest about what I didn’t know worked in my favor. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation on accounting standards and staying calm during the interviews.