The Role of Junior Auditors in Small Accounting Firms in the Accra Metropolis

Abstract

The surge of importance and concern given to the role of auditors is apparent since the scandals of Enron and World Com. These scandals are not only prevalent in the United States but also in developing countries like Ghana. The main aim of the study was to examine the role of junior auditors in small accounting firms in the Accra Metropolis. The study was conducted using qualitative research design. The study adopted purposive sampling technique for the selection of interview respondents. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from junior auditors in small accounting firms in the Accra metropolis. Data collected was analyzed using thematic analysis. From the findings of this study, it was discovered that junior auditors do not only perform supporting administrative roles but also technical roles as well. The findings revealed that junior auditors are involved highly in all the stages of audit assignment and their involvement significantly increase audit quality and effectiveness. Some challenges however hinder the work of junior auditors include inadequate compensations, lack of work opportunities among others. Based on the findings of the study it is concluded that junior auditors play significant roles among small accounting firms in Ghana. Through their supportive roles in administration and technical work on auditing, junior auditors have become indispensable human resources for improving the effectiveness of small accounting firms in Ghana. The study recommends accounting firms, both small and big, to harness the potential of junior auditors, supervise them and provide the necessary technical training to contribute more effectively to the quality of auditing process which is aimed at contributing significantly to policy making, practice and knowledge on the industry standard of audit professionals in order to avert future financial crisis as poor auditing could lead to financial consequences.