Auditing standards may be global, but the way people work together isn’t.

Following her recent promotion to Associate Director, we sat down with Svetlana Petrukhina to discuss her journey from Russia to New Zealand, her approach to auditing and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Having built her career across two very different business environments, Svetlana has seen first-hand how culture shapes communication, relationships and accountability. While the technical foundations of auditing remain the same, she believes the strongest outcomes come when auditors and clients work together openly, respectfully and without unnecessary complexity.

A different way of doing business

“The core principles of auditing are the same wherever you go,” says Svetlana.

“We follow the same international auditing standards, the same code of ethics, the same principles of independence, professional scepticism and evidence-based auditing.”

What surprised her was not the technical side of the profession, but the culture surrounding it.

“New Zealand and Russia are very different. The business environment here is much more human-to-human.”

She describes New Zealand workplaces as less formal, more flexible and more focused on relationships, while in Russia there is an expectation that everything should have been done yesterday. The pressure was very high. Here, there are still deadlines and expectations, but there is more understanding that sometimes life happens.”

Moving to New Zealand in 2018 brought both professional and personal challenges. Alongside adapting to a new country, language and culture, Svetlana had to navigate a different way of doing business, learning new systems, law and regulations.

“It’s more relaxed here, both professionally and in everyday life. People value work-life balance and there is more flexibility in how people communicate and work together.”

Making audit easier to understand

One of the things Svetlana enjoys most about working at BVO Audit is helping clients understand the audit process.

“Not everyone has a background in finance, reporting or accounting. If we use too much professional jargon, people can become confused and wonder what we’re actually asking for.”

Instead, she focuses on explaining requirements clearly and respectfully.

“Our clients are professionals in their own fields. We’re not there to make things more complicated. Open communication helps clients understand the process and helps us work more efficiently together.”

For Svetlana, strong client relationships aren’t separate from good auditing — they’re a critical part of it.

This approach reflects BVO Audit’s commitment to building strong relationships and creating value beyond compliance.

Why BVO Audit stood out

Before joining BVO Audit, Svetlana had worked in both external and internal audit roles, boutique firms and mid-Tier firms, including six years with the Russian National Tax Authority.

She was looking for an environment where she could make a genuine impact.

“I’ve never wanted to be a part of large organisations where your ability to make an impact is limited” she says.

Founded in 1951, BVO was already a well-established accounting practice when Svetlana joined in 2023. What attracted her was the opportunity to help shape a relatively new and growing audit division while still benefiting from the experience and reputation of a long-standing firm.

“When I joined BVO, the audit division was still relatively new and growing. It was exactly what I was looking for — professional, ethical and collaborative.”

She particularly values the firm’s open-door culture.

“The partners are approachable. Everyone is approachable. There is open communication and a willingness to listen to new ideas.”

Learning never stops

Svetlana’s commitment to professional development has been a constant throughout her career.

After studying accounting and economics in Russia, she completed ACCA studies and a Diploma in International Financial Reporting. Following her move to New Zealand, she completed a postgraduate business course and got accepted as a member of the ACCA UK and continues to work towards additional local professional requirements.

“It feels like I’ve been studying my entire life,” she laughs.

But continual learning is one of the things she enjoys most about the profession.

“Auditing gives you exposure to so many different industries. Every client is different. Every engagement is different. You’re constantly learning.”

From manufacturing businesses and grain storage facilities to charities and community organisations, she has gained insight into industries most people would never encounter.

“That’s one of the things I love about auditing. It broadens your horizons.”

Looking ahead

Reflecting on her promotion to Associate Director – Audit & Assurance, Svetlana is quick to acknowledge the people who have supported her journey.

“With time, support and the right opportunities, what was once only a dream has become reality.”

Looking ahead, she is focused on maintaining quality, supporting clients and developing the next generation of auditors.

“I want to help the business continue to grow, bring more value to our clients and support our team members in their professional development.”

For Svetlana, success in auditing is about more than technical expertise.

“It requires learning, but it also requires adaptability, flexibility and the ability to listen and understand other people.”

For Svetlana, that’s what great auditing is really about.

This article is based on an interview with Svetlana Petrukhina following her promotion to Associate Director at BVO Audit.

Looking for an audit partner who speaks your language?

As Svetlana explains, great audits start with clear communication and strong relationships.

If you’d like to discuss your organisation’s audit or assurance requirements, book a free 30-minute consultation with one of our qualified auditors. We’ll explain the process, answer your questions and help you determine the right approach for your organisation.