Inside Careers Guide to Chartered Accountancy
The only graduate career guide to Chartered Accountancy; published in partnership with ICAEW.
The only graduate career guide to Chartered Accountancy; published in partnership with ICAEW.
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH<br />
THE ONLY GRADUATE CAREER GUIDE TO<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong><br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong><br />
31st Edition<br />
The must-read guide for<br />
undergraduates wanting <strong>to</strong><br />
succeed in accountancy, finance<br />
and business – ICAEW<br />
Contents<br />
The profession<br />
Finding the right job<br />
Internship profiles<br />
Graduate profiles<br />
Senior profiles<br />
ICAEW & qualifications<br />
Employer direc<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
Job finder
Dare <strong>to</strong> be<br />
Remarkable<br />
Menzies LLP is looking for the brightest talent <strong>to</strong> join our<br />
Trainee Programmes 2018:<br />
ACA Graduate Training<br />
ACCA Insolvency Graduate Training<br />
ATT Tax Training<br />
AAT <strong>Accountancy</strong> Apprenticeship<br />
1 year ‘Rotation’ Placement Programme<br />
We are also looking for ambitious second year university students<br />
Interested?<br />
Apply online at menzies.co.uk/careers<br />
@Menzies<strong>Careers</strong><br />
/menziesllpcareersuk<br />
London | Surrey | Hampshire | Cardiff
Visit www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc for:<br />
JOB<br />
SEARCH<br />
JOB<br />
SEARCH<br />
EMPLOYER<br />
DIRECTORY<br />
EMPLOYER<br />
DIRECTORY<br />
DEADLINES<br />
DEADLINES<br />
CALENDAR<br />
CALENDAR<br />
EVENTS<br />
CALENDAR<br />
EVENTS<br />
CALENDAR<br />
EMAIL<br />
ALERTS<br />
EMAIL<br />
ALERTS<br />
VIDEOS,<br />
BLOGS,<br />
VIDEOS,<br />
NEWS<br />
BLOGS, NEWS<br />
‘We hope you enjoy using this guide <strong>to</strong> learn<br />
more about chartered accountancy. We will give<br />
you a real insight in<strong>to</strong> the career.’<br />
Mark Protherough, Executive Direc<strong>to</strong>r<br />
Learning and Professional Development at ICAEW<br />
‘The <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Careers</strong> guide was a great<br />
starting point, with plenty of information <strong>to</strong><br />
support my job applications’<br />
Lisa Chen, Trainee Accountant, Alliotts<br />
ICAEW Order of Merit Winner for Tax Compliance 2016
CONTENTS<br />
Introduction from ICAEW 05<br />
THE PROFESSION<br />
What is <strong>Chartered</strong> <strong>Accountancy</strong>? 08<br />
Five Reasons <strong>to</strong> Become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant 10<br />
Areas of Work 12<br />
Accounting & Finance Salary Trends 15<br />
FINDING THE RIGHT JOB<br />
Education & Skills 16<br />
Choosing the Right Employer 18<br />
Internships & Work Experience 20<br />
Applications & Interviews 22<br />
INTERNSHIP PROFILES<br />
Summer Intern – PKF Littlejohn 28<br />
Industrial Placement Student – Menzies 30<br />
ABS Summer Intern – Smith & Williamson 32
GRADUATE PROFILES<br />
Audit Senior – Hillier Hopkins 34<br />
Trainee Accountant – Blick Rothenberg 36<br />
Trainee Accountant – Alliotts 38<br />
SENIOR PROFILES<br />
Manager, Accounts and Audit – Saffery Champness 40<br />
Senior Manager, Audit and Assurance – Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves 42<br />
ICAEW & QUALIFICATIONS<br />
About ICAEW 46<br />
How <strong>to</strong> Become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant 47<br />
ICAEW Student Scheme 50<br />
The ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB) 51
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Albert Goodman 54<br />
Alliotts 55<br />
ASE Global 56<br />
Barnes Roffe 58<br />
BDO LLP 60<br />
Blick Rothenberg 62<br />
Blinkhorns 64<br />
Brebners 66<br />
Citroen Wells 68<br />
Deloitte 70<br />
Gerald Edelman 72<br />
Grant Thorn<strong>to</strong>n UK 73<br />
Haslers 74<br />
HAT Group 76<br />
Haysmacintyre 77<br />
Hazlewoods 78<br />
Hillier Hopkins 80<br />
HW Fisher & Company 82<br />
Kings<strong>to</strong>n Smith 84<br />
Knox Cropper 85<br />
Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves 86<br />
Lubbock Fine 88<br />
Mazars 90<br />
Menzies 92<br />
Mercer & Hole 94<br />
Metric 95<br />
Moore Stephens 96<br />
Nyman Libson Paul 97<br />
PKF Littlejohn LLP 98<br />
Rayner Essex 99<br />
Rees Pollock 100<br />
RSM 102<br />
Saffery Champness 104<br />
Shipleys 106<br />
Smith & Williamson 107<br />
UHY Hacker Young 108<br />
Wilkins Kennedy LLP 109<br />
JOB FINDER<br />
Job Finder 110
INTRODUCTION FROM ICAEW<br />
Mark Protherough introduces the <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Careers</strong> <strong>Guide</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> 2017/18. Mark gives reasons for becoming an ICAEW<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant, joining ICAEW and reading the rest of this guide.<br />
Do you want a rewarding, diverse and<br />
challenging career? Consider becoming an<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant.<br />
ICAEW works with a global network of over<br />
3,500 authorised employers worldwide,<br />
offering you the opportunity <strong>to</strong> train<br />
<strong>to</strong>wards becoming a chartered accountant.<br />
Combining professional development, ethics,<br />
work experience and academic study, our<br />
globally-recognised chartered accountancy<br />
qualification, the ACA, will develop you in<strong>to</strong> a<br />
credible business professional. Not only that,<br />
but as an ICAEW member, we will continue<br />
<strong>to</strong> support you throughout your career –<br />
wherever you choose <strong>to</strong> take it.<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants are recognised<br />
around the world as leaders in accountancy,<br />
finance and business. They are the ones<br />
making commercial decisions that affect<br />
the strategy, direction and profitability of<br />
organisations around the world.<br />
You will find our members working in<br />
all sec<strong>to</strong>rs – from large multinational<br />
organisations and global accountancy firms,<br />
<strong>to</strong> local charities and business start-ups. Their<br />
roles vary from being business consultants<br />
and Practice Partners, <strong>to</strong> Finance Direc<strong>to</strong>rs and<br />
CEOs. They are recognised for their leadership<br />
and expertise – that’s why 79 of the FTSE<br />
100 companies have an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountant on their board*.<br />
You may be surprised <strong>to</strong> hear that our<br />
members come from a wide variety of degree<br />
disciplines. Employers look for high calibre<br />
graduates from varied backgrounds, because<br />
they want people who can think differently.<br />
Once you commit <strong>to</strong> ACA training, we will be<br />
here <strong>to</strong> support you at every stage of your<br />
journey – whether it’s providing study support,<br />
professional development webinars, careers<br />
advice or networking opportunities. Once<br />
you have qualified, you will be invited <strong>to</strong> join<br />
our global network of over 147,000 ICAEW<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants.<br />
We hope you enjoy using this guide <strong>to</strong> learn<br />
more about chartered accountancy. We will give<br />
you a real insight in<strong>to</strong> the career, from the wide<br />
range of employers available, <strong>to</strong> the salary you<br />
can earn while you’re training and once you<br />
qualify. There are also lots of tips on finding an<br />
internship and more about our qualifications.<br />
If you think you’ve got what it takes <strong>to</strong> become<br />
an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant, take the first<br />
step and start your journey <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
* Source: ICAEW member data at January 2017<br />
Mark Protherough, Executive Direc<strong>to</strong>r – Learning and<br />
Professional Development for ICAEW.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
5
THE PROFESSION<br />
What is <strong>Chartered</strong> <strong>Accountancy</strong>? 08<br />
Five Reasons <strong>to</strong> Become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant 10<br />
Areas of Work 12<br />
Accounting & Finance Salary Trends 15
FINDING THE RIGHT JOB<br />
Education & Skills 16<br />
Choosing the Right Employer 18<br />
Internships & Work Experience 20<br />
Applications & Interviews 22
WHAT IS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANCY?<br />
Accountants work in all business sec<strong>to</strong>rs, both public and private, using their<br />
knowledge, skills and expertise <strong>to</strong> give professional advice <strong>to</strong> organisations on a variety<br />
of strategic, commercial and financial issues. Here we take a closer look at what it<br />
means <strong>to</strong> be a chartered accountant.<br />
What do chartered accountants do?<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants are recognised<br />
around the world as being highly qualified<br />
professionals. They are known for their ability<br />
<strong>to</strong> deliver the highest professional standards,<br />
wherever they work, however large or small<br />
the challenge. The skills that ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants have are valuable <strong>to</strong> businesses of<br />
all kinds. They often work in strategic positions<br />
that affect the direction and success of the<br />
organisations they work with.<br />
As a chartered accountant, you can work across<br />
a diverse range of specialist financial areas<br />
including reporting, taxation, auditing, forensic<br />
accounting, corporate finance, business<br />
recovery and insolvency.<br />
Depending on the area you choose <strong>to</strong><br />
specialise in, typical tasks could include:<br />
• Continuous management of financial<br />
systems and budgets.<br />
• Undertaking financial audits – an<br />
independent check of a company’s<br />
financial position.<br />
• Liaising with clients <strong>to</strong> provide financial<br />
information and advice.<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> accountancy involves more<br />
interaction with people than you may think.<br />
8 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
WHAT IS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANCY?<br />
While technical knowledge is vital, it’s also<br />
about being able <strong>to</strong> understand key business<br />
challenges: solving problems, finding answers,<br />
analysing information and interpreting facts and<br />
figures <strong>to</strong> make business recommendations.<br />
You’ll need <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> communicate your<br />
expertise <strong>to</strong> colleagues, managers and clients in<br />
an easy <strong>to</strong> understand way.<br />
What’s the difference<br />
between an accountant and a<br />
‘chartered’ accountant?<br />
Anyone can call themselves an<br />
accountant, but a chartered accountant<br />
is a highly-qualified professional<br />
(someone who has studied for at least<br />
three years and passed rigorous exams)<br />
and a member of a professional body<br />
with a royal charter, such as ICAEW.<br />
They will be able <strong>to</strong> have the letters ACA<br />
after their name and are also bound<br />
by a Code of Ethics. Whether you’re an<br />
accountant, engineer or surveyor, being<br />
‘chartered’ means you’re at the <strong>to</strong>p of<br />
your profession.<br />
Types of accountancy<br />
There are two main types of accountancy –<br />
financial and management accountancy.<br />
MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANTS<br />
Management accountants provide financial<br />
information internally within an organisation.<br />
This could be, for example, data given <strong>to</strong><br />
management <strong>to</strong> aid in decision making. As<br />
a management accountant, you might get<br />
While technical knowledge is<br />
vital, it’s also about being able<br />
<strong>to</strong> understand key business<br />
challenges: solving problems,<br />
finding answers, analysing<br />
information and interpreting<br />
facts and figures <strong>to</strong> make<br />
business recommendations.<br />
involved in performing budget analysis, financial<br />
planning and forecasting. In management<br />
accountancy, the emphasis is on forward<br />
planning and the achievement of financial goals.<br />
FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANTS<br />
Financial accountants provide information<br />
for the use of people external <strong>to</strong> a company,<br />
such as shareholders, inves<strong>to</strong>rs and credi<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Financial accountants focus more on the<br />
summarising of a company’s current position,<br />
reporting on a company’s profitability,<br />
liquidity, solvency and stability. Unlike<br />
management accounting, financial accounting<br />
is required by law.<br />
Many graduates entering the accountancy<br />
profession will do so through financial<br />
accountancy, working in professional services<br />
or public practice. You could choose a career in<br />
any of the following specialisms:<br />
• Audit and assurance<br />
• Business advisory<br />
• Business recovery and insolvency<br />
• Corporate finance and risk management<br />
• Forensic accounting<br />
• Taxation. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
9
FIVE REASONS TO BECOME AN ICAEW<br />
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT<br />
There aren’t many careers as diverse as accountancy. It offers unrivalled opportunities,<br />
potential for international travel, a competitive salary and job security. Read on <strong>to</strong> find<br />
out some of the many benefits of becoming an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant.<br />
1<br />
Earning potential and opportunity<br />
Globally, a chartered accountant’s<br />
average salary plus bonus, 0-2 years<br />
post-qualification, is £49.9k.<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants work<br />
at 97% of the world’s 100 leading global<br />
brands and 100% of the best global<br />
green brands.<br />
Training and support<br />
A training agreement consists of practical<br />
work experience as well as studying and<br />
exams. You’ll receive an attractive salary<br />
and full support from your employer<br />
throughout your training, with them<br />
often paying for your qualification and<br />
giving you time off <strong>to</strong> study.<br />
2<br />
3<br />
Accountant<br />
Flexibility<br />
You don’t need a business or financial<br />
degree <strong>to</strong> become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
– all degrees are welcome.<br />
10 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
FIVE REASONS TO BECOME AN ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT<br />
4<br />
and<br />
Variety<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> accountants work for<br />
organisations of all shapes and sizes<br />
and across a wide variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs and<br />
industries. Many of them even start up<br />
run their own businesses.<br />
A global career<br />
5<br />
The ACA is recognised around the<br />
world. In fact our members work in over<br />
154 countries worldwide and ICAEW<br />
is a founding partner of <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants Worldwide (CAW).<br />
Working as a chartered accountant is a<br />
rewarding, interesting and exciting career.<br />
Read the profiles in this guide from page<br />
28 <strong>to</strong> get an insight in<strong>to</strong> what it’s like <strong>to</strong><br />
work in the industry. You can find out<br />
more about the ICAEW from page 46 and<br />
on the <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Careers</strong> website. •<br />
For more on ICAEW qualifications:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
11
AREAS OF WORK<br />
Perhaps you want a career where you can influence the strategy, direction and<br />
profitability of an organisation? Or maybe, a career that gives you the opportunity <strong>to</strong><br />
make a real difference, through ensuring that your employer has the funds <strong>to</strong> deliver its<br />
charitable work. Sound interesting? With a range of industries and sec<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> work in, a<br />
career in chartered accountancy really does offer limitless and exciting opportunities.<br />
Professional services and public practice<br />
A public practice firm’s accountants deal with<br />
the accounting and financial needs of a client<br />
whilst remaining independent from their<br />
client’s staff. Varying in size, type and location,<br />
accountancy practices offer their clients a<br />
range of services including:<br />
• Audit and assurance<br />
• Business advisory<br />
• Business recovery and insolvency<br />
• Consultancy<br />
• Corporate finance and risk management<br />
• Forensic accounting<br />
• Tax advice.<br />
WHY WORK IN PUBLIC PRACTICE?<br />
Public practice can present trainees with a wide<br />
variety of experiences, working in multiple<br />
industries, providing challenge and flexibility.<br />
This area of accountancy also offers<br />
opportunities <strong>to</strong> specialise, for example, in<br />
audit or consultancy. Finally, public practice<br />
is often seen as a sec<strong>to</strong>r that can offer job<br />
security, whereas other sec<strong>to</strong>rs can be hit hard<br />
by a recession.<br />
A highly competitive<br />
environment with<br />
rapidly-changing risks and<br />
constant demands for innovation.<br />
ROUTES INTO PUBLIC PRACTICE<br />
Within public practice there are large<br />
international firms, including the ‘Big Four’<br />
global accountancy firms – PwC, EY, KPMG<br />
and Deloitte – as well as smaller accountancy<br />
firms, known as small and medium practices<br />
(SMPs). So, there is a lot of variety for<br />
graduates interested in entering in<strong>to</strong> this area<br />
of accountancy. Specific entry roles in public<br />
practice include Audit Trainee, Assurance<br />
Trainee and Financial Analyst.<br />
Business and financial services<br />
A growing number of graduates are beginning<br />
their accountancy careers in banks and<br />
businesses. Whether it is a large global<br />
organisation or a small business, working in this<br />
sec<strong>to</strong>r means that you will experience the full<br />
process of financial management and reporting.<br />
You will also develop an understanding of IT,<br />
marketing, sales and operations.<br />
It can be a highly competitive environment<br />
with rapidly-changing risks and constant<br />
demands for innovation. As your career<br />
progresses, you’ll become involved in making<br />
strategic decisions <strong>to</strong> drive the business<br />
forward, creating plans and leading change for<br />
business success.<br />
WHY WORK IN BUSINESS AND<br />
FINANCIAL SERVICES?<br />
Working in industry allows you <strong>to</strong> make<br />
strategic decisions and work <strong>to</strong>wards the<br />
12 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
AREAS OF WORK<br />
WHERE ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS WORK<br />
growth of a company, which can offer a great<br />
deal of personal satisfaction. Many choose<br />
<strong>to</strong> work in commerce within an industry that<br />
they are particularly passionate about, such as<br />
media or technology.<br />
ROUTES INTO ACCOUNTANCY IN INDUSTRY<br />
A common route in<strong>to</strong> commerce and<br />
industry is for accountants <strong>to</strong> make the move<br />
once they have completed their three-year<br />
training agreements.<br />
Accountants are needed in all areas of industry<br />
<strong>to</strong> manage budgets, moni<strong>to</strong>r the economic<br />
health of the company and make important<br />
strategic decisions. Consequently, accountants<br />
often occupy the most senior positions in<br />
companies, all the way <strong>to</strong> chief executive.<br />
Typically, accountants working within financial<br />
services work in middle office banking roles, such<br />
as working in control, moni<strong>to</strong>ring trade activity.<br />
Financial services includes global banks with<br />
departments that offer accountancy training, for<br />
example, Goldman Sachs, HSBC and Macquarie.<br />
Charity and not-for-profit<br />
Would you like <strong>to</strong> use your skills <strong>to</strong> make an<br />
impact on society? Then consider working in the<br />
charity and not-for-profit sec<strong>to</strong>r. Organisations<br />
in this sec<strong>to</strong>r need <strong>to</strong> carefully manage scarce<br />
resources and ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants<br />
working in them get involved in a range of<br />
activities. This can include working for a charity<br />
in a management accounting role, managing<br />
budgets, financial systems and liaising with<br />
budget holders and trustees <strong>to</strong> manage the<br />
needs of the organisation. Or it could be working<br />
for a charity specialist auditing firm, delivering<br />
high-quality audit work, systems reviews and<br />
consultancies in<strong>to</strong> the needs of charity clients.<br />
WHY WORK IN CHARITY AND<br />
NOT-FOR-PROFIT?<br />
There are many reasons why working in a<br />
charity or not-for-profit organisation can<br />
make for a rewarding and satisfying career.<br />
This area of accountancy generally offers very<br />
gratifying work – knowing that you are helping<br />
an organisation that exists <strong>to</strong> make a positive<br />
difference in the world.<br />
The ICAEW has a charity and voluntary sec<strong>to</strong>r<br />
group where you can find more information<br />
about the current challenges facing the industry.<br />
Public sec<strong>to</strong>r<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> accountants in the public sec<strong>to</strong>r<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
13
AREAS OF WORK<br />
Accountants are needed<br />
in all areas of industry <strong>to</strong><br />
manage budgets, moni<strong>to</strong>r<br />
the economic health of the<br />
company and make important<br />
strategic decisions.<br />
manage, distribute and invest finances in public<br />
services such as health, education, housing,<br />
emergency services and local authority<br />
services. They are constantly challenged <strong>to</strong><br />
reduce expenditure and improve efficiency<br />
<strong>to</strong> ensure value for money. They are also in<br />
charge of holding government departments <strong>to</strong><br />
account by moni<strong>to</strong>ring spending.<br />
By working in this sec<strong>to</strong>r you’ll be responsible<br />
for making sure that public money is being<br />
spent properly for the benefit of the nation.<br />
You’ll be helping local communities and<br />
changing people’s lives, while leading a<br />
successful and satisfying career.<br />
WHY WORK IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR?<br />
If you work in the public sec<strong>to</strong>r, you will quickly<br />
develop commercial and decision-making<br />
skills as you allocate and moni<strong>to</strong>r resources<br />
– helping <strong>to</strong> see that they’re efficiently and<br />
effectively employed <strong>to</strong> give value for money.<br />
Many graduates also choose <strong>to</strong> develop their<br />
career in the public sec<strong>to</strong>r as it affords the<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> give something back <strong>to</strong> society.<br />
Additional benefits, such as good pension<br />
schemes and longer holidays can be a deciding<br />
fac<strong>to</strong>r for choosing <strong>to</strong> work in the public rather<br />
than private sec<strong>to</strong>r. •<br />
14 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
ACCOUNTING & FINANCE<br />
SALARY TRENDS<br />
Demand for newly-qualified accountants is growing as businesses are eager <strong>to</strong> hire<br />
professionals with the attitude <strong>to</strong> succeed, combined with the right cultural fit. The team<br />
at Robert Half give us an insight in<strong>to</strong> the salaries and benefits on offer in the profession.<br />
As accounting and finance continues <strong>to</strong><br />
add significant value <strong>to</strong> the wider business,<br />
professionals starting out in their careers<br />
will need <strong>to</strong> develop commercial awareness,<br />
a willingness <strong>to</strong> learn and a can-do attitude<br />
in order <strong>to</strong> progress – this is particularly<br />
important for graduates looking <strong>to</strong> advance in<br />
the financial services industry.<br />
Changing regulation and reporting standards<br />
in accounting and finance, and changes <strong>to</strong><br />
limited company taxable benefits, will continue<br />
<strong>to</strong> drive demand for qualified accountants who<br />
can help organisations remain compliant. For<br />
graduates looking <strong>to</strong> develop their careers,<br />
evaluating the opportunities that are beyond<br />
pure financial accounting will ensure long-term<br />
career opportunities.<br />
Technology expertise and know-how are also<br />
valuable skills in strong demand. Finance<br />
transformation and improving/upgrading<br />
systems will affect hiring throughout 2017, as<br />
finance direc<strong>to</strong>rs turn <strong>to</strong> temporary employees<br />
<strong>to</strong> support them through the change process.<br />
This can serve as a valuable opportunity for<br />
graduates looking <strong>to</strong> get a foot in the door, or<br />
those looking for a challenge <strong>to</strong> support the<br />
next step in their careers.<br />
Starting salaries for accountancy and finance<br />
roles are predicted <strong>to</strong> rise on average by 2.9%.<br />
Assistant management/financial accountants<br />
are seeing higher than average rises in both<br />
SMEs and large companies. Part-qualified<br />
candidates who are looking <strong>to</strong> advance and<br />
progress with the same company are seeing<br />
their starting salary offers increase. •<br />
Since 1950, Robert Half has produced Salary <strong>Guide</strong>s <strong>to</strong><br />
offer business owners, hiring managers and professionals<br />
information on prevailing starting salaries in their geographic<br />
areas and insight in<strong>to</strong> the latest employment trends.<br />
Information in the Salary <strong>Guide</strong> is based on the thousands<br />
of job searches, negotiations and placements managed each<br />
year by Robert Half’s recruitment consultants, along with the<br />
company’s ongoing surveys of executives.<br />
2017 UK SALARIES<br />
Roles<br />
Salary range<br />
Assistant Management/Financial Accountant (SME) £19,250-27,500<br />
Assistant Management/Financial Accountant (Large company) £21,000-32,000<br />
Technical Accountant (NQ-3 years’ PQE)* £56,000-78,000<br />
Technical Accountant (4-7 years’ PQE)* £72,000-98,750<br />
Data is extracted from the Robert Half 2017 Salary <strong>Guide</strong>. Download the full guide at www.roberthalf.co.uk/salary-guide<br />
*NQ - Newly qualified. PQE - Post-qualification experience<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
15
EDUCATION & SKILLS<br />
Businesses and organisations need people with varied backgrounds, interests and<br />
knowledge <strong>to</strong> help them become as successful as possible. There are many ways <strong>to</strong><br />
become a chartered accountant, so whether you’re a graduate, a school leaver or a<br />
professional looking <strong>to</strong> move industry, there is a route for you.<br />
Do I need an A level in maths?<br />
No. You need <strong>to</strong> be comfortable with numbers.<br />
Employers look for students with maths at<br />
GCSE level at grade B or above, but do not<br />
require it at A level.<br />
What grades do I need?<br />
ICAEW’s entry requirements relate <strong>to</strong> your<br />
school, college or other relevant qualifications<br />
and full details can be found at<br />
icaew.com/careers. While employers are looking<br />
for applicants with a good academic his<strong>to</strong>ry,<br />
employability skills are just as important. Check<br />
your chosen employer’s website for their<br />
specific requirements before you apply.<br />
Finding your place<br />
You can start the ACA as an independent<br />
student, but we recommend you secure a<br />
training agreement with an authorised employer<br />
as soon as you can. These firms must meet<br />
strict standards <strong>to</strong> train ACA students, meaning<br />
you’ll benefit from a first-rate employer who is<br />
committed <strong>to</strong> giving you support and guidance<br />
throughout your training. Securing a training<br />
agreement early on also means that you’ll be<br />
paid a competitive salary while training.<br />
Employability skills<br />
Recruiters look for a broad range of personal<br />
skills, not just academic ability. Having<br />
Great chartered accountants<br />
are able <strong>to</strong> communicate<br />
complex financial information<br />
and advice <strong>to</strong> colleagues,<br />
managers and clients in an<br />
easy <strong>to</strong> understand way.<br />
demonstrated your sharp mind, you’ll also need<br />
<strong>to</strong> show that you have the right character and<br />
outlook. Part of this means being good with<br />
people (particularly clients), at ease with numbers<br />
and interested in the way an organisation’s<br />
financial matters impact on performance.<br />
As well as being independent, confident and<br />
outgoing, employers are looking for candidates<br />
<strong>to</strong> possess the following skills:<br />
PEOPLE SKILLS<br />
Great chartered accountants are able <strong>to</strong><br />
communicate complex financial information<br />
and advice <strong>to</strong> colleagues, managers and clients<br />
in an easy <strong>to</strong> understand way.<br />
Improve your people skills by putting yourself<br />
in<strong>to</strong> situations that require lots of interaction<br />
with people from a wide range of backgrounds,<br />
abilities and cultures. Volunteering and<br />
part-time jobs give you access <strong>to</strong> lots of<br />
people from different generations, levels and<br />
experiences, all of which helps <strong>to</strong> develop your<br />
communication skills.<br />
TEAM WORKING<br />
Knowing when <strong>to</strong> operate as a team member or<br />
a team leader is vital, as is the ability <strong>to</strong> support<br />
and motivate others <strong>to</strong> achieve common goals.<br />
Team working skills can be gained and<br />
demonstrated through any societies or teams<br />
you are part of. Think about what made your<br />
team successful and highlight your contribution<br />
<strong>to</strong> that. Keep track of any actions you <strong>to</strong>ok that<br />
resulted in the overall success of the team for<br />
future job applications and interviews.<br />
DECISION MAKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING<br />
Being able <strong>to</strong> research, collate, analyse and<br />
interpret data from a range of sources helps<br />
chartered accountants <strong>to</strong> make sound, ethical<br />
business decisions.<br />
16 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EDUCATION & SKILLS<br />
Problem solving is all about using logic, as<br />
well as imagination, <strong>to</strong> make sense of your<br />
situation and come up with an intelligent<br />
solution. Examples of problem solving can be<br />
taken from and applied <strong>to</strong> all aspects of your<br />
life. Consider mistakes that you have rectified<br />
in the past and what you would do differently<br />
in the future. When it comes <strong>to</strong> communicating<br />
your problem-solving ability the most<br />
important thing is <strong>to</strong> present the problem and<br />
the actions you <strong>to</strong>ok.<br />
PROFESSIONALISM<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> accountants are highly respected<br />
for behaving professionally and conducting<br />
business ethically at all times.<br />
Presenting a professional image doesn’t mean<br />
sacrificing your own personality. It means you<br />
should always be aware of how your behaviour<br />
may be viewed by others and ensure you<br />
always take the best course of action for both<br />
yourself and your employer. Professionalism<br />
also includes how you treat your colleagues<br />
– superiors, peers and all those around you<br />
in your place of work. It is very important <strong>to</strong><br />
respect all individuals in the workplace at every<br />
stage in your career.<br />
For more on workplace etiquette:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/career-advice<br />
Even at entry level, employers will expect<br />
applicants <strong>to</strong> be computer literate. This is one<br />
area where first impressions count.<br />
The majority of employers now take online<br />
applications so the first example they will see<br />
of your IT skills will be your application or CV.<br />
Make sure there are no spelling mistakes, don’t<br />
just rely on spell check, get someone <strong>to</strong> proof<br />
read it for you <strong>to</strong>o. This will show an employer<br />
you have a keen attention <strong>to</strong> detail. •<br />
COMMERCIAL AWARENESS<br />
By being commercially aware, chartered<br />
accountants are able <strong>to</strong> think creatively about<br />
problems <strong>to</strong> identify solutions and give their<br />
organisation the competitive edge. Having<br />
an understanding of an employer’s business<br />
will show them that you have a grasp of their<br />
market. Demonstrating knowledge of an<br />
employer’s competi<strong>to</strong>rs helps you recognise<br />
the challenges they come up against. It will<br />
make you better equipped <strong>to</strong> make decisions<br />
for them. Go the extra mile and sign up for<br />
industry news in your chosen sec<strong>to</strong>r, follow<br />
employers on Twitter and LinkedIn and set<br />
up key word searches. All of this will be great<br />
preparation for an interview.<br />
IT SKILLS<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> accountants have well-rounded<br />
technical skills, keep up <strong>to</strong> date with<br />
technology and are able <strong>to</strong> use it <strong>to</strong> solve<br />
problems and develop strategic advice.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc 17
CHOOSING THE RIGHT EMPLOYER<br />
Deciding what type of employer you would like <strong>to</strong> work for is a difficult decision and<br />
one of those important choices that you have <strong>to</strong> make when you start looking for your<br />
first graduate role. The accountancy profession boasts a wide variety of employers. so<br />
read on <strong>to</strong> help narrow down which type is best for you.<br />
Different sec<strong>to</strong>rs all have their own advantages<br />
and disadvantages: it’s down <strong>to</strong> you <strong>to</strong><br />
decide what suits your personality and career<br />
aspirations best.<br />
Ask yourself – what does success in my career<br />
look like? Does it mean a large salary? Working<br />
for a multi-national firm with opportunities<br />
for overseas secondment? Long-term job<br />
security or the opportunity <strong>to</strong> specialise in an<br />
interesting field? Try and consider as many<br />
fac<strong>to</strong>rs as possible when defining what success<br />
looks like for you. Most employers in the<br />
industry pay competitive salaries, so what is it<br />
that you really want <strong>to</strong> achieve?<br />
Becoming successful in your career requires<br />
working in the right role, with the right<br />
employer, for the right salary. Sometimes these<br />
employers can be small companies, charities or<br />
new start-ups.<br />
Here are a few things you should consider<br />
when choosing your employer:<br />
• What are the organisation’s values – do<br />
they fit with your own?<br />
• What is the organisation’s culture and<br />
work environment like?<br />
• Do you fully understand the opportunity<br />
you are being offered? Does it fit with<br />
what you are looking for?<br />
• Is there a structured training programme?<br />
What support will you get through training?<br />
• What will you be doing day <strong>to</strong> day?<br />
• What could the career journey look like<br />
at that organisation? Are there structured<br />
progression routes?<br />
Where can you train?<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants train and<br />
work in a variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs and in all sizes<br />
of organisation. There is no such thing as a<br />
typical employer: there are a diverse range<br />
of opportunities on offer. While they all offer<br />
something different, all ICAEW authorised<br />
employers have <strong>to</strong> meet strict training<br />
standards. This means that no matter what<br />
organisation, sec<strong>to</strong>r or location you choose <strong>to</strong><br />
work in, you can be confident you will be getting<br />
the highest standard of training possible.<br />
It is important <strong>to</strong> consider the industry sec<strong>to</strong>r<br />
you want <strong>to</strong> work in, as each will offer different<br />
experiences and suit different skills and attributes:<br />
18 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
CHOOSING THE RIGHT EMPLOYER<br />
• Professional services and public practice<br />
• Business and financial services<br />
• Charity<br />
• Not-for-profit.<br />
In addition, you should also think carefully<br />
about the size of the organisation; small and<br />
large organisations can offer very different<br />
opportunities. You may be looking <strong>to</strong> become a<br />
specialist in a particular service line or perhaps a<br />
broader experience is what you are looking for.<br />
Finally, there is the important matter of<br />
location. London is one of the most vibrant<br />
cities in the world and a popular choice for<br />
graduates. However, there are <strong>to</strong>wns and cities<br />
all over the UK offering a rich mix of cultural<br />
and social experiences in addition <strong>to</strong> a range<br />
of great graduate vacancies. Opportunities<br />
are not just limited <strong>to</strong> the UK, you can find<br />
ICAEW-authorised employers in a range of<br />
international locations including across Europe,<br />
the Middle East, Africa, South East Asia and<br />
China, <strong>to</strong> name just a few.<br />
Find an employer<br />
Don’t delay your search. Employers advertise<br />
a range of internship, placement and graduate<br />
opportunities, which you can search by location<br />
and type, so you’re bound <strong>to</strong> find an opportunity<br />
that’s right for you. Employers’ websites contain<br />
useful information and hints about their<br />
recruitment processes and the roles available.<br />
If you’ve already found an employer who you<br />
want <strong>to</strong> train with who isn’t authorised, don’t<br />
worry. ICAEW can help your employer <strong>to</strong><br />
become authorised <strong>to</strong> train you for the ACA. It<br />
is a straightforward process which is also free<br />
of charge for the employer. Ask your employer<br />
<strong>to</strong> visit icaew.com/trainaca <strong>to</strong> find out more or<br />
<strong>to</strong> arrange for one of our team <strong>to</strong> visit.<br />
Beyond training<br />
Three years training may seem like a long<br />
time, but the integrated approach of the<br />
ACA means you get the best of both worlds;<br />
real life experience of the workplace and a<br />
globally-recognised qualification. Whatever<br />
size or type of organisation you choose <strong>to</strong><br />
train with, your career opportunities are<br />
endless. Once qualified, you will have the<br />
flexibility <strong>to</strong> shape your future career around<br />
your interests and aspirations. You’ll be able <strong>to</strong><br />
move between organisations, sec<strong>to</strong>rs and even<br />
countries, throughout your career.<br />
In the meantime, it’s up <strong>to</strong> you <strong>to</strong> explore<br />
the opportunities and choose which suits<br />
you best! If you want <strong>to</strong> search for the latest<br />
opportunities, visit icaewtrainingvacancies.com<br />
or www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> Employer Glossary<br />
An Authorised Training Employer (ATE) works with the ICAEW <strong>to</strong> provide training <strong>to</strong><br />
ACA students. There are 3,500 worldwide.<br />
The ‘Big Four’: refers <strong>to</strong> the four biggest international audit firms. These are currently, in<br />
order of size, Deloitte, PwC, EY and KPMG.<br />
SMEs: This stands for ‘small and medium-sized enterprises’ and refers <strong>to</strong> companies with<br />
up <strong>to</strong> 250 employees.<br />
Public sec<strong>to</strong>r (not be confused with public practice): organisations owned and operated<br />
by the government and provide services for its citizens. Examples include the Ministry of<br />
Defence, Wales Audit Office and the Department for Work and Pensions.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc 19
INTERNSHIPS & WORK EXPERIENCE<br />
Work experience has become an integral part of graduate recruitment for many<br />
leading employers. According <strong>to</strong> the High Fliers report The Graduate Market in<br />
2017, more than a third of employers warned that candidates with no previous<br />
work experience would struggle <strong>to</strong> succeed in their graduate recruitment process,<br />
regardless of their academic achievements.<br />
Within the UK’s 100 best-known and most<br />
successful employers alone, 1,914 work<br />
experience places were on offer for 2017.<br />
This is a slight dip from last year, making the<br />
field more competitive, but there are still a<br />
wide variety of opportunities available. You<br />
simply need <strong>to</strong> stand out from your peers and<br />
promote yourself in the best possible way.<br />
Work experience is a great way <strong>to</strong> show<br />
employers you have the interest and ability<br />
<strong>to</strong> work as a chartered accountant. The<br />
experience can give you an understanding of<br />
the industry and help you <strong>to</strong> decide whether<br />
or not this is the career for you, as well as<br />
looking great on your CV and possibly helping<br />
you secure a graduate position. In fact, many<br />
employers now see work experience as the<br />
most reliable way <strong>to</strong> find candidates for their<br />
graduate vacancies.<br />
The recruitment process you go through <strong>to</strong><br />
secure a work experience position is similar <strong>to</strong><br />
applying for graduate positions. This means<br />
you could already be part-way <strong>to</strong> securing a<br />
graduate position by the time you start your<br />
placement or internship.<br />
What’s on offer?<br />
The two main types of work experience are<br />
internships and placements. Placements, also<br />
known as ‘a year in industry’ or ‘a sandwich<br />
year’, are opportunities available with specific<br />
degrees <strong>to</strong> take a year out of studying <strong>to</strong> work<br />
for a company in a related industry. Internships,<br />
on the other hand, usually last 6-12 weeks, are<br />
not linked <strong>to</strong> a degree course and are normally<br />
undertaken in the summer months.<br />
PLACEMENTS<br />
Some accounting, finance and business degree<br />
courses will give students the option <strong>to</strong> take<br />
a placement year as part of the degree. Some<br />
firms local <strong>to</strong> universities may offer placements,<br />
You could be part-way <strong>to</strong><br />
securing a graduate position<br />
by the time you start your<br />
placement or internship.<br />
especially if the school of study has good<br />
business links. Larger national employers may<br />
offer these programmes <strong>to</strong>o. Placement years<br />
can help you <strong>to</strong>:<br />
• Gain invaluable industry experience<br />
• Get a greater understanding of the<br />
graduate recruitment process<br />
• Apply the theory from your degree and<br />
increase your subject knowledge<br />
• Earn money <strong>to</strong> support yourself through<br />
your studies<br />
• Build employability skills and help secure<br />
a job post-graduation.<br />
Most universities that offer placement years<br />
will have a dedicated department <strong>to</strong> assist your<br />
placement search, but students can also search<br />
for and contact employers directly.<br />
INTERNSHIPS<br />
Formal internships are popular among<br />
students, as they can provide up <strong>to</strong> 12 weeks<br />
of experience, and they are usually completed<br />
over the summer holidays. Larger firms often<br />
have formal programmes available. In the<br />
past, these have usually been reserved for<br />
penultimate year students, however the High<br />
Fliers report suggests that employers are<br />
now almost as likely <strong>to</strong> be targeting first year<br />
students when promoting their opportunities.<br />
In fact, 83% of employers held events in<br />
2016/17 specifically targeted at first years. If<br />
you are interested in an internship, the key is <strong>to</strong><br />
research and apply early: the ideal time <strong>to</strong> find<br />
out about application deadlines is during your<br />
first year of university.<br />
20 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
INTERNSHIPS & WORK EXPERIENCE<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> internships are usually paid,<br />
but smaller firms may offer shorter, unpaid<br />
internships <strong>to</strong> individual students which can be<br />
equally as useful. Some larger firms also offer<br />
taster/insight days and weeks.<br />
Alternative types of work experience<br />
In <strong>to</strong>day’s competitive market you need <strong>to</strong><br />
create every possible advantage for yourself <strong>to</strong><br />
stand out from the crowd. If you haven’t been<br />
able <strong>to</strong> secure any formal work experience in<br />
chartered accountancy, have you considered…<br />
• Volunteering as a treasurer for a<br />
university club or society? This<br />
experience could prove useful in an<br />
interview situation and on a CV. It<br />
demonstrates <strong>to</strong> employers that you<br />
will have experience of budgeting, basic<br />
accounts and expenditure. It will show<br />
that you can balance work, study and<br />
outside interests as well as hold a position<br />
of trust, accountability and authority.<br />
• Your part-time job? Employers always<br />
look for cus<strong>to</strong>mer-facing experience, as<br />
it is crucial <strong>to</strong> an accountancy role. You<br />
could also ask <strong>to</strong> be involved in company<br />
s<strong>to</strong>ck takes. Okay, no one likes working<br />
late but putting this on your CV shows<br />
some of the key skills required for an<br />
audit and shows that you are committed,<br />
able <strong>to</strong> take on extra responsibility<br />
and have a good understanding of a<br />
commercial business.<br />
• The relevance of your gap year<br />
experience? If you have travelled,<br />
maybe taught English abroad, think<br />
about how this could benefit a future<br />
employer. You can work across cultures,<br />
work alone or as part of a team, meet<br />
different people and possibly speak<br />
foreign languages.<br />
While internships, work experience and<br />
placements are useful in securing a training<br />
agreement, other experience you gain can also<br />
benefit future employers with transferable skills<br />
and commercial awareness. •<br />
Source: The Graduate Market in 2017 by High Fliers<br />
TOP PLACES TO FIND INTERNSHIPS AND PLACEMENTS<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
Find and apply for internships, placements and insight days. You can also find<br />
accountancy company profiles and graduate jobs here.<br />
icaewtrainingvacancies.com<br />
ICAEW provide an online portal detailing many internships, placements and work<br />
experience opportunities.<br />
University careers centres<br />
Your careers service will be able <strong>to</strong> help you with CVs as well as give advice about<br />
applying for work experience. They may also know of firms looking for dedicated students.<br />
Campus events and visits<br />
Make the most of employers visiting your campus. Many chartered accountancy firms,<br />
along with ICAEW, will hold presentations, networking sessions and exhibit at university<br />
careers fairs.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc 21
APPLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS<br />
The most successful accountants will possess the ability <strong>to</strong> communicate with peers,<br />
cus<strong>to</strong>mers, external business partners and inves<strong>to</strong>rs alike, coupled with an acute eye for<br />
detail and key technical accounting knowledge. So, employers will be looking for you <strong>to</strong><br />
demonstrate your professional qualities and your technical competencies both on your CV<br />
and in person at interview <strong>to</strong> prove <strong>to</strong> them why you are the best candidate for the job.<br />
When starting your search for a trainee<br />
accountancy role, firstly it is important <strong>to</strong><br />
identify the skills and competencies that you<br />
have and research the organisations and jobs<br />
that you are best suited <strong>to</strong>. Decide if you are<br />
looking <strong>to</strong> gain broad practice experience, or<br />
specialise in a particular area, <strong>to</strong> know where<br />
<strong>to</strong> start your search. You should also be aware<br />
of the fac<strong>to</strong>rs which are most important <strong>to</strong> you,<br />
for example, location, salary and benefits, and<br />
workplace culture including flexible working or<br />
working hours. It’s recommended <strong>to</strong> possess<br />
an idea of your career aims and objectives for<br />
your first role in the sec<strong>to</strong>r. However, most<br />
important is the desire and enthusiasm <strong>to</strong> work<br />
in the accounting and finance field, as showing<br />
passion for your choice of work will make a<br />
huge difference in an interview.<br />
The Hays UK Salary & Recruiting Trends 2017<br />
report found that 80% of finance employers<br />
plan <strong>to</strong> hire this year, and that 60% of finance<br />
employees plan <strong>to</strong> move jobs, so here’s how<br />
you can stand out <strong>to</strong> those employers planning<br />
<strong>to</strong> expand their teams:<br />
CV preparation<br />
Before starting your search, ensure that your<br />
CV is up <strong>to</strong> date with your experience and<br />
training and any professional qualifications that<br />
you already hold or are working <strong>to</strong>wards. If<br />
you do not have prior accountancy experience,<br />
highlight areas of your previous employment<br />
or studies that show your analytical<br />
ability, numeracy, attention <strong>to</strong> detail and<br />
communication skills, <strong>to</strong> demonstrate the key<br />
characteristics employers will be looking for.<br />
Show the areas you have excelled at in terms<br />
of study, particularly if this is directly relevant<br />
<strong>to</strong> the role you are applying for.<br />
Make sure you also update any voluntary<br />
or extra-curricular activities <strong>to</strong>o – being the<br />
treasurer of a committee at university is<br />
Research the organisation that<br />
you are interviewing with in<br />
detail and check their website<br />
<strong>to</strong> familiarise yourself with their<br />
service offerings, structure and<br />
recent news.<br />
relevant when interviewing for a graduate or<br />
trainee job in finance. Remember that your CV<br />
is your first sales pitch <strong>to</strong> a potential employer<br />
so ensure there are no spelling or grammatical<br />
errors and it is professionally presented.<br />
Choosing a clear simple font size and type, and<br />
spacing, are all important fac<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Your CV and application need <strong>to</strong> be specifically<br />
tailored <strong>to</strong> each individual role. This means<br />
ensuring that you demonstrate all the required<br />
competencies as outlined in the job and<br />
person descriptions. These could include:<br />
• Attention <strong>to</strong> detail<br />
• Excellent communication skills<br />
• Problem solving<br />
• Delivering excellent service<br />
• Time management.<br />
You may not need <strong>to</strong> change your CV<br />
completely each time you apply <strong>to</strong> a role,<br />
sometimes it can be as simple as re-ordering<br />
the content so that the most relevant<br />
experience and skills come higher up the list<br />
of bullet points for one job application than<br />
they do for another – human nature is <strong>to</strong> read<br />
the <strong>to</strong>p part of any content and speed read or<br />
scan the remainder. Make your points clear.<br />
Remember that the first page of your CV<br />
has the biggest impact so the most relevant<br />
information <strong>to</strong> your job application should<br />
be here. Postal address is not usually a critical<br />
22 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
APPLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS<br />
fac<strong>to</strong>r in terms of initial decision <strong>to</strong> see you for<br />
an interview, as it will be based on skills and<br />
competencies and how well these are displayed.<br />
Social media<br />
Before your interview, any social media<br />
platforms you use should be up <strong>to</strong> date, in<br />
particular your LinkedIn profile which should<br />
reflect the information you have on your<br />
CV. LinkedIn is a great <strong>to</strong>ol <strong>to</strong> help with your<br />
research and glean additional information<br />
about the organisation you are applying for.<br />
It’s also a good way <strong>to</strong> connect with industry<br />
professionals and get involved with relevant<br />
industry discussions <strong>to</strong> help demonstrate your<br />
passion for the profession. Many employers<br />
use LinkedIn or other forms of social media in<br />
their vetting process so it is important that all<br />
information is correct and you are aware of what<br />
information is available about you online. If you<br />
consider social media <strong>to</strong> be there for your social<br />
life, not your career, check your privacy settings<br />
and make sure any potential employers will only<br />
see what you want them <strong>to</strong> see about you.<br />
The interview<br />
If you are successful in your application, you<br />
will then be invited <strong>to</strong> an interview. Creating a<br />
great first impression at interview is important.<br />
It is also an opportunity <strong>to</strong> demonstrate your<br />
attention <strong>to</strong> detail and analytical ability and of<br />
course your interest in the job and organisation.<br />
INTERVIEW PREPARATION<br />
Preparation is key <strong>to</strong> make a good first<br />
impression. Research the organisation that you<br />
are interviewing with in detail and check their<br />
website <strong>to</strong> familiarise yourself with their service<br />
offerings, structure and recent news.<br />
Interviewers usually ask some competency-based<br />
questions and you will have the opportunity<br />
<strong>to</strong> discuss examples of where you have shown<br />
qualities outlined in the job description. You<br />
should have a number of relevant examples<br />
prepared in advance from your studies or<br />
previous part-time employment demonstrating,<br />
for example, when you met a deadline,<br />
communicated well and overcame an obstacle.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc 23
APPLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS<br />
Competency-based interviews are structured<br />
so that each question targets a specific key<br />
skill or capability from the job specification.<br />
You will be asked questions relating <strong>to</strong> your<br />
behaviour in specific circumstances, which you<br />
will need <strong>to</strong> back up with practical examples.<br />
Try and have more than one example ready <strong>to</strong><br />
use in case you are asked <strong>to</strong> provide a second<br />
example, which can happen.<br />
To be an accountant, you have <strong>to</strong> be<br />
exceptionally organised and able <strong>to</strong> work<br />
<strong>to</strong> strict deadlines whilst having technical<br />
numeracy skills and developing communication<br />
and people skills. If you are going <strong>to</strong> be a future<br />
leader, the earlier you start <strong>to</strong> develop these<br />
skills, the better. Other skills employers will be<br />
looking for are attention <strong>to</strong> detail, commercial<br />
awareness and ability <strong>to</strong> work in a team.<br />
Learn <strong>to</strong> demonstrate your skills by using the<br />
STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method.<br />
This means setting the scene, explaining how<br />
you handled the situation by placing the<br />
emphasis on your personal role and skills, and<br />
detailing the outcome or result.<br />
STAR Method<br />
S: Explain the situation<br />
T: What tasks were required of you<br />
A: The action you <strong>to</strong>ok<br />
R: The result, impact and value your<br />
actions achieved.<br />
Even if a company follows a different interview<br />
format, knowing how <strong>to</strong> answer questions in<br />
a concise way that really sells your experience<br />
is the key <strong>to</strong> success. With practice and<br />
preparation, the ability <strong>to</strong> structure your<br />
answers correctly will become second nature,<br />
allowing you <strong>to</strong> concentrate on letting your<br />
personality and enthusiasm shine at interview.<br />
Good preparation will also show your<br />
commitment <strong>to</strong> the job and provide evidence<br />
of your organisational skills.<br />
24 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
APPLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS<br />
Conducting your interview<br />
in an engaging way will<br />
demonstrate the personal<br />
characteristics and ‘can do’<br />
attitude that are essential for<br />
the very best accountants.<br />
ON ARRIVAL<br />
Start off on the front foot by arriving for your<br />
interview 5-10 minutes ahead of schedule.<br />
Plan ahead if you haven’t been <strong>to</strong> the location<br />
before and even do a trial run if necessary.<br />
Dress appropriately and remain polite and<br />
courteous <strong>to</strong> anyone you meet and greet your<br />
interviewer with a professional handshake and<br />
friendly smile. If you are unsure of the dress<br />
code, call ahead <strong>to</strong> confirm this, but smart<br />
business attire is always the best bet.<br />
REMAIN CALM AND PROFESSIONAL<br />
Staying calm in your interview will give your<br />
interviewer an insight in<strong>to</strong> how you would<br />
deal with pressure, and show how you would<br />
deal with deadlines in the financial calendar.<br />
Your communication in your interview will also<br />
show your potential <strong>to</strong> deal with clients and<br />
colleagues alike. Conducting your interview in<br />
an engaging way will demonstrate the personal<br />
characteristics and ‘can do’ attitude that are<br />
essential for the very best accountants. Be<br />
mindful of your body language; your posture,<br />
eye contact and gestures can show a lot about<br />
your confidence and mind-set.<br />
ASK QUESTIONS<br />
Prepare questions <strong>to</strong> ask at the end of your<br />
interview that demonstrate you have done<br />
your research and are genuinely interested<br />
For more interview tips head <strong>to</strong>:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/career-advice<br />
in the job and organisation. If the interview<br />
has followed a strict format, asking questions<br />
is a way <strong>to</strong> get across experience that you<br />
may otherwise not be asked about. If it feels<br />
appropriate, ask if they have any reservations<br />
about your application – this may seem<br />
daunting, but could give you the opportunity<br />
<strong>to</strong> overcome these concerns.<br />
CONSIDER YOUR EXIT<br />
Remember that your interview doesn’t end<br />
until you are out of the door and that the last<br />
30 seconds of an interview are just as important<br />
as the first – ensure you leave a positive<br />
impression on your interviewer. Leave with<br />
a professional handshake, make eye contact<br />
and thank your interviewer for their time. And<br />
finally, remember <strong>to</strong> be polite and courteous <strong>to</strong><br />
all employees you encounter even if they have<br />
not been involved in your interview process!<br />
The follow up<br />
Following your interview, don’t forget <strong>to</strong> follow<br />
up with your recruitment consultant <strong>to</strong> update<br />
them with your feedback and also <strong>to</strong> receive<br />
any feedback your interviewer may have<br />
provided <strong>to</strong>o.<br />
I hope that you use this advice <strong>to</strong> take the next<br />
step in your finance career and I wish you the best<br />
of luck in your next job application or interview. •<br />
Karen Young is a Direc<strong>to</strong>r for Hays <strong>Accountancy</strong> & Finance<br />
in the UK. Hays <strong>Accountancy</strong> & Finance operates from nearly<br />
100 offices, with over 400 consultants working with hundreds<br />
of employers <strong>to</strong> match the right finance professionals with the<br />
right organisation. www.hays.co.uk/accountancy<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc 25
INTERNSHIP PROFILES<br />
Summer Intern – PKF Littlejohn 28<br />
Industrial Placement Student – Menzies 30<br />
ABS Summer Intern – Smith & Williamson 32<br />
SENIOR PROFILES<br />
Manager, Accounts and Audit – Saffery Champness 40<br />
Senior Manager, Audit and Assurance – Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves 42
GRADUATE PROFILES<br />
Audit Senior – Hillier Hopkins 34<br />
Trainee Accountant – Blick Rothenberg 36<br />
Trainee Accountant – Alliotts 38
SUMMER INTERN<br />
PKF LITTLEJOHN<br />
JESSICA DANIEL<br />
UNIVERSITY OF SURREY<br />
BSc ACCOUNTING & FINANCE<br />
PKF LITTLEJOHN<br />
SUMMER INTERNSHIP<br />
LONDON<br />
“What attracted me<br />
<strong>to</strong> the role was the<br />
amount of exposure<br />
available <strong>to</strong> an intern.<br />
”<br />
Why did you choose <strong>to</strong> do an internship?<br />
People often think that a degree in Accounting<br />
and Finance has one career path. However, in<br />
reality there are many different industries and<br />
specialisms you can pursue. I was keen <strong>to</strong> gain<br />
practical experience, learn more about the<br />
different options available <strong>to</strong> me and get an<br />
insight in<strong>to</strong> the day <strong>to</strong> day role.<br />
How did it tie in with your overall career plan?<br />
Experience of any kind is valuable when<br />
applying for jobs, as it allows you <strong>to</strong> develop<br />
key skills and show potential employers your<br />
abilities. As a result of my internship, I knew<br />
exactly what career path I wanted <strong>to</strong> take.<br />
I was keen <strong>to</strong> gain practical<br />
experience, learn more about<br />
the different options available<br />
<strong>to</strong> me and get an insight in<strong>to</strong><br />
the day <strong>to</strong> day role.<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
Any advice?<br />
The application process consisted of mock<br />
assessments, a telephone interview and a<br />
face <strong>to</strong> face interview with a Partner. In my<br />
experience, arranging mock interviews with<br />
I unders<strong>to</strong>od how important<br />
it was <strong>to</strong> ask questions and be<br />
proactive; interning is all about<br />
learning and acquiring new skills.<br />
career centers and family or friends helps<br />
you build confidence and identify areas for<br />
improvement. The most challenging part of<br />
online assessments is <strong>to</strong> work well under time<br />
pressure, so it is important <strong>to</strong> get as much<br />
practice as possible.<br />
What attracted you <strong>to</strong> your internship?<br />
Being a medium-sized company; PKF<br />
Littlejohn offers employees a variety of career<br />
opportunities. This ranges from advising clients<br />
across the financial industry <strong>to</strong> working with<br />
not-for-profit entities. What attracted me <strong>to</strong><br />
the role was the amount of exposure available<br />
<strong>to</strong> an intern, by interacting directly with clients<br />
and working on current projects.<br />
What were the most important things you<br />
learned from the internship?<br />
Firstly, I unders<strong>to</strong>od how important it was <strong>to</strong><br />
ask questions and be proactive; interning is all<br />
about learning and acquiring new skills. Asking<br />
questions builds up confidence, and is the only<br />
28 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
INTERNSHIP PROFILES<br />
Several of my colleagues<br />
graduated with degrees<br />
in a variety of subjects,<br />
ranging from languages <strong>to</strong><br />
engineering, and are extremely<br />
well suited <strong>to</strong> their roles.<br />
way <strong>to</strong> gain real experience. Another important<br />
thing I learned was that you don’t need <strong>to</strong> have<br />
studied accounting <strong>to</strong> become an accountant.<br />
Several of my colleagues graduated with<br />
degrees in a variety of subjects, ranging from<br />
To apply for internship roles go <strong>to</strong>:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
languages <strong>to</strong> engineering, and are extremely<br />
well suited <strong>to</strong> their roles.<br />
Do you have any advice for someone<br />
seeking an internship?<br />
When applying for internships it is essential<br />
<strong>to</strong> research the organisation and familiarise<br />
yourself with the industry it operates in. As well<br />
as general information, it is also worth reading<br />
up on the latest news so you have something<br />
<strong>to</strong>pical <strong>to</strong> discuss in your interview. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
29
INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT STUDENT<br />
MENZIES<br />
RICHARD DAVIS<br />
EXETER UNIVERSITY<br />
BSc ACCOUNTING & FINANCE<br />
WITH INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT<br />
MENZIES<br />
EGHAM, SURREY<br />
“Once I graduate<br />
I will have a better<br />
understanding of<br />
what career path I<br />
would like <strong>to</strong> take.<br />
”<br />
Tell us about yourself<br />
I am an Accounting and Finance student at<br />
Exeter University and currently on a placement<br />
which makes up the third year of my four year<br />
course. I enjoy Martial arts (especially Jiu Jitsu),<br />
training in multiple styles/disciplines and I’m<br />
a keen pho<strong>to</strong>grapher. I’ve recently become<br />
a qualified scuba diver and I absolutely love<br />
travelling, last count I’m at 20 countries and<br />
I’m hoping <strong>to</strong> hit triple figures before I die. I<br />
believe in living life <strong>to</strong> the full which doesn’t<br />
involve an uninteresting, time-consuming and<br />
unrewarding job; I’m constantly assessing my<br />
happiness and striving <strong>to</strong> be the best I can be.<br />
If you’re looking for the perfect placement then<br />
hopefully you’ll want <strong>to</strong> hear what I have <strong>to</strong> say.<br />
Why did you choose <strong>to</strong> do a placement?<br />
There is a joke that me and my friends share<br />
about employers that are looking for someone<br />
aged 20-25 with 30 years’ experience; although<br />
clearly impossible, collectively we agree that<br />
work experience is key <strong>to</strong> career development<br />
and employability.<br />
When I was presented the option <strong>to</strong> do a<br />
placement as part of my degree, I remember<br />
thinking that not only will it give me valuable<br />
experience but it would also enable me <strong>to</strong> see<br />
how my theoretical knowledge translates in<strong>to</strong><br />
the working world. It adds something <strong>to</strong> your<br />
CV which makes you stand out from other<br />
candidates when applying for a job, so for me<br />
a placement was a no brainer!<br />
What attracted you <strong>to</strong> Menzies?<br />
I’m not one of those people who can be a<br />
small cog in a big machine, I couldn’t go in<strong>to</strong><br />
a firm knowing that I would never see the<br />
beginning or end of a job. This meant that I<br />
ruled out the biggest accounting firms from<br />
my search almost instantly. However, I wanted<br />
the exposure and range of work that a large<br />
firm would come across so I also ruled out<br />
small companies. From there I did my research<br />
in<strong>to</strong> accounting firms that are big enough <strong>to</strong><br />
get a variety of clients but also small enough<br />
that I would be able <strong>to</strong> be involved with every<br />
step of dealing with the client. During my<br />
search I came across Menzies and they seemed<br />
<strong>to</strong> capture everything I wanted my employer<br />
<strong>to</strong> have. Their focus on building a relationship<br />
with clients was exactly what I wanted.<br />
What are your main duties?<br />
I don’t think I have any main duties, not for<br />
I’m not one of those people<br />
who can be a small cog in a<br />
big machine. I couldn’t go in<strong>to</strong><br />
a firm knowing that I would<br />
never see the beginning or<br />
end of a job.<br />
30 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
INTERNSHIP PROFILES<br />
throughout the whole year anyway. As the<br />
placement involves working in three different<br />
departments, my role and duties are changing<br />
every few months. One week I could be, for<br />
example, preparing the tax return for a high<br />
net wealth individual, the next week I could be<br />
producing the accounts for his/her company.<br />
I do have main duties whilst I work within the<br />
respective departments, but when I switch<br />
departments these duties change. I couldn’t<br />
be happier about this; not only does it keep<br />
my role fresh, it also enables me <strong>to</strong> see every<br />
aspect of the business and how it all interlinks.<br />
Think about what you would<br />
like <strong>to</strong> achieve in your life, what<br />
your career goals are, and do<br />
some research in<strong>to</strong> what jobs<br />
will be able <strong>to</strong> get you there.<br />
As I will have <strong>to</strong> return <strong>to</strong> university for an<br />
additional year, the fact my role isn’t the same<br />
throughout the year means once I graduate I<br />
will have a better understanding of what career<br />
path I would like <strong>to</strong> take and what I would be<br />
expected <strong>to</strong> do in that role.<br />
What have been the most important things<br />
you have learned from the placement?<br />
The most important thing I have learned from<br />
my placement so far is that worrying about<br />
getting it wrong is always worse than actually<br />
getting it wrong. If you throw yourself in<strong>to</strong> the<br />
task and get it wrong then the worst thing that<br />
could happen is you get some constructive<br />
criticism back. More often than you think, you’ll<br />
be given a task that is beyond your capabilities,<br />
as your colleagues have never met you before<br />
and they will be trying <strong>to</strong> gauge your current<br />
knowledge. Taking an overcautious approach<br />
<strong>to</strong> things can lead <strong>to</strong> you starting <strong>to</strong> doubt<br />
your own abilities and I have seen this be the<br />
downfall for others in their career. Following on<br />
from this though, it is almost as important <strong>to</strong><br />
take the criticism and work on it. If you try your<br />
hardest and fail no one can really blame you,<br />
but if you keep making the same mistake over<br />
and over then it’s just going <strong>to</strong> come off badly<br />
for you. Don’t be afraid <strong>to</strong> fail and use that<br />
failure <strong>to</strong> better yourself.<br />
Do you have any advice for someone<br />
seeking an internship/placement?<br />
Know what you want and don’t be<br />
disheartened by failure. I know you have<br />
probably heard this a thousand times from<br />
every source you can think of, but they are not<br />
wrong. You have <strong>to</strong> know what you want and<br />
then begin <strong>to</strong> focus on that. I have a friend<br />
who applied <strong>to</strong> 60 placements and did not<br />
get a single one of them. Rather than put in a<br />
quality application for the few jobs she actually<br />
wanted, she tried <strong>to</strong> cover all her bases and it<br />
didn’t pay off.<br />
Think about what you would like <strong>to</strong> achieve in<br />
your life, what your career goals are, and do<br />
some research in<strong>to</strong> what jobs will be able <strong>to</strong> get<br />
you there. One quality application <strong>to</strong> your dream<br />
job, showing genuine enthusiasm <strong>to</strong>wards the<br />
role is worth over 100 applications. Saying that,<br />
don’t be disheartened if you don’t succeed<br />
first time. More often than you think it’s almost<br />
nothing that separates you from the candidate<br />
that got the job. I would 100% recommend<br />
emailing the recruiter asking for feedback about<br />
your application, as the majority of them are<br />
really nice people and will usually put aside<br />
five minutes of their time <strong>to</strong> tell you where you<br />
could have improved. Learn from your mistakes<br />
and try again, you will be able <strong>to</strong> get the perfect<br />
job if you put the time in <strong>to</strong> get it. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
31
ABS SUMMER INTERN<br />
SMITH & WILLIAMSON<br />
CHARLIE<br />
UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL<br />
BSc GEOGRAPHY<br />
SUMMER INTERNSHIP<br />
SMITH & WILLIAMSON<br />
LONDON<br />
“It is an experience I would<br />
strongly recommend <strong>to</strong><br />
anyone considering gaining<br />
an insight in<strong>to</strong> accountancy.<br />
”<br />
Why did you choose <strong>to</strong> do an internship?<br />
When searching for internships, Smith &<br />
Williamson’s appealed <strong>to</strong> me as it gave me<br />
the impression it would allow me <strong>to</strong> immerse<br />
myself in a business, providing important<br />
assistance <strong>to</strong> a variety of clients.<br />
The Assurance & Business Services (ABS)<br />
internship ran for six weeks and this proved <strong>to</strong><br />
be a perfect amount of time <strong>to</strong> achieve the goals<br />
I had laid out when I was looking for internships.<br />
What were your main duties?<br />
There was a good range of experiences,<br />
including visits out of the office <strong>to</strong> clients.<br />
Throughout the internship the work varied<br />
from day <strong>to</strong> day, whilst I was often booked<br />
on<strong>to</strong> a different job each week, no two days<br />
were the same; some were much busier than<br />
others though!<br />
The work ranged from checking accounts in the<br />
office <strong>to</strong> performing a variety of audit tests when<br />
out on site at a client. This gave me a great<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> experience what being a trainee<br />
audi<strong>to</strong>r on an external audit might be like and it<br />
was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed.<br />
Each of the clients I visited were businesses<br />
in completely different sec<strong>to</strong>rs and this<br />
provided a lot of variation in the work I<br />
performed, as well as giving me a good<br />
insight in<strong>to</strong> how the way in which businesses<br />
are run can differ massively.<br />
Throughout the internship I noticed a gradual<br />
increase in the level of responsibility I was handed<br />
with the work I was being asked <strong>to</strong> perform.<br />
The working environment was brilliant<br />
throughout the internship, both in the office<br />
and on site. The atmosphere is great with<br />
everybody at the company being <strong>to</strong>tally<br />
approachable and friendly right from the start.<br />
Each of the clients I visited<br />
were businesses in completely<br />
different sec<strong>to</strong>rs and this<br />
provided a lot of variation in<br />
the work I performed, as well as<br />
giving me a good insight in<strong>to</strong><br />
how the way in which businesses<br />
are run can differ massively.<br />
The atmosphere seemed like one I would<br />
enjoy being a part of straightaway when we<br />
were taken on an intern induction event <strong>to</strong><br />
go bowling. A small number of trainees from<br />
across the company came with us and this<br />
32 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
INTERNSHIP PROFILES<br />
The atmosphere is great with<br />
everybody at the company<br />
being <strong>to</strong>tally approachable and<br />
friendly right from the start.<br />
gave us a great initial opportunity <strong>to</strong> have a<br />
chat with them and understand what we might<br />
be getting up <strong>to</strong> and what we could possibly<br />
expect from the internship. I found that this<br />
event and the induction as a whole was a great<br />
opportunity for us <strong>to</strong> ease ourselves in<strong>to</strong> the<br />
internship without any worries.<br />
Do you have any advice for someone<br />
seeking an internship?<br />
On the whole the internship was a thoroughly<br />
enjoyable experience, which allowed me a<br />
wonderful insight in<strong>to</strong> accountancy by offering<br />
a range of experiences throughout the six<br />
weeks. It is an experience I would strongly<br />
recommend <strong>to</strong> anyone considering gaining an<br />
insight in<strong>to</strong> accountancy. •<br />
Find all employers with internships:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
33
AUDIT SENIOR<br />
HILLIER HOPKINS<br />
OLIVER HAMMOND<br />
LEEDS BECKETT UNIVERSITY<br />
BSc ACCOUNTING & FINANCE<br />
WATFORD<br />
“Adapting your<br />
communication style<br />
<strong>to</strong> meet different<br />
client needs, whilst still<br />
being you, is an asset.<br />
”<br />
Why did you choose a job in this sec<strong>to</strong>r?<br />
I was always interested in becoming an<br />
accountant from an early age at school. That,<br />
or a professional sportsman, which I soon<br />
realised wasn’t going <strong>to</strong> happen!<br />
Picking the right employer<br />
that suits you is crucial. Your<br />
training contract goes quickly<br />
if you work for a firm you feel<br />
comfortable with.<br />
I was continually drawn <strong>to</strong> numbers and<br />
had an analytical way of thinking. Every<br />
other profession I looked at led me back <strong>to</strong><br />
accountancy. Even in my school year book in<br />
Year 11, I said I wanted <strong>to</strong> be an accountant.<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
It was a bit daunting at first <strong>to</strong> know I had <strong>to</strong> get<br />
through telephone and face <strong>to</strong> face interviews<br />
with online assessments thrown in also.<br />
However, everyone was wonderful and<br />
welcoming and it was clear that Hillier Hopkins<br />
were interested in me as a person, rather than<br />
trying <strong>to</strong> fill a number quota. Some of the<br />
questions were certainly <strong>to</strong>ugh and probing,<br />
but if you are prepared and just be yourself,<br />
you won’t get thrown off.<br />
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting<br />
<strong>to</strong> get in<strong>to</strong> the industry?<br />
Picking the right employer that suits you is<br />
crucial. Your training contract goes quickly if you<br />
work for a firm you feel comfortable with and<br />
have the same values as. I liked the mid-tier size<br />
of Hillier Hopkins and the way that I was given<br />
responsibilities early on. They had confidence in<br />
me which in turn gave me confidence.<br />
Make sure you plan and put in the hours of study<br />
for the exams. If you have put in enough work<br />
and listened <strong>to</strong> the tu<strong>to</strong>rs, you will get through.<br />
Communication with the people you work with<br />
is a key element <strong>to</strong> the job role and gives great<br />
satisfaction. You will have <strong>to</strong> discuss issues<br />
with clients; relay information <strong>to</strong> Managers and<br />
Partners and supervise junior students.<br />
Be confident. There is always someone around<br />
<strong>to</strong> help you if you should falter. Listen and<br />
learn as much as you can about different<br />
client sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Make sure you plan and put in<br />
the hours of study for the exams.<br />
34 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
GRADUATE PROFILES<br />
Apart from an affinity for<br />
numbers, an ability <strong>to</strong> spot<br />
anomalies and check details<br />
saves time in the long run.<br />
different industries such as; charities, golf clubs,<br />
solici<strong>to</strong>rs, service organisations, manufacturers,<br />
construction and many more.<br />
The role has definitely changed over the<br />
course of the three year programme; starting<br />
with basic audit testing and accounts work<br />
What skills are useful?<br />
Apart from an affinity for numbers, an ability<br />
<strong>to</strong> spot anomalies and check details saves time<br />
in the long run. It helps <strong>to</strong> have reasonable IT<br />
skills, or at least be able <strong>to</strong> pick up new systems<br />
quickly. Hillier Hopkins is very people-focused<br />
and so adapting your communication style <strong>to</strong><br />
meet different client needs, whilst still being<br />
you, is an asset.<br />
What are your main duties?<br />
The benefit of working for a mid-tier firm is<br />
that I am not kept on site with one client for<br />
months on end. Audits last on average 1-2<br />
weeks, which has given me a broader range<br />
of experience across general and specialised<br />
client sec<strong>to</strong>rs. Clients can vary from small <strong>to</strong><br />
large companies and operate in a number of<br />
For practice tests head <strong>to</strong>:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/career-advice<br />
in different sections of the file. This then<br />
progressed <strong>to</strong> being able <strong>to</strong> carry out more<br />
independent work and going out <strong>to</strong> clients on<br />
my own. I have developed interpersonal skills<br />
through liaising with clients and my managers,<br />
<strong>to</strong> ensure deadlines are met. Towards the end<br />
of my contract I was confident in leading small<br />
teams of 2-3 on site and reviewing the work of<br />
juniors, giving detailed feedback. I was able <strong>to</strong><br />
complete a wide range of low <strong>to</strong> high risk audit<br />
testing and fully complete an audit file ready<br />
for a manager <strong>to</strong> review. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
35
TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT<br />
BLICK ROTHENBERG<br />
CHANIL PATEL<br />
UNIVERSITY OF EXETER<br />
BA GEOGRAPHY<br />
LONDON<br />
“You need <strong>to</strong> be a<br />
team player and have<br />
a willingness <strong>to</strong> learn.<br />
”<br />
Why Blick?<br />
Blick Rothenberg s<strong>to</strong>od out <strong>to</strong> me as a<br />
<strong>to</strong>p medium-size firm with a diverse client<br />
portfolio. I had already decided I did not want<br />
<strong>to</strong> apply <strong>to</strong> the ‘Big Four’ accountancy firms<br />
and felt that a trainee role at Blick Rothenberg<br />
would provide me with some excellent<br />
exposure <strong>to</strong> some really interesting clients.<br />
I knew that the combination of<br />
training, on-the-job learning<br />
and professional qualifications<br />
would create an excellent<br />
foundation for my career.<br />
There is a strong emphasis on training and<br />
personal development at the firm, meaning<br />
the jobs you are put on are often tailored <strong>to</strong><br />
provide experience in your areas of interest.<br />
Also, there are plenty of in-house training<br />
sessions which allow you <strong>to</strong> develop skills<br />
which cannot be learned from a book.<br />
Why did you choose a job in this profession?<br />
I wanted <strong>to</strong> train as a chartered accountant,<br />
as the qualification provides an excellent<br />
foundation for the world of business. I knew<br />
that the combination of training, on-the-job<br />
learning and professional qualifications would<br />
create an excellent foundation for my career.<br />
How did you get your job at<br />
Blick Rothenberg?<br />
I applied through the online application<br />
process, which has three stages. First there is<br />
an application form and some verbal, logical<br />
and numerical tests. Then, if successful, a video<br />
assessment and online test that you can do<br />
from home which saves travelling in<strong>to</strong> London<br />
and is a quick process. Then finally there is<br />
an assessment day where you get <strong>to</strong> meet<br />
partners at the firm and current trainees, as<br />
well as seeing the company. There was a quick<br />
turnaround in between the different stages and<br />
the process did not take long.<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
Any advice?<br />
The application process is straight forward and<br />
everyone is really friendly and knowledgeable.<br />
There is a strong emphasis<br />
on training and personal<br />
development at the firm.<br />
36 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
GRADUATE PROFILES<br />
As you progress through<br />
your training contract you will<br />
start <strong>to</strong> plan and lead small<br />
audit teams.<br />
The standout point for me was meeting with<br />
two partners during the interview process as it<br />
emphasised the firm’s commitment <strong>to</strong> people.<br />
What are your main duties?<br />
Initially you spend quite a lot of time working<br />
out at client sites, but as you progress through<br />
your training contract you will start <strong>to</strong> plan<br />
and lead small audit teams. We have a really<br />
interesting client base and most trainees<br />
will gain exposure <strong>to</strong> accounting, auditing,<br />
corporation tax and management advice. I have<br />
also been involved in some due diligence work<br />
which was really interesting. This is all combined<br />
with spending quite a bit of time formally<br />
attending technical training and studying at<br />
college for your professional qualification.<br />
Is it a 9-5 job?<br />
Generally there is a good work/life balance.<br />
There are busier times and quieter times and<br />
you have <strong>to</strong> plan your work and study carefully<br />
<strong>to</strong> ensure you get the balance right, particularly<br />
during the run up <strong>to</strong> examinations. There are<br />
also department socials every month where<br />
you get <strong>to</strong> relax and spend time with your<br />
colleagues more informally.<br />
To apply for graduate roles go <strong>to</strong>:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
What skills are useful in this profession?<br />
I feel that you need <strong>to</strong> be a team player and<br />
have a willingness <strong>to</strong> learn. Having not worked<br />
in this field prior <strong>to</strong> my training contract I<br />
initially had a steep learning curve, but this was<br />
made easier by the friendly and approachable<br />
colleagues around me. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
37
TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT<br />
ALLIOTTS<br />
LISA CHEN<br />
UNIVERSITY OF BATH<br />
MMATH MATHEMATICS<br />
LONDON<br />
“I have been exposed<br />
<strong>to</strong> a variety of clients<br />
from different<br />
sec<strong>to</strong>rs, including<br />
manufacturing, property<br />
and hospitality.<br />
”<br />
When I first thought about applying for an<br />
ACA contract, the <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Careers</strong> guide was a<br />
great starting point with plenty of information<br />
<strong>to</strong> support my job applications. I would never<br />
have imagined that now, 12 exams down and<br />
an ICAEW Prizegiving Awards Ceremony later,<br />
I’d have the opportunity <strong>to</strong> write about my<br />
experience so far as an ACA trainee.<br />
Why did you choose a job in this profession?<br />
At university, I was always very interested in the<br />
application of mathematics <strong>to</strong> real life scenarios<br />
and so a career involving numbers, and in<br />
particular problem solving, was what I always<br />
had in mind. Although I never studied anything<br />
remotely related <strong>to</strong> accountancy, I had a<br />
huge interest in business and finance. The<br />
ACA training contract was therefore perfect,<br />
as it allowed me <strong>to</strong> gain practical experience<br />
working with businesses and study for a<br />
professional qualification at the same time.<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
Any advice?<br />
The application process is facilitated by SWAT<br />
UK who handle the recruitment of some<br />
small-medium sized accountancy firms. After<br />
the initial online application form, I was invited<br />
<strong>to</strong> their London office for an assessment<br />
day. The assessment day was made up of a<br />
maths test, English comprehension task, and<br />
a writing exercise in the morning. Having<br />
passed all three parts, I was given an interview<br />
Although I never studied<br />
anything remotely related <strong>to</strong><br />
accountancy, I had a huge<br />
interest in business and finance.<br />
in the afternoon with one of the members of<br />
the recruitment team. Following the success<br />
of my assessment day I was contacted by<br />
Alliotts for an interview. My first interview was<br />
a competency-based interview with an Audit<br />
Manager followed by an interview with the<br />
Staff Partner. My advice for applicants is time<br />
management for the morning assessments,<br />
as you are given all of them at the same time<br />
and it is up <strong>to</strong> you how you organise the<br />
time between them. Also, during the SWAT<br />
interview you will be asked <strong>to</strong> choose three<br />
firms you are interested in applying <strong>to</strong> with<br />
reasons for each. I would highly recommend<br />
doing research on all the firms <strong>to</strong> help with<br />
your choice by looking at their websites, social<br />
media handles, and attending the SWAT UK<br />
Graduate <strong>Careers</strong> Fair where you have the<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> meet individuals from each firm<br />
– and potentially future colleagues!<br />
What are your main duties?<br />
Training in a medium-sized firm, I have been<br />
exposed <strong>to</strong> a variety of clients from different<br />
38 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
GRADUATE PROFILES<br />
sec<strong>to</strong>rs, including manufacturing, property, and<br />
hospitality. The majority of my assignments<br />
are either preparation of accounts or audits<br />
of companies and solici<strong>to</strong>rs. Depending on<br />
the size, these assignments vary from a few<br />
days’ work <strong>to</strong> a maximum of two weeks, which<br />
means I get <strong>to</strong> work on many clients in a year.<br />
I have also experienced working in the tax<br />
department and with the outsourcing team.<br />
The benefit of choosing a medium-sized firm<br />
is that you generally are able <strong>to</strong> have some<br />
input in<strong>to</strong> the assignments you receive as part<br />
of your training, which is particularly important<br />
if you would like <strong>to</strong> specialise. An example<br />
of this is my interest in tax which I picked up<br />
on during my studies, which translated in<strong>to</strong> a<br />
brief placement in the tax department where I<br />
applied what I learned in<strong>to</strong> practice.<br />
Is it a 9-5 job?<br />
This will vary from firm <strong>to</strong> firm and at my firm<br />
it gets emphasised <strong>to</strong> you quite early on that<br />
your focus should be on passing the exams,<br />
and so on most days you do get <strong>to</strong> leave on<br />
time. Obviously during audits you have <strong>to</strong> tailor<br />
your working hours <strong>to</strong> match that of the client’s<br />
and there will be occasions where overtime is<br />
needed in order <strong>to</strong> meet strict deadlines. Other<br />
than that the culture at the firm is great and<br />
the work/life balance is really prioritised.<br />
Think carefully about what<br />
you hope <strong>to</strong> get out of your<br />
training contract, because<br />
ultimately you will be investing<br />
at least three years in<strong>to</strong> it.<br />
What skills are useful in this profession?<br />
Although good numerical skills are needed in<br />
this profession, you definitely do not need <strong>to</strong><br />
have studied a particular subject <strong>to</strong> succeed.<br />
The role of the accountant is changing rapidly<br />
due <strong>to</strong> technological updates and it has<br />
become more of a business adviser rather<br />
than a number cruncher. It is an increasingly<br />
client-facing role and therefore it is essential<br />
<strong>to</strong> have good interpersonal skills, such as<br />
good verbal communication and listening,<br />
particularly on audits where you will be in<br />
contact with clients on a regular basis.<br />
For more on the ACA head <strong>to</strong>:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting<br />
<strong>to</strong> get in<strong>to</strong> the industry?<br />
Think carefully about what you hope <strong>to</strong><br />
get out of your training contract, because<br />
ultimately you will be investing at least three<br />
years in<strong>to</strong> it. The big firms will offer work<br />
on large, listed clients whereas smaller firms<br />
are mainly owner-managed businesses.<br />
Ask yourself, do you want mainly audit<br />
experience or would you like <strong>to</strong> get exposure<br />
in other areas of accountancy such as<br />
preparing accounts? SWAT UK have a set<br />
structure for their trainees <strong>to</strong> follow, but<br />
everyone has their own style and pattern of<br />
study. It is therefore worth researching, for<br />
example, what the planned study method is<br />
(distance learning vs. classroom tuition) and<br />
which ACA modules the firm would like you<br />
<strong>to</strong> study (given that there is now a choice of<br />
papers at Professional Stage).<br />
What would you like <strong>to</strong> achieve in the future?<br />
My immediate aim is obviously passing the<br />
rest of my exams and getting the coveted ACA<br />
initials after my name. The experience I gained<br />
working in tax and the material covered in<br />
the exams has opened my mind <strong>to</strong> the world<br />
of tax so I plan <strong>to</strong> study the CTA next. As the<br />
ICAEW qualification opens doors <strong>to</strong> a range of<br />
roles in the finance industry, I am keeping my<br />
options open right now. Regardless, I aspire<br />
<strong>to</strong> be a leader of the field in my future role<br />
and I hope <strong>to</strong> make a real positive difference,<br />
whether this is <strong>to</strong> clients in public practice, or<br />
<strong>to</strong> shareholders in industry. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
39
MANAGER, ACCOUNTS AND AUDIT<br />
SAFFERY CHAMPNESS<br />
‘My initial trainee role was more focused on processing and preparing accounts for<br />
‘straight-forward’ cases. As I developed through second and third year, my workload<br />
became more technically complicated and I moved on<strong>to</strong> larger, more interesting<br />
clients’ – Andrew Grant talks us through his career progression and offers some<br />
advice for those considering a job in accountancy.<br />
ANDREW GRANT<br />
2016<br />
Promoted <strong>to</strong> Manager<br />
- Edinburgh office<br />
2014<br />
Promoted <strong>to</strong> Assistant Manager<br />
2013<br />
Became a Qualified Senior<br />
2010<br />
Joined Saffery Champness as a<br />
Trainee <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant<br />
I am a manager in the accounts and audit department of Saffery<br />
Champness LLP, a mid-tier UK accountancy firm. I joined Saffery<br />
Champness from university, trained with the firm and have had<br />
subsequent promotions <strong>to</strong> manager level. My areas of focus<br />
are primarily with landed estates, charities and owner-managed<br />
businesses, and I provide a number of services including<br />
accounts preparation, audit and VAT compliance.<br />
Why accountancy?<br />
In my third and fourth years at university, I attended courses<br />
on career planning and development. These courses were<br />
predominantly led by two ex-employees of large, multinational<br />
businesses, one of which was a ‘Big Four’ accountancy<br />
firm. They suggested a number of careers and highlighted<br />
accountancy in particular as being a career that could offer a<br />
vast array of long-term opportunities. I <strong>to</strong>ok this information<br />
and looked at various options, including other professional<br />
careers, and thought that accountancy would suit me personally,<br />
given that my strongest skills were numerical and analytical.<br />
I looked around various sources of information (university,<br />
accountancy bodies) and gained a deeper understanding of the<br />
different careers within accountancy. I decided that I wanted <strong>to</strong><br />
go in<strong>to</strong> practice and thought that mid-tier firms would suit me<br />
best, given that I would get exposure <strong>to</strong> some larger clients but<br />
also be a key part of the team, rather than being one of a large<br />
number of trainees.<br />
Professional qualifications<br />
As a trainee I studied and sat my accountancy exams. I found<br />
these <strong>to</strong> be quite demanding as there are a lot of key principles<br />
<strong>to</strong> learn over a relatively short period, but they are invaluable<br />
for your long-term career. Overall, I developed a really good<br />
technical understanding of accountancy, audit, finance and<br />
tax and learned how <strong>to</strong> apply them <strong>to</strong> real-life situations. I also<br />
developed a better understanding of how <strong>to</strong> convey issues <strong>to</strong><br />
clients in a concise, relevant manner.<br />
Internal training<br />
In addition <strong>to</strong> the above external professional training, Saffery<br />
Champness provided additional internal training at various<br />
40 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
SENIOR PROFILES<br />
stages throughout my training contract. These<br />
courses were either residential or based in the<br />
firm’s London office and tailored <strong>to</strong> relevant<br />
accountancy <strong>to</strong>pics (e.g. for farms or charities)<br />
as well as developing soft skills and IT training.<br />
These were really useful as I was able <strong>to</strong> meet<br />
peers from around the firm and develop<br />
skills that would not normally be covered by<br />
professional exams.<br />
Post-qualification, the internal courses change<br />
in nature and have a larger focus on soft skills.<br />
Technical training becomes more focused on<br />
updates in the accountancy, audit and tax arenas<br />
and is often implanted at an office level. Soft<br />
skill training helps you develop management<br />
and IT skills that are useful on a daily basis.<br />
My current role<br />
My initial trainee role was more focused<br />
on processing and preparing accounts for<br />
‘straight-forward’ cases. As I developed<br />
through second and third year, my workload<br />
became more technically complicated and I<br />
moved on<strong>to</strong> larger, more interesting clients.<br />
Given their nature, these clients had more<br />
complex accounting issues which improved my<br />
technical knowledge greatly.<br />
As a manager, I now have a<br />
broad portfolio of different client<br />
types in a variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
As a manager, I now have a broad portfolio<br />
of different client types in a variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
I have a large number of audit clients and<br />
generally my role here is <strong>to</strong> arrange staffing;<br />
ensure that the team plan, lead and complete<br />
a job appropriately; and then <strong>to</strong> assist the<br />
partner with their overall review and any<br />
queries they may have. I manage both down<br />
and up: assisting job seniors with any technical<br />
queries they may have, and managing Partners’<br />
expectations and demands.<br />
There have been a large number<br />
of changes <strong>to</strong> accountancy<br />
standards over the last couple<br />
of years and it has been a very<br />
interesting time.<br />
The most interesting aspect <strong>to</strong> my role is<br />
when clients need advice on unusual issues or<br />
transactions. There have been a large number<br />
of changes <strong>to</strong> accountancy standards over<br />
the last couple of years and it has been a very<br />
interesting time <strong>to</strong> assist clients through this,<br />
answering their queries and concerns.<br />
More specifically, clients often want reports on<br />
specific accounting treatment or other issues.<br />
An interesting piece of recent work related<br />
<strong>to</strong> a financial controller who had defrauded a<br />
company and I was involved in tracing what<br />
had happened, what the implications were<br />
and how the company could resolve this. This<br />
tested a number of different areas and it was a<br />
really interesting challenge <strong>to</strong> undertake.<br />
I am also involved in the firm’s internal<br />
training courses and teach certain aspects<br />
of accountancy and audit <strong>to</strong> the trainees on<br />
their residential courses. It is very interesting<br />
<strong>to</strong> discuss these issues, <strong>to</strong> help develop their<br />
technical knowledge, and <strong>to</strong> see how they<br />
approach these subjects. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
41
SENIOR MANAGER, AUDIT AND ASSURANCE<br />
KRESTON REEVES<br />
‘I decided against going <strong>to</strong> university as I wanted <strong>to</strong> earn whilst learning. At the time<br />
I didn’t see myself as an accountant, I just felt the career path being offered was<br />
something that was going <strong>to</strong> work for me. I’m glad I made the right choice.’ – Philip<br />
Reynolds discusses a non-graduate route in<strong>to</strong> the profession and the opportunities<br />
on offer as your career progresses.<br />
PHILIP REYNOLDS<br />
2016<br />
I joined Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves back in 2000 as an AAT trainee after<br />
completing my A levels. I decided against going <strong>to</strong> university<br />
as I wanted <strong>to</strong> earn whilst learning. At the time, I didn’t see<br />
myself as an accountant, I just felt the career path being<br />
offered was something that was going <strong>to</strong> work for me. I’m glad<br />
I made the right choice.<br />
After completing the AAT qualification, the firm supported<br />
me further by allowing me <strong>to</strong> undertake further professional<br />
qualifications, which I duly completed in 2008. Since then I have<br />
progressed through the firm <strong>to</strong> become a Senior Manager in<br />
our Audit and Assurance department.<br />
Promoted <strong>to</strong> Senior Manager,<br />
Audit and Assurance<br />
2013<br />
Promoted <strong>to</strong> Manager in the<br />
Audit and Assurance department<br />
2008<br />
Completed ACCA qualification<br />
2003<br />
Completed AAT qualification<br />
2000<br />
Joined Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves after<br />
completing A levels<br />
I use social media on a regular basis <strong>to</strong><br />
demonstrate <strong>to</strong> the wider world the firm’s<br />
expertise and specialisms.<br />
My role in the firm continues <strong>to</strong> evolve. When the Government’s<br />
academy programme commenced back in 2010, I wanted <strong>to</strong><br />
ensure we could offer support <strong>to</strong> our existing school clients and<br />
some potential new ones. The firm needed someone <strong>to</strong> learn<br />
about academy schools and I was keen <strong>to</strong> be that person. The<br />
support and backing I received <strong>to</strong> develop in<strong>to</strong> this area was<br />
fantastic and we haven’t looked back – we have been successful<br />
in establishing a dedicated academies team and have won<br />
numerous new clients.<br />
I also continue <strong>to</strong> look after a portfolio of corporate clients and I<br />
use social media on a regular basis <strong>to</strong> demonstrate <strong>to</strong> the wider<br />
world the firm’s expertise and specialisms. Although the company<br />
has grown significantly over time via mergers, I like the fact there<br />
is still a real focus on looking after its employees and clients.<br />
Aside from accountancy training, I’ve also benefited from<br />
fantastic people skills training with the support of an outside<br />
company. This training has been really good and helped me <strong>to</strong><br />
42 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
SENIOR PROFILES<br />
hone my people skills far more than I would<br />
have done without it. It’s such a vital ability <strong>to</strong><br />
have in this industry.<br />
Would I recommend a career<br />
in accountancy? A million<br />
percent yes!<br />
Everyone here is extremely sociable and<br />
there’s a dedicated committee that organises<br />
events throughout the year, including quizzes,<br />
football <strong>to</strong>urnaments and sports days. This<br />
helps everyone get <strong>to</strong> know those they don’t<br />
necessarily work with on a regular basis – this<br />
For more on school leaver schemes:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk/career-advice<br />
has been especially important since the<br />
Spofforths merger.<br />
As for the future, I eventually want <strong>to</strong> become a<br />
Partner in the firm and help <strong>to</strong> shape its future. I<br />
care passionately about the firm, not because that<br />
has been installed in me, but because I know what<br />
working here has done for me as a person, as well<br />
as the career opportunities that are available.<br />
Would I recommend a career in accountancy?<br />
A million percent yes! •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
43
ICAEW & QUALIFICATIONS<br />
About ICAEW 46<br />
How <strong>to</strong> Become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant 47<br />
ICAEW Student Scheme 50<br />
The ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB) 51
ABOUT ICAEW<br />
At ICAEW, our members are more than just accountants. They are leaders, crea<strong>to</strong>rs and<br />
innova<strong>to</strong>rs. They don’t settle for average, they strive for the best. That’s why 76 of the FTSE<br />
100 (the leading UK) companies have an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant on their board.<br />
Our qualification, the ACA, opens up a<br />
world of opportunity across a diverse range<br />
of workplaces. From the most renowned<br />
accountancy firms, <strong>to</strong> entrepreneurial start-ups,<br />
charities and government bodies, there’s no<br />
end <strong>to</strong> where our qualification will take you.<br />
So, who are we?<br />
We are a world-leading professional<br />
membership organisation that promotes,<br />
develops and supports over 24,000<br />
students. Alongside our prestigious and<br />
globally-recognised qualification, we offer<br />
professional development, knowledge, and<br />
technical expertise, <strong>to</strong> protect the quality<br />
and integrity of the accountancy and finance<br />
profession, and drive innovation across the<br />
business world.<br />
Why choose us?<br />
We offer more than great career prospects.<br />
Our global network means that you can unlock<br />
your aspirations anywhere in the world, and<br />
our high standards have led <strong>to</strong> the ACA being<br />
renowned as the most prestigious accountancy<br />
qualification. We pride ourselves on offering<br />
a high level of support, and will encourage<br />
professional development throughout your<br />
entire career. Because of this support, ACA<br />
students enjoy high pass rates, with around 80%<br />
of our students passing first time. The ACA will<br />
also give you the opportunity <strong>to</strong> learn while in<br />
full-time employment, combining business and<br />
professional experience with study and exams.<br />
What’s in it for me?<br />
As an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant you will be<br />
doing meaningful, impactful work. You could<br />
be managing the funding of a cutting-edge<br />
technology product one day, and guiding<br />
the financial development of an international<br />
charity the next. You will have opportunities<br />
across the world, with a prestigious<br />
qualification under your belt that will uncover<br />
a host of exciting prospects. You will also have<br />
access <strong>to</strong> a network of the most esteemed<br />
professionals across the industry, quickly<br />
building trusted relationships with business<br />
leaders. ICAEW employers are happy <strong>to</strong> take<br />
students from any degree background, so the<br />
opportunities are open <strong>to</strong> all graduates.<br />
Visit icaew.com/careers for more information<br />
about ICAEW and the ACA qualification. •<br />
46 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
HOW TO BECOME AN ICAEW<br />
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT<br />
To become an ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant, you need <strong>to</strong> train for and successfully<br />
complete the components of the ACA. ACA training is done on-the-job, so you will be<br />
able <strong>to</strong> earn a salary while studying for a globally-recognised qualification. This article<br />
gives an overview of the qualification and how <strong>to</strong> become a chartered accountant.<br />
Successful ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants<br />
need the right mix of knowledge, skills and<br />
on-the-job experience. To follow in the<br />
footsteps of our members and become an<br />
ICAEW <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant, you will need<br />
<strong>to</strong> complete our globally-recognised ACA<br />
qualification. The ACA has four integrated<br />
components that have been carefully designed<br />
<strong>to</strong> build on each other. This means that you<br />
will develop the skills and expertise you need<br />
as you progress through your training.<br />
Professional development is an<br />
essential part of ACA training.<br />
It prepares you <strong>to</strong> successfully<br />
handle a variety of situations<br />
that you will come across<br />
throughout your career.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
47
HOW TO BECOME AN ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT<br />
Professional development<br />
Professional development is an essential part<br />
of ACA training. It prepares you <strong>to</strong> successfully<br />
handle a variety of situations that you will<br />
come across throughout your career. The skills<br />
framework is made up of seven key areas, each<br />
containing seven or eight steps that represent<br />
a particular skill needed <strong>to</strong> be a successful<br />
business professional.<br />
with an authorised employer will mean you<br />
receive the highest standard of training and<br />
support from the start. Your employer will<br />
guide you through your ACA training and you’ll<br />
benefit from six-monthly reviews. These regular<br />
reviews will give you the chance <strong>to</strong> discuss<br />
your progress through all components of ACA<br />
training with your employer. Once completed,<br />
you will record your practical experience in<br />
your online training file.<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong>, finance and business modules<br />
The ACA modules cover a wide range of<br />
subjects, <strong>to</strong> enable you <strong>to</strong> develop a broad<br />
understanding across accountancy, finance<br />
and business. They progress over three levels<br />
and are designed <strong>to</strong> complement the practical<br />
experience, professional development and<br />
ethical learning you gain throughout your ACA<br />
training. This means that you’ll be able <strong>to</strong> apply<br />
theory in the workplace right from the start.<br />
Ethics and professional scepticism<br />
Ethics is more than just knowing the rules<br />
around confidentiality, integrity and objectivity.<br />
It is about being able <strong>to</strong> identify an ethical<br />
dilemma, understand the impact and behave<br />
appropriately. Ethics is an essential part of the<br />
accountancy profession. We integrate ethics<br />
throughout the ACA qualification <strong>to</strong> develop<br />
your ethical capabilities – so you’ll always<br />
know how <strong>to</strong> make the right decision, even<br />
when no one’s looking!<br />
3-5 years’ practical work experience<br />
Practical work experience is a key component<br />
of ACA training. You will need <strong>to</strong> gain and show<br />
evidence of at least 450 days’ work experience,<br />
which must be completed as part of a training<br />
agreement with one of our 3,500+ authorised<br />
employers around the world. The agreement is<br />
separate <strong>to</strong> your employment contract and details<br />
the commitment both you and your employer<br />
have <strong>to</strong> you achieving the ACA qualification.<br />
While you can start the ACA qualification on<br />
your own, securing an ACA training agreement<br />
If you are in an ACA training agreement your<br />
employer will guide you on the pace and order<br />
that you complete the ACA modules, and<br />
discuss professional tuition with you.<br />
You can complete the ACA modules in any<br />
order but you will typically complete the<br />
Certificate Level before moving on <strong>to</strong> the<br />
Professional Level. You will then move on<strong>to</strong> the<br />
Advanced Level.<br />
To support you in applying your knowledge<br />
in exams, there are alternative modules for<br />
Business Planning, Financial Accounting &<br />
Reporting and Corporate Reporting.<br />
When you start an ACA training agreement,<br />
your employer will guide you on the modules<br />
that are right for you. If you start the ACA<br />
independently, you should consider your future<br />
ambitions when selecting which modules <strong>to</strong> sit.<br />
Don’t forget! If you are studying for, or<br />
have completed an accountancy, finance or<br />
business-related undergraduate degree, a<br />
master’s or professional qualification, you may<br />
be eligible <strong>to</strong> apply for exam credits <strong>to</strong>wards<br />
the ACA qualification. Visit icaew.com/cpl <strong>to</strong><br />
find out more.<br />
48 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
HOW TO BECOME AN ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT<br />
Certificate Level<br />
• Six modules.<br />
• An introduction <strong>to</strong> accountancy, finance<br />
and business.<br />
• Each has a 1.5 hour computer-based exam.<br />
• Exams can be sat at any time.<br />
• Can be taken in any order.<br />
• Available as a stand-alone qualification –<br />
ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting<br />
and Business (ICAEW CFAB).<br />
Professional Level<br />
• Six modules.<br />
• Learn <strong>to</strong> apply technical knowledge in<br />
real-life scenarios.<br />
• Each has a 2.5-3 hour exam.<br />
• Exams can be sat in March, June,<br />
September and December.<br />
• Can be taken in any order.<br />
• Alternative modules available for<br />
Business Planning and Financial<br />
Accounting and Reporting.<br />
Advanced Level<br />
• Three modules.<br />
• Strategic decision making at a senior level.<br />
• Real-life scenarios with increased complexity.<br />
• Each has a 3-4 hour written exam.<br />
• Exams can be sat in July and November.<br />
• Alternative modules available for<br />
Corporate Reporting.<br />
This is a snapshot of what training for our<br />
chartered accountancy qualification will<br />
involve. Visit our website icaew.com/careers<br />
<strong>to</strong> find out more about the ACA qualification<br />
and how it will help you <strong>to</strong> develop in<strong>to</strong> a<br />
business professional. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
49
ICAEW STUDENT SCHEME<br />
If you’re studying at university and interested in a highly rewarding career in<br />
accountancy, finance or business, then you can start your journey with ICAEW now<br />
through the ICAEW Student Scheme (USS).<br />
What is the USS?<br />
USS is an online <strong>to</strong>olkit <strong>to</strong> help you develop<br />
the job-essential skills that employers are<br />
looking for in graduates. Whether you want <strong>to</strong><br />
strengthen your CV, gain additional support<br />
for your degree, or simply stand out from your<br />
peers; the ICAEW Student Scheme can help you.<br />
Job-essential skills resources<br />
Develop skills for the workplace with our range<br />
of webinars, presentations, videos and help<br />
sheets. You can choose from a variety of great<br />
<strong>to</strong>pics, including:<br />
• Commercial awareness<br />
• Business English<br />
• CV tips<br />
• Presentation skills<br />
• Interview techniques.<br />
Microsoft Excel online training<br />
Microsoft Excel is the perfect <strong>to</strong>ol <strong>to</strong> help you<br />
organise all aspects of your personal, student<br />
and business life. With our online training<br />
programme, Students’ Excel, you can complete<br />
progress tests, watch video tu<strong>to</strong>rials and track<br />
your personal improvement. What better way<br />
<strong>to</strong> enhance your CV!<br />
How much does it cost?<br />
For a £20 one-off fee, you will gain full access<br />
<strong>to</strong> all of the features and resources the scheme<br />
has <strong>to</strong> offer for the entire duration of your<br />
studies. What’s more, you can continue <strong>to</strong> use<br />
the Scheme for up <strong>to</strong> six months after your<br />
graduation date.<br />
ICAEW CFAB – an extra qualification<br />
When you join the ICAEW Student Scheme we<br />
will au<strong>to</strong>matically waive the fee <strong>to</strong> register for our<br />
key business skills qualification – the Certificate<br />
in Finance, Accounting and Business (ICAEW<br />
CFAB). You get a certificate for each module you<br />
complete, so it’s a great way <strong>to</strong> evidence your<br />
business skills <strong>to</strong> potential employers.<br />
So, if you wanted <strong>to</strong> study for the Certificate<br />
alongside your degree, all you have <strong>to</strong> do is<br />
pay for the exams as you take them.<br />
Plus…<br />
• Special USS e-newsletters.<br />
• Exposure <strong>to</strong> employers and your CV<br />
added <strong>to</strong> our Available Student Register.<br />
• ICAEW expertise from one of our eight<br />
faculties.<br />
• Access <strong>to</strong> research, reports and support<br />
from our world-class e-library (for help<br />
with your dissertations or projects).<br />
• 20% discount when purchasing your NUS<br />
Extra Card (UK only).<br />
• Job alerts.<br />
Visit icaew.com/uss <strong>to</strong> find out more. •<br />
50 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
THE ICAEW CERTIFICATE IN FINANCE,<br />
ACCOUNTING AND BUSINESS (CFAB)<br />
A good understanding of business, finance and accounting is highly valued in any role, in<br />
any organisation in the world. The ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business<br />
(ICAEW CFAB) provides you with the essential business skills <strong>to</strong> succeed in your career.<br />
ICAEW CFAB – fast facts<br />
Getting started: no formal academic entry<br />
requirements needed, although a good<br />
understanding of English and Maths is useful.<br />
What you’ll learn: essential knowledge in<br />
finance, accounting and business.<br />
Study: study options include online, classroom<br />
tuition, self-study and more. You decide what<br />
works best for you and your lifestyle.<br />
Duration: ICAEW CFAB can be gained in one<br />
year – but you can work at your own pace.<br />
Exams: six computer-based exams which you<br />
can take in any order and at any time.<br />
Exam credit: credit is available for five out of six<br />
modules if you are studying for a degree that has<br />
components of finance, accounting or business.<br />
Check your eligibility at icaew.com/cpl<br />
Proof of achievement: once you’ve passed all<br />
the exams, you’ll get an internationally-recognised<br />
qualification from ICAEW <strong>to</strong> prove your<br />
achievement and knowledge.<br />
You get a certificate for each module you<br />
sit/pass – so you can still showcase what<br />
you’ve learned even if you don’t complete the<br />
full qualification.<br />
Cost: depending on the study method, it can<br />
cost less than £800 (all included, eg. exams,<br />
registration and learning material). As a<br />
student you can sign up for the ICAEW Student<br />
Scheme, and get a discounted price on your<br />
ICAEW CFAB registration<br />
Why choose ICAEW CFAB?<br />
Get ahead: show prospective employers you<br />
are ambitious and self-motivated.<br />
Start a new career: if you are considering a<br />
career in business, finance or accounting, you<br />
can study ICAEW CFAB <strong>to</strong> see if it’s right for<br />
you. With the skills you’ll gain, you can also<br />
explore a range of different career options in a<br />
business environment.<br />
Path in<strong>to</strong> chartered accountancy: the<br />
certificate consists of the same six modules<br />
as the first stage of ICAEW’s world-leading<br />
chartered accountancy qualification, the ACA.<br />
This means you can already start your journey<br />
<strong>to</strong>wards chartered accountancy.<br />
Gap year: make your gap year count<br />
by gaining key skills and a certificate <strong>to</strong><br />
demonstrate your achievement.<br />
More information<br />
For more details and <strong>to</strong> register, visit<br />
icaew.com/cfab or email cfab@icaew.com •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
51
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Albert Goodman 54<br />
Alliotts 55<br />
ASE Global 56<br />
Barnes Roffe 58<br />
BDO LLP 60<br />
Blick Rothenberg 62<br />
Blinkhorns 64<br />
Brebners 66<br />
Citroen Wells 68<br />
Deloitte 70<br />
Gerald Edelman 72<br />
Grant Thorn<strong>to</strong>n UK 73<br />
Haslers 74<br />
HAT Group 76<br />
Haysmacintyre 77<br />
Hazlewoods 78<br />
Hillier Hopkins 80<br />
HW Fisher & Company 82<br />
Kings<strong>to</strong>n Smith 84<br />
Knox Cropper 85<br />
Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves 86<br />
Lubbock Fine 88
Mazars 90<br />
Menzies 92<br />
Mercer & Hole 94<br />
Metric 95<br />
Moore Stephens 96<br />
Nyman Libson Paul 97<br />
PKF Littlejohn LLP 98<br />
Rayner Essex 99<br />
Rees Pollock 100<br />
RSM 102<br />
Saffery Champness 104<br />
Shipleys 106<br />
Smith & Williamson 107<br />
UHY Hacker Young 108<br />
Wilkins Kennedy LLP 109<br />
JOB FINDER<br />
Job Finder 110
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants in Somerset and Dorset.<br />
The Albert Goodman philosophy is simple – we<br />
aim <strong>to</strong> contribute most <strong>to</strong> our clients’ success.<br />
All Albert Goodman’s 280-plus people have a shared<br />
aim – <strong>to</strong> contribute significantly such that our clients<br />
achieve their long-term objectives and ambitions.<br />
Our people are bright, commercial and professional<br />
and go out of their way <strong>to</strong> provide the highest<br />
levels of client care. We have over 150 years worth<br />
of heritage as accountants in Somerset and Dorset<br />
and we are proud <strong>to</strong> have worked with many clients<br />
across multiple generations. That is why small and<br />
mid-sized business clients, families and individuals<br />
continue <strong>to</strong> share their goals and work with us.<br />
Training<br />
We offer rewarding and challenging training<br />
programmes for ambitious graduates and college or<br />
school leavers, enabling trainees <strong>to</strong> achieve industry<br />
qualifications through the ICAEW, ACCA, AAT, CAT<br />
and ATT. This is enhanced by our commitment <strong>to</strong><br />
professional and internal training, giving you the<br />
best possible career and personal development<br />
opportunities. We are proud of our track record in<br />
developing the talents and careers of our employees.<br />
You can join Albert Goodman as a trainee and expect<br />
<strong>to</strong> be a partner one day – our managing partner did<br />
this, as did a number of our partners and managers.<br />
No. of employees<br />
264<br />
No. of partners<br />
16<br />
No. of trainees<br />
35<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
10<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
10<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Taun<strong>to</strong>n, Burnham-on-Sea, Yeovil and<br />
Weymouth<br />
We understand that your professional qualification<br />
is only part of the s<strong>to</strong>ry. We support all of our<br />
trainees with a blended approach <strong>to</strong> training and<br />
development, including classroom study, 1:1 coaching<br />
and support and, as you progress, technical and skills<br />
training <strong>to</strong> enable you <strong>to</strong> progress <strong>to</strong> management<br />
and leadership positions.<br />
We recognise that our trainees are the future of<br />
our firm and push ourselves <strong>to</strong> make sure you fulfill<br />
your potential. Please visit our website <strong>to</strong> read our<br />
Trainee Testimonials <strong>to</strong> find out what life at Albert<br />
Goodman is like. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
54 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive,<br />
ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
Alliotts is an independent accountancy and business<br />
advisory practice based in London and Guildford.<br />
We are able <strong>to</strong> offer talented individuals a wide<br />
range of experience and an exposure <strong>to</strong> a varied and<br />
eclectic client base.<br />
You will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
Whatever your role or function, our size means that<br />
you will not be pigeon holed and no two days will<br />
be the same. In our people we engender creative<br />
thinking, a flexible attitude and enquiring minds.<br />
No. of employees<br />
c. 80<br />
No. of partners<br />
13<br />
No. of trainees<br />
13<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
3<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Any<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and Guildford (Surrey)<br />
Our ongoing performance review system is linked <strong>to</strong><br />
Alliotts' goals. The online system used is designed<br />
<strong>to</strong> provide a framework <strong>to</strong> enable people <strong>to</strong> track<br />
their progress and identify developmental needs.<br />
The process encourages high levels of engagement<br />
and motivation <strong>to</strong> succeed. The Firm is committed <strong>to</strong><br />
providing clear direction and career development.<br />
Specialties: Owner-managed businesses and SMEs,<br />
UK subsidiaries of overseas companies, Charities,<br />
NFP and Education, China, Media, Hotels, Legal,<br />
Property Investment, Retail, Technology and High<br />
Net Worth individuals.<br />
In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent study and benefits package, with salary<br />
increases based on exam and work performance.<br />
Add <strong>to</strong> this the opportunities and varied lifestyle that<br />
working in the South East has <strong>to</strong> offer and it all adds<br />
up <strong>to</strong> a very rewarding opportunity.<br />
If you fit the requirements and are looking for a<br />
challenging and rewarding career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
55
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
About us<br />
Recognised as global leaders in the au<strong>to</strong>motive<br />
industry for over 40 years, ASE work with thousands<br />
of mo<strong>to</strong>r dealers, all of the major manufacturers and<br />
finance houses around the world <strong>to</strong> improve dealer,<br />
dealer group and dealer network profitability.<br />
Based on this unique experience we give practical<br />
advice <strong>to</strong> improve dealer performance, provide mo<strong>to</strong>r<br />
trade tax and audit services and, using innovative<br />
technology, supply market intelligence from the<br />
thousands of dealer transactions we analyse <strong>to</strong><br />
support decision making and drive profitability.<br />
Our mo<strong>to</strong>r industry specialists include accountants,<br />
consultants and analysts and by channelling their<br />
expertise, ASE provide practical solutions <strong>to</strong> mitigate<br />
risk, increase opportunity and raise profits.<br />
Whatever the specific needs of a dealership,<br />
dealer group, dealer network or au<strong>to</strong>motive client,<br />
ASE’s team of over 200 mo<strong>to</strong>r industry experts can<br />
drive profitability.<br />
Joining ASE can seriously enhance your reputation<br />
within the mo<strong>to</strong>r sec<strong>to</strong>r, one of the fastest growing<br />
retail sec<strong>to</strong>rs in the world!<br />
No. of employees<br />
280<br />
No. of partners<br />
4<br />
No. of trainees<br />
6<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
6<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
2<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
No preference<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Manchester with national travel<br />
We want <strong>to</strong> create the very best experience for you at<br />
ASE, an environment in which your skills, knowledge<br />
and confidence grow as you shape your career and<br />
contribute <strong>to</strong> our success. You can expect <strong>to</strong> interact<br />
with clients from the outset, tackling real business<br />
challenges and learning from more experienced<br />
colleagues as you go.<br />
Over time you’ll develop a deep understanding of<br />
the issues facing au<strong>to</strong>motive businesses, and the<br />
<strong>to</strong>ols and strategies for dealing with them. We’ll also<br />
provide ongoing training in non-technical areas like<br />
communication and leadership skills, backed up by<br />
informal men<strong>to</strong>ring from leaders within the business.<br />
And all the while we’ll be supporting you in your<br />
professional qualifications and setting you down the<br />
road of becoming a true industry expert. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
56 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Sarah McKeever<br />
Manchester<br />
Manchester Metropolitan<br />
Accounting and Finance<br />
Experienced Audit Associate<br />
Why did you apply for ASE?<br />
I joined ASE in September 2015 and began<br />
my training contract as an Audit Associate<br />
in December 2015. When looking for a<br />
graduate role, one of the most important<br />
fac<strong>to</strong>rs was the study package on offer as well<br />
as the projected career progression. I was<br />
impressed with the professional training on<br />
offer at ASE. In addition, ASE s<strong>to</strong>od out from<br />
most of the graduate jobs on offer due <strong>to</strong><br />
being specialists in the mo<strong>to</strong>r trade and the<br />
bespoke services they had <strong>to</strong> offer.<br />
How would you describe the culture of ASE?<br />
ASE are a forward-looking company and have<br />
an excellent team working environment. I<br />
have experienced this by travelling around the<br />
country working with different teams on a range<br />
of jobs. ASE are keen for you <strong>to</strong> progress every<br />
year by providing internal training courses, as<br />
well as giving you early responsibility on jobs,<br />
which is supported by senior members of staff.<br />
How have you found the training contract?<br />
I am currently working <strong>to</strong>wards my ACA<br />
qualification. I have found the training<br />
contract rewarding and valuable. It is a<br />
globally-recognised qualification and provides<br />
me with knowledge of accounting which can<br />
be applied <strong>to</strong> my daily working environment.<br />
Does the firm offer you the support<br />
necessary <strong>to</strong> do this studying?<br />
The training package on offer is very good.<br />
I attend face <strong>to</strong> face classes and revision<br />
sessions at BPP, which are done on block<br />
releases. Most of my colleagues are<br />
fully-qualified and are able <strong>to</strong> support me<br />
where necessary, as they have been through<br />
the process themselves. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
57
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Barnes Roffe is an independent firm of <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants and business advisors. We are one of the<br />
UK <strong>to</strong>p 40 accounting firms, and our 20 partners and<br />
over 150 employees are all committed <strong>to</strong> delivering<br />
outstanding value <strong>to</strong> our clients.<br />
Our opportunities<br />
Our graduate accountant training scheme is designed<br />
with the specific purpose of giving you the best of both<br />
worlds: fast access <strong>to</strong> credible learning opportunities<br />
and the consideration <strong>to</strong> allow you <strong>to</strong> focus on what’s<br />
important – your studies, whilst at the same time<br />
offering hands on client experience. We want <strong>to</strong> free you<br />
from the excessive burdens that can accompany some<br />
graduate training schemes and offer you the means<br />
<strong>to</strong> successfully pass your exams first time. Our trainees<br />
receive support throughout the training programme and<br />
beyond. At the end of the three year programme, our<br />
trainees are experienced accountants with exceptional<br />
accounting and tax knowledge and skills.<br />
No. of employees<br />
150<br />
No. of partners<br />
20<br />
No. of trainees<br />
40<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
15<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Multiple London locations<br />
What makes us different<br />
Barnes Roffe is a medium-sized firm and that means you<br />
are a big fish in a small pond. The Partners and Managers<br />
know who you are, they are interested in you and your<br />
progression within the firm. Successes are recognised<br />
and responsibility is given early on meaning you can<br />
develop your knowledge and skills as an accountant at a<br />
much faster pace. We are a team, we work <strong>to</strong>gether, we<br />
help each other, we train each other, we share knowledge<br />
amongst each other and we get the job done <strong>to</strong>gether.<br />
What we are looking for<br />
Ambitious, hard-working and driven individuals<br />
who can communicate with colleagues and more<br />
importantly our clients.<br />
Development and career progression<br />
More than half our Barnes Roffe partners began their<br />
journey as graduate trainee accountants within our<br />
firm. Working their way up from assistant <strong>to</strong> senior<br />
<strong>to</strong> manager <strong>to</strong> become a partner; the key <strong>to</strong> their<br />
success has been the knowledge that through our<br />
graduate training programme they could succeed.<br />
That within ten years they could be partners. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
58 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Ria Shanley<br />
East London<br />
Southamp<strong>to</strong>n Solent<br />
BA <strong>Accountancy</strong> and Finance<br />
Audit Manager<br />
Why did you choose Barnes Roffe?<br />
Barnes Roffe are a medium-sized accountancy<br />
firm and I knew that a firm of this size would<br />
be able <strong>to</strong> offer me invaluable experience and<br />
responsibility early on. Barnes Roffe act for<br />
owner managed businesses in all industries<br />
and the size of the client varies from very small<br />
<strong>to</strong> very large so I knew that my experience<br />
and training would be varied and challenging.<br />
Whilst Barnes Roffe are a medium-sized firm<br />
they punch above their weight when it comes<br />
<strong>to</strong> training graduates and career progression<br />
and I wanted <strong>to</strong> be part of their team and<br />
benefit from those opportunities.<br />
What do you like about the Barnes Roffe<br />
Graduate Accounting Training Scheme?<br />
The great thing about working for Barnes Roffe<br />
is that they are a training firm meaning that you<br />
receive an enormous amount of support from<br />
the managers and partners. During my time as<br />
a junior, when I wasn’t at college studying or<br />
doing exams, I was out on audit at a client’s.<br />
From the very start of my job I was involved<br />
in audits and although it can be daunting<br />
at first, it is the best way <strong>to</strong> gain experience<br />
and knowledge in the industry. I feel this has<br />
helped me <strong>to</strong> build up my confidence and also<br />
provided me with a vast range of technical<br />
knowledge. Everybody is very welcoming and<br />
friendly, offering lots of help along the way. The<br />
graduate scheme provides hands on experience<br />
whilst studying for the ACA qualification.<br />
What does your role entail?<br />
After two years and three months I had passed<br />
my final exams; securing a great qualification<br />
and career for myself. Since then I have been<br />
promoted <strong>to</strong> audit senior and two years later,<br />
audit manager. It is a great achievement and the<br />
graduate scheme certainly helped me get there.<br />
As an audit senior leading jobs myself, I built<br />
on relationships with clients and colleagues and<br />
was always learning new aspects of accountancy<br />
and tax. My audit duties included planning<br />
audit jobs, performing audit tests whilst on<br />
site at a client, liaising with the client <strong>to</strong> gain<br />
a clearer understanding of their business and<br />
its performance and preparing corporation tax<br />
returns. An audit senior's job is not just focused<br />
solely on audit, it also involves preparing<br />
accounts and responding <strong>to</strong> client’s requests.<br />
The role is challenging but this keeps me<br />
interested and on my feet. Now, as manager,<br />
I work closely with two of the partners and<br />
am responsible for managing a wide range of<br />
clients. I am exposed <strong>to</strong> different assignments<br />
on a daily basis and thoroughly enjoy the<br />
challenge. It's great <strong>to</strong> become more involved<br />
with clients and the businesses they run.<br />
What career opportunities are there?<br />
There are many opportunities <strong>to</strong> progress and<br />
responsibility is given early on. Barnes Roffe’s<br />
business model is growth from within and they<br />
are constantly looking for and encouraging<br />
you <strong>to</strong> be the Partners of the future. In the East<br />
London Office, six of the ten Partners started<br />
their careers on the Graduate Accounting<br />
Training Scheme and some progressed <strong>to</strong><br />
Partner within less than ten years! •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
59
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
BDO LLP is one of the UK’s largest accountancy<br />
and business advisory firms. We provide integrated<br />
advice and solutions <strong>to</strong> help businesses succeed in<br />
a changing world. Our clients are Britain’s economic<br />
engine – ambitious, entrepreneurially spirited and<br />
high-growth businesses that fuel the economy – and<br />
the management teams that lead them.<br />
Our clients tell us they want <strong>to</strong> work with people<br />
who take the time <strong>to</strong> understand their needs. They<br />
want experts with confidence and experience <strong>to</strong> help<br />
navigate new and unfamiliar terri<strong>to</strong>ry, <strong>to</strong> provide<br />
practical and insightful advice and solutions – people<br />
who have an opinion and want <strong>to</strong> help them succeed.<br />
We offer graduate and internship programmes<br />
specialising in Audit, Tax, Advisory and Business<br />
Services and Outsourcing.<br />
BDO gives graduates all the training they need <strong>to</strong><br />
attain their professional qualifications, along with<br />
extensive practical experience that includes on-site<br />
client work. We provide constant support and believe<br />
in helping you succeed. Achieve your potential. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
3,500 (UK)<br />
68,000 people in 158 countries<br />
No. of partners<br />
350<br />
No. of trainees<br />
750<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 INSIGHTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
200<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
40 internship places. Insight days<br />
running throughout the year<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Nationwide<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
60 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Merissa Maciazek<br />
London<br />
University of Texas-Austin<br />
BA Government<br />
Audit Trainee<br />
What was the interview process like?<br />
The process was really enjoyable, each step of<br />
the way, because I felt like they encouraged<br />
me <strong>to</strong> be myself the entire time. Every person<br />
I met at BDO made me feel at ease and<br />
this made BDO stand out from my other<br />
interviewing experiences with other firms.<br />
How much responsibility do you have?<br />
We are given responsibility from the start;<br />
with every single project the responsibility<br />
changes <strong>to</strong> cover different areas of the audit.<br />
You’re not just ticking boxes and sending it <strong>to</strong><br />
your manager for them <strong>to</strong> review – you own<br />
your work and need <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> discuss it<br />
with clients and senior members.<br />
What do you most enjoy about your role?<br />
I love that each day can be entirely different<br />
from the last, whether I’m working in the<br />
office or if I’m on a site with the client. You<br />
speak <strong>to</strong> different people every day, so there’s<br />
never a dull day. You are also given the<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> work on different industries <strong>to</strong><br />
increase your exposure <strong>to</strong> different markets.<br />
What has been your biggest challenge?<br />
Starting a job in auditing requires you <strong>to</strong> take<br />
accounting exams. I did social sciences at<br />
university, so this was a big learning curve.<br />
However, everyone in the office is really<br />
supportive <strong>to</strong> those of us without accounting<br />
backgrounds <strong>to</strong> ensure we understand what<br />
we’re doing. I’ve never felt at a disadvantage<br />
for not previously studying accounting or<br />
finance at university.<br />
Describe your biggest achievement?<br />
I was nominated for a quarterly award within<br />
London Audit Group <strong>to</strong> acknowledge my<br />
attitude and performance on a challenging<br />
client project. It felt great <strong>to</strong> be recognised at<br />
such an early stage in my career, when I was<br />
really just enjoying the work that I was doing<br />
with my colleagues and clients.<br />
How have you found the experience?<br />
I think what has exceeded my expectations<br />
the most is the people that I work with.<br />
Everyone that I’ve met, all the way up <strong>to</strong><br />
partners, have been so friendly and willing <strong>to</strong><br />
help me learn. I knew that I would be busy<br />
with work and study but I had no idea of how<br />
many friends I would make along the way.<br />
What is the office atmosphere like?<br />
The office is in a hot desk formation, even<br />
partners hot desk with us, so it is a nice<br />
balance between socialising and focusing.<br />
There are also comfortable areas <strong>to</strong> sit in for<br />
casual catch ups or informal meetings; we<br />
have flexible working environments <strong>to</strong> best<br />
suit the work you need <strong>to</strong> achieve.<br />
How promising are the graduate prospects?<br />
The prospects are virtually endless – it just<br />
depends what you think fits you! I’ve met<br />
a lot of people who have chosen <strong>to</strong> stay at<br />
BDO, who have progressed in<strong>to</strong> management<br />
roles because they enjoy the company and<br />
the work we do. You will gain invaluable<br />
networking opportunities at BDO which will<br />
set you up <strong>to</strong> support your career. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
61
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Who are we?<br />
Based in the West End of London, with a client base<br />
<strong>to</strong> rival that of the very largest professional firms, Blick<br />
Rothenberg Limited is in a league of its own.<br />
Our activities fall in<strong>to</strong> three main areas: a strong focus<br />
on inward investment, tax and investment advice<br />
<strong>to</strong> private clients expatriates and business advice <strong>to</strong><br />
owner-managed small and medium-sized businesses.<br />
Blick Rothenberg offers a supportive, friendly and<br />
challenging work environment. We place a high<br />
emphasis on both corporate and social responsibility<br />
and employee engagement, and a number of related<br />
activities take place throughout the year.<br />
Who are you?<br />
You will be highly motivated, ambitious, entrepreneurial<br />
and have a strong analytical ability. Your communication<br />
and personal skills will be second <strong>to</strong> none, allowing you<br />
<strong>to</strong> forge excellent relationships with our clients as well<br />
as work efficiently in a team environment.<br />
What’s in it for you?<br />
Few other firms will be able <strong>to</strong> offer you the<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> work with a client base of such quality<br />
and diversity in such a personal environment.<br />
No. of employees<br />
211 (not including Partners)<br />
No. of partners<br />
33<br />
No. of trainees<br />
29<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
12<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
5<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Any<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
We take on approximately ten trainees a year so<br />
there is no chance of being lost in the crowd. There<br />
are plenty of opportunities for the right graduates<br />
<strong>to</strong> remain with the firm and reach partner level or <strong>to</strong><br />
diversify their careers.<br />
Throughout your training period and beyond, as well<br />
as working <strong>to</strong>wards your professional qualification,<br />
you will attend internal training courses on technical<br />
subjects as well as soft skills.<br />
Last but not least, we firmly believe you should live as<br />
well as work! Our firm and departmental social and CSR<br />
committees ensure Blick Rothenberg is a fun place <strong>to</strong><br />
work which helps us <strong>to</strong> keep our priorities in order. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
62 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Chanil Patel<br />
London<br />
Exeter<br />
BA Geography<br />
Trainee Accountant<br />
Blick Rothenberg s<strong>to</strong>od out <strong>to</strong> me as a <strong>to</strong>p<br />
medium-size firm with a diverse client portfolio.<br />
I had already decided I did not want <strong>to</strong> apply <strong>to</strong><br />
the ‘Big Four’ accountancy firms and felt that a<br />
trainee role at Blick Rothenberg would provide<br />
me with some excellent exposure <strong>to</strong> some really<br />
interesting clients. There is a strong emphasis<br />
on training and personal development at the<br />
firm, meaning the jobs you are put on are often<br />
tailored <strong>to</strong> provide experience in your areas<br />
of interest. Also, there are plenty of in-house<br />
training sessions which allow you <strong>to</strong> develop<br />
skills which cannot be learned from a book.<br />
Why did you choose a job in this profession?<br />
I wanted <strong>to</strong> train as a chartered accountant,<br />
as the qualification provides an excellent<br />
foundation for the world of business. I knew<br />
that the combination of training, on-the-job<br />
learning and professional qualifications would<br />
create an excellent foundation for my career.<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
I applied through the online application<br />
process, which has three stages. First there is<br />
an application form and some verbal, logical<br />
and numerical tests. Then, if successful, a<br />
video assessment and online test that you<br />
can do from home which saves travelling in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and is a quick process. Then finally<br />
there is an assessment day where you get <strong>to</strong><br />
meet partners at the firm and current trainees,<br />
as well as seeing the company. There was a<br />
quick turnaround in between the different<br />
stages and the process did not take long.<br />
The application process is straight forward and<br />
everyone is really friendly and knowledgeable.<br />
The standout point for me was meeting with<br />
two partners during the interview process as it<br />
emphasised the firm’s commitment <strong>to</strong> people.<br />
What are your main duties?<br />
Initially you spend quite a lot of time working<br />
out at client sites, but as you progress through<br />
your training contract you will start <strong>to</strong> plan<br />
and lead small audit teams. We have a really<br />
interesting client base and most trainees<br />
will gain exposure <strong>to</strong> accounting, auditing,<br />
corporation tax and management advice. I have<br />
also been involved in some due diligence work<br />
which was really interesting. This is all combined<br />
with spending quite a bit of time formally<br />
attending technical training and studying at<br />
college for your professional qualification.<br />
Is it a 9-5 job?<br />
Generally there is a good work/life balance.<br />
There are busier times and quieter times<br />
and you have <strong>to</strong> plan your work and study<br />
carefully <strong>to</strong> ensure you get the balance right,<br />
particularly during the run up <strong>to</strong> examinations.<br />
There are also department socials every<br />
month where you get <strong>to</strong> relax and spend time<br />
with your colleagues more informally.<br />
What skills are useful in this profession?<br />
You need <strong>to</strong> be a team player and have a<br />
willingness <strong>to</strong> learn. Having not worked in this<br />
field prior <strong>to</strong> my training contract I initially<br />
had a steep learning curve, but this was made<br />
easier by the friendly colleagues around me.•<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
63
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive,<br />
ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
You will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ACA qualification.<br />
Our client base is predominantly drawn from the<br />
media and entertainment sec<strong>to</strong>rs, in particular film,<br />
television and theatre. We also provide services <strong>to</strong><br />
clients involved in other areas such as the mo<strong>to</strong>rsport,<br />
property investment, retail, charity and service sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Whilst we are mainly a Media and Entertainment firm,<br />
experience in this area is not a prerequisite, although<br />
an interest or awareness is useful. We would, however,<br />
expect you <strong>to</strong> have some interest in accounting or<br />
finance. We also have a wide range of other clients,<br />
from property inves<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> technology companies,<br />
so you will gain an insight in <strong>to</strong> how individuals and<br />
limited companies in other industries operate.<br />
No. of employees<br />
48<br />
No. of partners<br />
8<br />
No. of trainees<br />
13<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
2 for 2018<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
What you can expect<br />
At Blinkhorns we really value our graduates and what<br />
they bring as individuals <strong>to</strong> the firm.<br />
As a graduate you will interact with a wide range<br />
of staff, meaning you will gain valuable insight in<br />
<strong>to</strong> a broad range of areas that will allow you <strong>to</strong><br />
develop a useful understanding of how the world of<br />
accountancy and business operates.<br />
Once qualified many of our graduates choose <strong>to</strong> stay<br />
with us <strong>to</strong> develop further skills. Some have gone on<br />
<strong>to</strong> become Managers and Partners, whilst others have<br />
chosen <strong>to</strong> study in specialist areas.<br />
If you have all this and are looking for a challenging<br />
and rewarding career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day! •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
64 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Emma Whitehead<br />
London<br />
Exeter<br />
BA Geography<br />
Manager<br />
I always wanted <strong>to</strong> work for a firm where<br />
I could gain a wide range of experience<br />
and would be valued as an employee and<br />
wasn't just a number. I found SWAT through<br />
the ICAEW's website. As they specialise in<br />
recruiting for a number of medium-sized<br />
firms, it seemed sensible <strong>to</strong> apply through<br />
them. I applied online before being invited<br />
<strong>to</strong> an interview day where we did a maths<br />
and English test. If you passed, you went on<br />
<strong>to</strong> have a competency-based interview. We<br />
were then asked <strong>to</strong> rank the SWAT firms in<br />
order of preference we would like <strong>to</strong> work for.<br />
Whilst I had no media experience other than<br />
watching films and television, I liked the idea<br />
of working with clients that would be looking<br />
for a more human approach <strong>to</strong> finance than<br />
your typical corporate environment. Also, as<br />
the creative industry is worth £87bn a year <strong>to</strong><br />
the UK economy and 1 in 11 people in the UK<br />
are employed by the entertainment industry, I<br />
knew that there must be more <strong>to</strong> it than I was<br />
aware of at that point.<br />
I could see from Blinkhorn's website that<br />
they had a number of Partners that focused<br />
on high-profile individuals, production<br />
companies, agents and other associated roles.<br />
However, they also had a wealth of other<br />
clients from other industries, meaning that I<br />
would get a broad range of experience.<br />
As a trainee at Blinkhorns you work your<br />
way up; starting with simple bookkeeping<br />
tasks for personal tax returns, through <strong>to</strong><br />
leading audits and preparing consolidated<br />
statu<strong>to</strong>ry accounts. I think that variety at an<br />
early stage is an important part of learning<br />
<strong>to</strong> be a well-rounded professional. Within<br />
the first six months you are allocated <strong>to</strong><br />
one of the Partners' teams. Each team has<br />
at least two managers and several trainees<br />
at different stages of their training, so there<br />
is always someone who can help you. The<br />
team members work closely <strong>to</strong>gether and<br />
support each other through work and study.<br />
The Partners are very approachable and are<br />
genuinely interested in your progress.<br />
Over the course of my training I under<strong>to</strong>ok a<br />
variety of tasks including preparing personal<br />
tax returns; statu<strong>to</strong>ry accounts; corporation tax<br />
returns; management accounts for dentists,<br />
recruitment companies and start-ups; carrying<br />
out audits of builders merchants, technology,<br />
property, theatre and post-production<br />
companies. You get <strong>to</strong> see the bigger<br />
picture as well as understand the issues that<br />
businesses face on a day <strong>to</strong> day basis.<br />
As a trainee in a SWAT firm you go <strong>to</strong> college<br />
<strong>to</strong>gether, which means you also get <strong>to</strong> know<br />
other trainees in similar firms and positions<br />
<strong>to</strong> you. I still see some of the people I trained<br />
with on courses and at events we go <strong>to</strong> now<br />
we are qualified.<br />
Once I was qualified, I <strong>to</strong>ok on more<br />
responsibility and shortly after gaining my<br />
qualification I was promoted <strong>to</strong> a Manager of<br />
the team I was in: just four years after I first<br />
applied <strong>to</strong> SWAT. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
65
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive,<br />
ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
About us<br />
Brebners is a long established firm in the West End of<br />
London. Clients are drawn from many sec<strong>to</strong>rs including<br />
restaurants and leisure, media, manufacturing, service<br />
industries and finance. They range in size from large<br />
corporates <strong>to</strong> individuals in business. We aim <strong>to</strong> be the<br />
best in our field. Our service is based on a thorough<br />
understanding of our clients. Our success has come from<br />
consistently providing dynamic, imaginative solutions <strong>to</strong><br />
our clients’ problems. Our strength lies in the range of<br />
specialist advice we provide and the consistent quality<br />
of service. That quality is non-negotiable because we<br />
want our clients <strong>to</strong> be as proud of us as we are of them.<br />
The firm is large enough <strong>to</strong> have specialist departments,<br />
which are used by the client contact partners <strong>to</strong> provide<br />
<strong>to</strong>p quality service, but small enough <strong>to</strong> maintain close<br />
relationships with clients and staff.<br />
No. of employees<br />
85<br />
No. of partners<br />
20<br />
No. of trainees<br />
18<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
4<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Any<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and South East<br />
Training<br />
Students join our audit and accountancy department<br />
spending on average a couple of weeks on each<br />
assignment. Secondments <strong>to</strong> other departments<br />
ensure that a wide variety of experience, both of<br />
types of work and different businesses, is a feature<br />
of the training. SWAT UK provides both in-house<br />
work related courses and the link <strong>to</strong> the tu<strong>to</strong>rs for<br />
your examinations. We provide an office environment<br />
that is friendly and hard-working with the support<br />
of colleagues and partners as you build up your<br />
knowledge and experience.<br />
About you<br />
The skills needed <strong>to</strong> complete the vigorous training<br />
regime are well known, accountancy is neither all<br />
numbers nor all client contact! Those with good social<br />
skills and an ease with numbers will undoubtedly do well<br />
and we hope you will bring them <strong>to</strong> us. Once qualified<br />
and building on your breadth of experience, there is<br />
plenty of scope <strong>to</strong> specialise within the partnership. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
66 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Helen S<strong>to</strong>rr<br />
London<br />
Oxford<br />
MChem Chemistry<br />
Graduate Trainee<br />
Introduction<br />
Working for a medium-sized firm like Brebners<br />
was always the right decision for me because you<br />
have the opportunity <strong>to</strong> start forming a working<br />
relationship with the clients from the beginning<br />
of your training contract. As a very sociable<br />
person, it was important for me <strong>to</strong> work for a firm<br />
that allows trainees <strong>to</strong> be client-facing early on.<br />
Further, for smaller clients, you will work on<br />
the whole file individually with the support of<br />
a manager or senior, so you can see the wider<br />
picture of their business and develop a solid<br />
business acumen.<br />
From the outset, you will get used <strong>to</strong><br />
communicating with partners and managers<br />
on a daily basis, this is not always the case in<br />
larger firms.<br />
You will gain good experience in both audit<br />
and accountancy, as well as some tax and<br />
company secretarial experience as opposed <strong>to</strong><br />
being in a specialised field from the beginning.<br />
This will help you steer your own career based<br />
on your preferences and strengths.<br />
Brebners<br />
From the moment I walked in<strong>to</strong> the reception<br />
area at Brebners on interview day, I knew I<br />
wanted <strong>to</strong> work here. It just felt right and I have<br />
been very happy here.<br />
Brebners is a friendly, approachable firm and<br />
the people here work hard and achieve a great<br />
deal but also have lives and interests outside of<br />
work. This was key for me. Brebners is always<br />
keen <strong>to</strong> employ people from all walks of life and<br />
your university degree subject is not important.<br />
The office is open plan which helps <strong>to</strong> create an<br />
accessible and friendly environment <strong>to</strong> work in. It<br />
enhances communication between departments<br />
and experience levels and means you can easily<br />
approach staff for help and advice.<br />
Outside of work, there are many Brebners<br />
social events such as the Christmas party, the<br />
annual karaoke and the highly anticipated,<br />
much loved quiz night. Further, when students<br />
pass exams, we organise drinks <strong>to</strong> celebrate<br />
their hard work and success!<br />
Office life<br />
As a junior you will start your Brebners career in<br />
the audit department where you will be booked<br />
on<strong>to</strong> various assignments working for a wide<br />
range of clients. You will be exposed <strong>to</strong> a mixture<br />
of both audit work out at the clients’ offices and<br />
statu<strong>to</strong>ry accounts preparation, in-house. In your<br />
first 18 months you may also be seconded <strong>to</strong><br />
the tax and media departments <strong>to</strong> assist them<br />
during their busiest periods, which provides a<br />
great opportunity for increasing your breadth<br />
of experience.<br />
Brebners operates a ‘hot-desking’ system<br />
in the audit department meaning that, in<br />
theory, juniors will regularly move desks so<br />
that they can be positioned next <strong>to</strong> the senior<br />
or manager who will be supervising their<br />
assignment. This ensures that juniors receive<br />
the help and advice they need in order <strong>to</strong><br />
perform <strong>to</strong> the best possible standards. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
67
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Citroen Wells is a firm of <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants,<br />
based in London’s West End. We’re looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a<br />
number of graduates, who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants. We have high standards and are looking<br />
for candidates with excellent academic qualifications<br />
as well as drive, ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent package (with salary increases based on<br />
exam success and work performances). There’s also<br />
huge potential <strong>to</strong> progress within the firm and the<br />
opportunities are there for those who are proactive<br />
and keen <strong>to</strong> progress. It’s our belief that each trainee<br />
has a chance of becoming a partner in this firm, and<br />
we’ll give you every opportunity <strong>to</strong> achieve your<br />
potential. And it does happen – two of our current<br />
senior partners trained with us and three of our junior<br />
partners also trained here, while other ex-trainees<br />
hold positions within the firm.<br />
No. of employees<br />
64<br />
No. of partners<br />
15<br />
No. of trainees<br />
11<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
4-6<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
The ICAEW ACA qualification<br />
Training contracts are typically three years and lead <strong>to</strong><br />
the ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
Paid study leave is granted and your course and first<br />
attempt examination fees are paid for.<br />
At Citroen Wells you're more than just an employee<br />
The partners and staff at Citroen Wells work closely<br />
<strong>to</strong>gether as a team. We demand a mutual respect<br />
and understanding for each other which has allowed<br />
us <strong>to</strong> function and expand as a unit within a solid<br />
framework. Success at Citroen Wells is generated by<br />
a combination of individual effort and effective team<br />
work. We ensure our trainees learn and understand<br />
how commercial decisions are made.<br />
With us, you'll also benefit from direct involvement<br />
with our partners, who’ll take an active interest in your<br />
development and support you through your training.<br />
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding<br />
career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
68 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Flora Windebank<br />
London<br />
St Andrews<br />
English Literature<br />
Trainee Accountant<br />
I chose <strong>to</strong> study for an ACA qualification<br />
as it is a fantastically regarded and varied<br />
qualification, which really gives you an edge<br />
in <strong>to</strong>day’s competitive job market. I was<br />
attracted <strong>to</strong> Citroen Wells’ graduate scheme<br />
<strong>to</strong> achieve this qualification, as working<br />
in a medium-sized firm would mean a<br />
larger variety of day <strong>to</strong> day tasks and more<br />
responsibility from an earlier stage.<br />
It was initially a daunting prospect for me as<br />
I had not done a degree in a finance or even<br />
a maths-orientated subject, but in all aspects<br />
of your training, whether work experience,<br />
tuition or technical training, everyone is<br />
treated as having no prior knowledge and is<br />
taught up from the very basics. You are given<br />
so much help and support from your firm,<br />
SWAT UK and your college, there is never a<br />
lack of people <strong>to</strong> ask for guidance!<br />
It can be difficult juggling a job as well as<br />
studying and the tuition does go at a fast<br />
pace. However, as long as you keep on <strong>to</strong>p<br />
of things from the beginning, you are still<br />
very much able <strong>to</strong> have a good work/life<br />
balance. No one is a fan of exams but in this<br />
profession the benefits of doing exams when<br />
it comes <strong>to</strong> your job confidence are fantastic.<br />
When not at college or training at SWAT UK,<br />
the day <strong>to</strong> day tasks at work usually include<br />
preparing accounts for small businesses or<br />
sole traders, preparing tax computations and<br />
visiting a variety of clients <strong>to</strong> help seniors<br />
with audit fieldwork. There is huge variety in<br />
the clients I have worked for and I have been<br />
<strong>to</strong> audit charities, investment brokers and<br />
barristers chambers just <strong>to</strong> mention a few. At<br />
a medium-sized firm you really get <strong>to</strong> see a<br />
huge variety of clients in different sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
As long as you are prepared for hard work<br />
and are ready <strong>to</strong> be challenged, the graduate<br />
scheme is a fantastic place <strong>to</strong> begin your<br />
career in accountancy. My advice would be<br />
never be afraid <strong>to</strong> ask as many questions as<br />
possible along the way, no matter how silly<br />
you may feel they are.<br />
Everyone always has time <strong>to</strong> help and wants<br />
<strong>to</strong> see you succeed! •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
69
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
A career full of challenges, learning, qualifications and<br />
progression. You'll find it all at Deloitte – and more. In<br />
this ever more complex world, there is only one way<br />
<strong>to</strong> reinvent the way we work: turn our imagination in<strong>to</strong><br />
action, challenge the old and influence the new.<br />
It’s the smartest and most caring people that make the<br />
difference, because they’re driven by curiosity and the<br />
desire <strong>to</strong> add value. They dream bigger, think creatively<br />
and deliver real impact. Reshaping both the business<br />
and technology landscape, from Human Capital <strong>to</strong> Tax<br />
Consulting, Audit and Finance <strong>to</strong> Cyber and Digital.<br />
Deloitte is among the very few firms where intellect<br />
is integrated with action. Upholding the integrity of<br />
organisations, delivering end-<strong>to</strong>-end improvement<br />
programmes, and turning disruption in<strong>to</strong> opportunity.<br />
Here, you’ll discover a place where everyone is<br />
empowered <strong>to</strong> share ideas and make things happen –<br />
for clients, colleagues and society.<br />
Because that’s what we do. Supporting enterprises,<br />
in collaboration with Apple, <strong>to</strong> change the way<br />
they work. With McLaren Applied Technologies,<br />
building data-driven business products with<br />
artificial intelligence. Improving traffic and accident<br />
response times. Raising quality in supply chains.<br />
And engineering live moni<strong>to</strong>ring and treatment in<br />
healthcare. We’re redesigning the art of Audit and<br />
Tax by forecasting the future, au<strong>to</strong>mating tasks and<br />
dedicating people <strong>to</strong> problem solving.<br />
Imagine building a professional career, gaining<br />
recognised qualifications and developing in a place<br />
where everyone connects and collaborates, across<br />
the world. Where every individual has a voice, respect<br />
is the mindset, agile working the norm, and all are<br />
encouraged <strong>to</strong> challenge. Deloitte’s success is all due<br />
<strong>to</strong> its people: people like you.<br />
Here’s <strong>to</strong> us, <strong>to</strong> the curious, the open minded, the<br />
doers. Those who can inspire leaders and pioneer<br />
new solutions. Those unafraid <strong>to</strong> stand out and make<br />
unexpected things happen. Together. What impact<br />
will you make? Deloitte.co.uk/careers •<br />
No. of employees<br />
15,000+<br />
No. of partners<br />
726<br />
No. of trainees<br />
1600+<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 INSIGHTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
900<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
535<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Various<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
UK wide<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
70 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Mohammed Mirza<br />
London<br />
Warwick<br />
BSc Accounting and Finance<br />
Consultant<br />
I was impressed by the tailored development<br />
I joined Deloitte’s Consulting – Strategy and<br />
Operations – Finance graduate programme<br />
after finishing my Accounting and Finance<br />
(BSc) degree at the University of Warwick.<br />
It was at a careers fair at university that I first<br />
became interested in working at Deloitte. I got<br />
<strong>to</strong> understand more about the different service<br />
lines they offer (Audit, Tax & Consulting) and<br />
was impressed by the emphasis on tailoring<br />
graduates’ skills and development according<br />
<strong>to</strong> the individual’s requirement.<br />
The firm ensures training and support are<br />
provided <strong>to</strong> all new analysts, commencing<br />
with a six week induction course designed <strong>to</strong><br />
provide a practical example of the type of work<br />
undertaken by Deloitte. Beyond this, Deloitte<br />
has a strong developmental culture and<br />
encourages graduates <strong>to</strong> pursue professional<br />
qualifications such as the CIMA & CFA.<br />
At the forefront of business change<br />
Working as part of Deloitte’s Consulting team<br />
has been a rewarding experience. Graduates<br />
are challenged from the start, expected <strong>to</strong><br />
provide input and are often given exposure<br />
<strong>to</strong> senior client members. For example, within<br />
two weeks of starting my first project I was<br />
working with the Financial Direc<strong>to</strong>rs of a FTSE<br />
100 Consumer Business client.<br />
One of the most interesting aspects of<br />
working for Deloitte is being at the forefront<br />
of business change across a range of<br />
industries. For example, our focus on driving<br />
a digital approach across client business<br />
models is transforming the way organisations<br />
interact and serve stakeholders.<br />
So much variety<br />
I have also benefitted from Deloitte’s unique<br />
position and reach within the professional<br />
services market. Being able <strong>to</strong> work with a<br />
variety of clients, including multinational banks,<br />
police forces and an aerospace manufacturer.<br />
As a member of the Consulting – Strategy<br />
and Operations – Finance team, I’ve been<br />
involved in projects ranging from helping the<br />
client understand opportunities presented<br />
by digital <strong>to</strong> their finance team <strong>to</strong> operating<br />
model redesign.<br />
The work I do on a day <strong>to</strong> day basis changes<br />
all the time and that’s something I enjoy<br />
about Consulting and Deloitte. For example,<br />
in recent projects I have visualised an<br />
interactive resource model and facilitated<br />
workshops <strong>to</strong> capture client processes.<br />
Clearly defined career progression<br />
Deloitte places great importance on future<br />
planning for each individual and the career<br />
progression pathway is clearly defined.<br />
Employees are encouraged <strong>to</strong> continually set<br />
development goals and reflect on performance<br />
as a way of taking control of their career.<br />
Personally, I see myself continuing at Deloitte<br />
and working <strong>to</strong>wards more senior capability. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
71
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive,<br />
ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent study and benefits package, with salary<br />
increases based on exam and work performances. You<br />
will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
Gerald Edelman is an established and respected firm<br />
operating in Central London, North London and<br />
Braintree in Essex. We are a medium-size practice<br />
providing an extensive range of professional services<br />
<strong>to</strong> cater for the financial needs of our current and<br />
prospective clients. We have a stable and loyal client<br />
base, where personal recommendations and referrals<br />
demonstrate the satisfaction and confidence which<br />
they have in our services.<br />
No. of employees<br />
110<br />
No. of partners<br />
17<br />
No. of trainees<br />
22 (including ACA, ACCA and ATT)<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
4-6 ACA students<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and Braintree (Essex)<br />
Our clients operate in numerous sec<strong>to</strong>rs, including<br />
property, financial services, marketing, IT, legal<br />
services (solici<strong>to</strong>rs), Not-for-Profit and charity,<br />
wholesale, retail, manufacturing and many others.<br />
We develop the technical and practical skills of our<br />
people with regular external courses and internally<br />
run seminars, and we moni<strong>to</strong>r and encourage their<br />
progress with feedback and the use of a formal<br />
appraisal system. Our philosophy is <strong>to</strong> encourage our<br />
people <strong>to</strong> take on full responsibility for their client work<br />
under the guidance of the partners and managers, and<br />
<strong>to</strong> develop and <strong>to</strong> progress their career with us.<br />
At Gerald Edelman we also have an active social<br />
committee, which arranges numerous firm wide<br />
events throughout the year.<br />
If you have the qualities listed above and are looking for a<br />
challenging and rewarding career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
72 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
There’s never been a more exciting time <strong>to</strong> be a part<br />
of a firm that are passionate about their purpose –<br />
shaping a vibrant economy in the UK and beyond.<br />
Grant Thorn<strong>to</strong>n has a unique culture built around a<br />
shared enterprise model. Their people are empowered<br />
<strong>to</strong> share ideas, share responsibility and share in the<br />
subsequent rewards.<br />
They're a global organisation offering business and<br />
financial advice <strong>to</strong> dynamic organisations in countries<br />
all over the world. Working with organisations of all<br />
sizes, from multinationals <strong>to</strong> start-ups, building trust<br />
and integrity in markets, unlocking sustainable growth<br />
and creating environments where businesses and<br />
people thrive.<br />
They offer four programmes – graduate, school leaver,<br />
internship and 12-month placement – structured<br />
training and the opportunity <strong>to</strong> become a real<br />
business adviser, working in Audit, Tax or Advisory. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
c. 4,500 (UK)<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
200<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
100<br />
No. of school leaver positions<br />
70+<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
26 locations across the UK<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
73
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Haslers is an award-winning Firm of <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants, Tax Consultants and Business Advisers. We<br />
are based <strong>to</strong> the East of London in Lough<strong>to</strong>n in a lively<br />
<strong>to</strong>wn centre location two minutes walk from the Central<br />
Line tube station. Lough<strong>to</strong>n has many restaurants, bars,<br />
shops and sports facilities and is only 15 minutes from<br />
the Olympic Park and a little further by tube in<strong>to</strong> the<br />
City. Haslers has a great mix of clients including SMEs,<br />
groups and charities. You’ll work on both audit and<br />
accounts jobs across a range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs and also have<br />
the opportunity <strong>to</strong> be trained in, and work on, specialist<br />
audits (Solici<strong>to</strong>rs, Charities & NFP and Education).<br />
At Haslers you’ll be more than just a number. You<br />
won’t just be sat behind a desk all day, and you will<br />
have regular meetings with Partners, who have an<br />
open door policy and take an active interest in the<br />
development of our graduates.<br />
Haslers are committed <strong>to</strong> CSR and, via our registered<br />
charity Haslers Foundation, organise fundraising events<br />
and support local causes. Our graduates are encouraged<br />
<strong>to</strong> get involved with the work of Haslers Foundation.<br />
What we can offer you?<br />
• Competitive salary with increases linked <strong>to</strong><br />
performance and exam success.<br />
• Support and men<strong>to</strong>ring <strong>to</strong> assist with ACA exams.<br />
• Advice from other Trainees.<br />
• Opportunities <strong>to</strong> gain experience in other<br />
departments whilst training (Insolvency,<br />
Corporate Finance and Tax).<br />
• Variety and depth of assignments.<br />
• Early responsibility.<br />
• Huge potential <strong>to</strong> progress within the Firm.<br />
Sixty percent of our Partners were promoted<br />
internally and 17% of our Partners joined our<br />
graduate training programme.<br />
• Team events, social activities and a volunteering<br />
day – all of which help you <strong>to</strong> switch off from<br />
work and study and allow you <strong>to</strong> interact socially<br />
with your colleagues.<br />
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply <strong>to</strong>day! •<br />
No. of employees<br />
85<br />
No. of partners<br />
12<br />
No. of trainees<br />
4<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Lough<strong>to</strong>n (East London)<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
74 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
100s Jobs<br />
Find your dream <strong>Accountancy</strong><br />
role online <strong>to</strong>day.<br />
GRADUATE JOBS | INTERNSHIPS & PLACEMENTS | ADVICE<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Are you looking for the best of both worlds?<br />
HAT is a training consortium of 60 small <strong>to</strong><br />
medium-sized firms of accountants. HAT recruits<br />
ACA and AAT trainees on behalf of our full member<br />
firms, which range in size from just three partners<br />
and 15 professional staff, up <strong>to</strong> 30 partners and<br />
over 150 professional staff.<br />
Joining a HAT firm means you will really get the best<br />
of both worlds; early responsibility that comes from<br />
training with a small or medium-sized firm as well as<br />
a highly reputable three-year chartered accountancy<br />
training programme. In addition <strong>to</strong> a highly<br />
competitive annual salary, fully-paid study leave is<br />
given and approximately 24 weeks are spent with<br />
tu<strong>to</strong>rs during your training contract. As well as passing<br />
the exams, you will also attend high quality practical<br />
courses which are written and run by HAT; that’s why,<br />
on average, 88% of our students pass first time!<br />
Vacancies and location<br />
We have up <strong>to</strong> 60 trainee roles available each year.<br />
Just one application <strong>to</strong> HAT will mean that we can<br />
consider you for all trainee vacancies within the group.<br />
We have two intakes each year, in January and August,<br />
but we accept applications all year round and we can<br />
promise you a personal and highly efficient candidate<br />
experience at all stages of the application process.<br />
Most vacancies are in London and Essex. Depending<br />
on which firm you join, you can expect a starting<br />
salary of £25,000-£27,500.<br />
No. of employees<br />
Varies depending on the firm you are<br />
placed with<br />
No. of partners<br />
Varies depending on the firm you are<br />
placed with<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
Up <strong>to</strong> 60 each year<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
Up <strong>to</strong> 8<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Mainly London and Essex<br />
Minimum academic criteria<br />
You will need at least five GCSEs (grade A-C)<br />
including a minimum B grade in Mathematics and<br />
English, 320 UCAS points (ABB) plus an expectation<br />
of at least a 2:1 degree classification in any discipline.<br />
Application procedure<br />
For more information and <strong>to</strong> apply online, please visit<br />
our website at www.hatgroup.co.uk/recruitment •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
76 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We’ll invest in your future<br />
As a <strong>to</strong>p 30 UK accountancy firm and advisers <strong>to</strong><br />
some of the country’s most exciting businesses and<br />
charities, we offer a dynamic place <strong>to</strong> start your career<br />
and gain a prestigious professional qualification. Our<br />
32 partners (over half joined as graduates) and 220<br />
staff all work <strong>to</strong>gether in our modern office building<br />
in Holborn, central London.<br />
The firm operates a sec<strong>to</strong>r driven approach, but whilst<br />
on a training agreement this will not impact on the<br />
clients you work with. As right from the beginning<br />
you will be working on challenging projects for all<br />
kinds of sec<strong>to</strong>rs ranging from Creative, Media and<br />
Technology clients through <strong>to</strong> Property, Hospitality,<br />
Professional Institutes & Membership Bodies and<br />
Charities. It is only at manager level that you have the<br />
chance <strong>to</strong> specialise in your chosen sec<strong>to</strong>r.<br />
In return, we’ll help you develop your professional<br />
skills with on-the-job coaching, study support and<br />
<strong>to</strong>p class training <strong>to</strong> give you the strongest possible<br />
foundation for your business career. We offer the<br />
unique opportunity <strong>to</strong> study for the ACA CTA joint<br />
programme where you will be working <strong>to</strong>wards<br />
gaining membership of the Institute of <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) and<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> Institute of Taxation (CIOT).<br />
Personal care and attention really matter <strong>to</strong> us. We aim<br />
<strong>to</strong> help all our clients improve the way they work and<br />
achieve their goals – we’ll do the same for you. You will<br />
be assigned a men<strong>to</strong>r from day one <strong>to</strong> support your<br />
career and development with regular feedback and<br />
performance appraisals. Successful client relationships<br />
depend on the quality of our staff. So we’re looking<br />
for great communica<strong>to</strong>rs, problem-solvers and<br />
collabora<strong>to</strong>rs who are keen <strong>to</strong> continually update their<br />
skills and knowledge.<br />
Alongside our Graduate Training Scheme in our Audit,<br />
Business Support and Business Tax departments,<br />
we also offer one-year industrial placements in our<br />
Audit department. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
200+<br />
No. of partners<br />
32<br />
No. of trainees<br />
24<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
24<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
3<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degree disciplines<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
77
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Our future is in your hands<br />
Hazlewoods is one of the UK’s leading firms of<br />
accountants and business advisers, servicing a<br />
diverse client base across a variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs. We<br />
truly believe that our success is dependent on the<br />
people we employ.<br />
To ensure we have a prosperous future, we set our<br />
employees up for success. We provide them with<br />
first class training which is not limited <strong>to</strong> professional<br />
qualifications. At Hazlewoods we want <strong>to</strong> give<br />
our employees every opportunity they need <strong>to</strong><br />
develop beyond their professional careers and offer<br />
a wide variety of pre and post-qualified training<br />
opportunities, designed <strong>to</strong> meet both technical and<br />
personal needs.<br />
We recognise that our employees are individuals and<br />
not just cogs in big corporate wheels. We commit<br />
<strong>to</strong> getting our employees involved in a wide range<br />
of activities right from the start, both in the office<br />
and on site with clients, and offer a friendly working<br />
environment where new ideas are encouraged and<br />
au<strong>to</strong>nomy is second nature.<br />
Whether you are looking <strong>to</strong> start your career in<br />
accountancy or you are looking for the next step in<br />
your career, Hazlewoods is a great choice and we<br />
want you <strong>to</strong> choose us.<br />
No. of employees<br />
280<br />
No. of partners<br />
25<br />
No. of trainees<br />
60<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
20<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
10<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines accepted<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Cheltenham and Staver<strong>to</strong>n (Glos)<br />
We are recruiting graduate and school leaver<br />
trainees. You will receive exceptional training and a<br />
fast track career. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
78 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Alastair Main<br />
Staver<strong>to</strong>n, Gloucestershire<br />
Nottingham<br />
Biology<br />
Corporate Services ACA Trainee<br />
Whilst studying for my degree in Biology<br />
I was unsure of which career path <strong>to</strong> take,<br />
which led <strong>to</strong> me applying for a placement<br />
with Hazlewoods. This stimulated an interest<br />
in accountancy and led <strong>to</strong> me joining the<br />
graduate trainee scheme.<br />
I am a member of the Corporate Services<br />
department carrying out mainly statu<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
audit work for small and medium-sized<br />
clients. My work requires me <strong>to</strong> regularly<br />
go <strong>to</strong> clients’ premises where we work as a<br />
small team. This can involve a small amount<br />
of travel; it is always interesting <strong>to</strong> work in<br />
different places meeting new people.<br />
The work is fascinating and varied, with great<br />
emphasis placed on understanding and<br />
questioning the information we are provided<br />
with. Direct contact with cus<strong>to</strong>mers from<br />
an early stage has given me a great chance<br />
<strong>to</strong> develop my interpersonal skills, certainly<br />
when having the audi<strong>to</strong>rs in can be seen as<br />
quite intimidating!<br />
There is a natural progression in work<br />
complexity and responsibility as you gain<br />
more knowledge and experience; a thirst for<br />
learning is a great asset. I have found there<br />
<strong>to</strong> be a great support network <strong>to</strong> facilitate<br />
my personal career growth and hope <strong>to</strong> be<br />
leading audit fieldwork within two years.<br />
Personal attributes which I have found<br />
important in my role with the Corporate<br />
Services team are an inquisitive nature and<br />
an eye for detail, which allow you <strong>to</strong> ask the<br />
right questions of the client. Strong time<br />
management skills are also a great asset as<br />
work often requires prioritisation.<br />
As a company I have found Hazlewoods<br />
<strong>to</strong> offer a great range of experience. As a<br />
trainee I have been on secondments <strong>to</strong> other<br />
departments within the company, allowing<br />
me <strong>to</strong> work on personal tax returns and<br />
focus on accounts preparation, the value of<br />
which cannot be understated with regards <strong>to</strong><br />
understanding the material you will study for<br />
the ACA qualification.<br />
Aside from the work there is great comradery,<br />
with a very active social committee. There are<br />
events most months, ranging from go-karting<br />
<strong>to</strong> wine tasting; although a personal highlight<br />
was the black tie Christmas party. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
79
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Hillier Hopkins has held the Inves<strong>to</strong>r In People<br />
accreditation since 1994. More than merely a badge<br />
of honour, many of our current Principals’ careers<br />
developed from the starting point of ACA student<br />
<strong>to</strong> currently leading the Firm. In fact, our Managing<br />
Principal started as a student with us. Hillier<br />
Hopkins recognise that giving scope of opportunity<br />
and responsibility at an early stage can enhance<br />
knowledge, skills and attitude <strong>to</strong> a person’s future.<br />
With a growing and diverse client base, as an ACA<br />
student, you can expect <strong>to</strong> work on a range of<br />
demanding assignments in any one year. Working<br />
closely with a variety of professional members and<br />
qualified staff you will learn technical skills and see<br />
the results of your input from an early stage. You’ll<br />
work on practical assignments which are directly<br />
relevant <strong>to</strong> your professional examinations and be<br />
given feedback along the way.<br />
Not everyone fits in with our style, but here’s an<br />
indica<strong>to</strong>r of what we are looking for:<br />
• Intelligent, articulate and independent mind with<br />
warm, lively interpersonal skills.<br />
• A graduate (with or expecting <strong>to</strong> achieve a 2:1<br />
degree or above) with good A levels (a minimum<br />
of 300 UCAS points, or equivalent, excluding<br />
general studies).<br />
• Looking <strong>to</strong> enjoy the challenge of working as<br />
part of a team <strong>to</strong> deliver results.<br />
• Committed <strong>to</strong> your career with a business-like<br />
attitude.<br />
• Willingness <strong>to</strong> accept responsibility early on.<br />
• Aim <strong>to</strong> study hard and pass exams first time.<br />
• A good networker of people.<br />
• Able <strong>to</strong> be based from Watford, Hertfordshire,<br />
but travel <strong>to</strong> London and Home Counties.<br />
About us<br />
Established in 1933, Hillier Hopkins is one of the<br />
region’s leading independent and progressive Top<br />
50 firms of chartered accountants. Serving London<br />
and the Home Counties, we operate a culture of<br />
innovation where training and development of our<br />
people is seen as key <strong>to</strong> our continued success. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
120+<br />
No. of partners<br />
17<br />
No. of trainees<br />
25<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
8<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
3<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines accepted<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Watford (Hertfordshire)<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
80 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Emily Griffin<br />
Watford<br />
Reading<br />
Accounting and Management<br />
<strong>Chartered</strong> <strong>Accountancy</strong> Student<br />
How did you get your role?<br />
I applied for the role of <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant<br />
Student through the Hillier Hopkins website<br />
and completed the form. I was then invited<br />
for a telephone interview, followed by a face<br />
<strong>to</strong> face interview with senior management. I<br />
then completed some online psychometric<br />
tests and finally I had a face <strong>to</strong> face interview<br />
with the student Principal.<br />
Why did you choose Hillier Hopkins?<br />
I applied <strong>to</strong> Hillier Hopkins because of its<br />
location in relation <strong>to</strong> my home <strong>to</strong>wn and<br />
connections <strong>to</strong> London. I chose <strong>to</strong> apply <strong>to</strong><br />
Hillier Hopkins as it is a mid tier firm and<br />
allows for earlier responsibility and closer<br />
professional relationships with other members<br />
of staff. Currently as a second year student, I<br />
am already taking out first year students on<br />
small audits and helping with training and<br />
developing their knowledge – therefore I have<br />
been able <strong>to</strong> take on responsibility early in<strong>to</strong><br />
my contract and gain vital experience from this.<br />
What challenges have you come across and<br />
what support have you received?<br />
It has been difficult <strong>to</strong> adapt <strong>to</strong> the work, life<br />
and study environment whilst studying for my<br />
ACA. Balancing all three has been a challenge<br />
coming from university where the main priority<br />
was studying. Hillier Hopkins have supported<br />
me through the exams by encouraging<br />
interaction with students in other year groups<br />
<strong>to</strong> discuss study tactics etc. We also all have<br />
men<strong>to</strong>rs in senior management who are<br />
available <strong>to</strong> discuss any issues with at all times.<br />
Do you have any advice for anyone<br />
wanting <strong>to</strong> join Hillier Hopkins?<br />
It is not easy studying for your ACA and therefore<br />
you need <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> focus and work hard. Be<br />
organised and determined <strong>to</strong> push through the<br />
exams whilst maintaining a full-time job. You will<br />
also need <strong>to</strong> be prepared <strong>to</strong> take responsibility<br />
for your own work early on and be willing <strong>to</strong> take<br />
on more senior positions at an early stage than<br />
would be possible at a ‘Big Four’ firm.<br />
What personal developments have you made?<br />
The obvious development is confidence. I’m<br />
able <strong>to</strong> work comfortably in a professional<br />
environment; help other students and<br />
communicate with a wide variety of differing<br />
clients. Personal organisation has also been a main<br />
development for me. Juggling exams, work and<br />
the responsibility of being the first point of contact<br />
for clients required a change in my approach.<br />
How would you describe the firm's culture?<br />
The culture at Hillier Hopkins is professional<br />
yet personal. For me, a mid tier firm taking<br />
on an intake of six students a year is a lot<br />
more personal than at other firms. Principals<br />
know you by your first name and you are<br />
encouraged <strong>to</strong> participate in activities, both<br />
work and social. At Hillier Hopkins we are<br />
one of two firms that are active members in<br />
the Beds, Bucks and Herts student society for<br />
other ACA students. We are therefore heavily<br />
involved in organising events for students<br />
across the region. The work/life balance is<br />
emphasised at Hillier Hopkins and this is one<br />
of the reasons I chose <strong>to</strong> work here! •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
81
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
If you are a bright and ambitious graduate thinking<br />
about your future, HW Fisher can help you on the<br />
road <strong>to</strong> success. We are a <strong>to</strong>p 25 UK accountancy<br />
firm with a hugely diverse client portfolio that covers<br />
all areas of commerce and industry. Our services are<br />
aimed at entrepreneurial (SMEs) and large corporates.<br />
Our services include:<br />
• Audit<br />
• Corporate tax<br />
• Private client<br />
• Business recovery and insolvency<br />
• Forensic accounting<br />
• Corporate finance.<br />
We pride ourselves on our bright, motivated and<br />
commercial teams that work with businesses across a<br />
broad range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Your training and development<br />
We offer a challenging ACA training scheme based<br />
in our audit department, where you can expect <strong>to</strong><br />
benefit from early responsibility <strong>to</strong> maximise your full<br />
potential. As well as full training and support, you will<br />
have the opportunity <strong>to</strong> work with an array of clients<br />
in various industries including media, property and<br />
charities. Your professional exam training is provided<br />
by First Intuition and we liaise closely with their<br />
professional tu<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> moni<strong>to</strong>r your progress, and<br />
ensure you have all the support you need <strong>to</strong> help pass<br />
your exams. We provide a comprehensive programme<br />
of in-house training <strong>to</strong> complement your exam studies<br />
<strong>to</strong> give you the best possible chance of success.<br />
Your future<br />
After you qualify, you will have important decisions<br />
<strong>to</strong> make about your future career progression. We<br />
will assist you by recognising your individual skills<br />
and abilities, and by continuing <strong>to</strong> provide you<br />
with challenging and stimulating work as well as<br />
the opportunity <strong>to</strong> move <strong>to</strong> specialist departments.<br />
As your career develops, we will help you prepare<br />
for new challenges by providing ongoing training<br />
in management and personal skills, as well as via<br />
technical updates. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
320<br />
No. of partners<br />
36<br />
No. of trainees<br />
50<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
16-18<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines accepted<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
82 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Charlotte (Lotty) Grims<strong>to</strong>n<br />
London<br />
Leeds<br />
French and International Relations<br />
ACA Trainee<br />
How did you get your job at HW Fisher?<br />
I applied via the online recruitment system.<br />
This required completing an application<br />
form with competency-based questions. The<br />
recruitment team review your application in<br />
detail and if successful you are invited <strong>to</strong> an<br />
assessment day. This did seem daunting at<br />
first, considering I had no previous accounting<br />
experience, however, HW Fisher considers<br />
previous internships and life experiences<br />
and does not solely focus on academic<br />
achievements or accounting backgrounds.<br />
In addition, no online tests are used; they<br />
take a more personal approach <strong>to</strong> assess<br />
your character and capabilities <strong>to</strong> ensure you<br />
have the right attitude and skills <strong>to</strong> fit the<br />
firm’s culture.<br />
Why did you choose HW Fisher?<br />
Firstly, I felt it would give me exposure <strong>to</strong> a<br />
variety of clients across a range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs,<br />
encouraging a depth and variety of assignments.<br />
Secondly, I felt it would combine the<br />
professional scope of a larger firm with a more<br />
people friendly atmosphere of a smaller firm.<br />
From the interview stage, it was clear that HW<br />
Fisher would combine both the scope I was<br />
looking for and a sociable and supportive<br />
work environment.<br />
What is it like working at HW Fisher?<br />
The work environment is fast paced, demanding<br />
and requires initiative. There is a support system<br />
in place which is shown through dedicated<br />
men<strong>to</strong>rs, a buddy system, and working with<br />
more experienced trainees. Sometimes it can<br />
be hard <strong>to</strong> juggle work deadlines and exam<br />
pressures but older trainees are always open <strong>to</strong><br />
give advice because of their experience. I really<br />
enjoy the fun and inclusive culture.<br />
What skills are useful in the profession?<br />
You can see that having previous experience<br />
in accounting is not an essential skill <strong>to</strong> have<br />
beforehand. You develop your accounting<br />
skills on-the-job. Time management is<br />
fundamental if you are considering the ACA<br />
as you will need <strong>to</strong> balance work and private<br />
study. Additionally, a positive attitude and a<br />
willingness <strong>to</strong> learn will serve you well in all<br />
stages of your training contract.<br />
What do you like most about your role?<br />
I really enjoy being given responsibility at an<br />
early stage and this is one of the benefits of a<br />
mid-tier firm. Seeing how different businesses<br />
in different sec<strong>to</strong>rs operate and interact with<br />
each other is interesting and my general<br />
understanding of business and finance has<br />
grown. This is helpful for your studies and<br />
future career opportunities. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
83
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Kings<strong>to</strong>n Smith is one of the UK’s <strong>to</strong>p 20 audit<br />
and chartered accountancy firms with over 500<br />
people based in London and the South East. We<br />
support entrepreneurs and their businesses, private<br />
individuals and not-for-profit organisations across a<br />
number of sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
As a trainee chartered accountant at Kings<strong>to</strong>n Smith you<br />
will train as a general practitioner rather than a specialist<br />
and therefore receive a wide range of experience across<br />
audit, accountancy and taxation. Kings<strong>to</strong>n Smith’s<br />
wide range of clients means that you will benefit<br />
from working with an interesting mix of industries<br />
and businesses. We encourage early responsibility<br />
and ensure that as you progress you are given the<br />
opportunity <strong>to</strong> work on all aspects of an assignment.<br />
You will receive first class training within a supportive<br />
environment, helping you <strong>to</strong> succeed in both your<br />
work experience and ACA exams. Our ACA pass<br />
rates are exceptional and are consistently well above<br />
the ICAEW’s average, highlighting our success at<br />
training and supporting graduates through the ACA<br />
qualification. Our trainees all study <strong>to</strong>gether in the<br />
same class at college so you will have the opportunity<br />
<strong>to</strong> build up strong relationships and can help support<br />
each other through studying and exams.<br />
No. of employees<br />
530<br />
No. of partners<br />
63<br />
No. of trainees<br />
110<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
40<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
City of London, West End, Heathrow,<br />
Redhill, Romford, St Albans<br />
We are big enough <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> offer a wide variety<br />
of experience but we’re still the kind of place where<br />
personality is valued and individual achievement gets<br />
recognised. Our personal approach means you will get<br />
<strong>to</strong> know all of our Partners, who will be accessible <strong>to</strong><br />
you and will be genuinely committed <strong>to</strong> your training<br />
and development.<br />
There is always plenty going on in our friendly offices,<br />
with a wide variety of social activities. We have a<br />
firm-wide social committee with representatives from<br />
every level within the firm, who are always looking for<br />
suggestions and volunteers <strong>to</strong> help organise events.<br />
For more information visit our website:<br />
careers.kings<strong>to</strong>nsmith.co.uk/graduates •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
84 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Knox Cropper is based in central London, with additional<br />
offices in Haslemere, Surrey and Hemel Hempstead. We<br />
are one of the leading firms of <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants<br />
servicing the 'Not-for-Profit' sec<strong>to</strong>r.<br />
We have a unique client base, ensuring that our<br />
employees have exposure <strong>to</strong> a wide range of<br />
organisations, from small charitable trusts <strong>to</strong> national<br />
charities, trade unions and universities.<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive,<br />
ambition and a hunger for success.<br />
In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent package (with salary increases based on<br />
exam and work performances). There is also huge<br />
potential <strong>to</strong> progress within the firm, and capable and<br />
committed individuals can expect rapid promotion<br />
<strong>to</strong> senior positions. Add <strong>to</strong> this the opportunities and<br />
varied lifestyle that working in the Capital has <strong>to</strong> offer<br />
and it all adds up <strong>to</strong> a very rewarding opportunity.<br />
No. of employees<br />
35<br />
No. of partners<br />
6<br />
No. of trainees<br />
11 (inc. 2 ACCA)<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
2<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and Surrey<br />
Your route <strong>to</strong> the ICAEW ACA qualification<br />
You will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
What we’re looking for<br />
At Knox Cropper, we recruit graduates who display<br />
initiative, motivation and who can demonstrate the<br />
ability <strong>to</strong> contribute effectively <strong>to</strong> team work. We<br />
recognise that our business is a people-business and<br />
our staff are our most important resource. For our part<br />
we are committed <strong>to</strong> providing the highest quality<br />
of training for students and qualified staff including<br />
sound examination and practical instruction, <strong>to</strong>gether<br />
with effective on-the-job training.<br />
If you have all this and are looking for a challenging<br />
and rewarding career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
85
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Firm structure<br />
Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves are chartered accountants and business<br />
advisers offering audit, accounts, strategic tax and<br />
business development advice and is one of the major<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> and Financial Services firms practising in<br />
the South East of England. Established over 100 years<br />
ago in Canterbury, we have built a growing reputation<br />
for our award-winning tax and financial advice. Today,<br />
we have offices in Kent, Sussex and London.<br />
We believe it is about understanding our clients’<br />
needs in order <strong>to</strong> provide a personal, proactive and<br />
professional range of financial services; including wills<br />
and probate. Although some of our main functions<br />
include auditing and accounts preparation, we<br />
see ourselves more as business advisers who help<br />
companies <strong>to</strong> raise capital, restructure and <strong>to</strong> set<br />
up advanced accounting systems <strong>to</strong> sharpen their<br />
competitive edge in the marketplace.<br />
Training contract<br />
If you think accountancy is just about number<br />
crunching… then Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves is NOT the firm for you.<br />
Many practices say that they value people, but we<br />
really do, in fact we invest over £60,000 in every trainee<br />
over the course of their training contract. Commitment<br />
and loyalty are key principles that are applied<br />
throughout the Firm. They are central both <strong>to</strong> our client<br />
relationships and our approach <strong>to</strong> those who would<br />
like a career with us. Corporate social responsibility is<br />
high on the agenda at Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves <strong>to</strong>o.<br />
An apprenticeship and training contract with Kres<strong>to</strong>n<br />
Reeves is the key <strong>to</strong> a secure future. Our approach <strong>to</strong><br />
professional development is a two-way collaborative<br />
responsibility. We expect you <strong>to</strong> take the initiative for<br />
directing your career and we will help you achieve<br />
your goals in terms of professional satisfaction,<br />
career progression and personal development. We<br />
will support you financially, help you <strong>to</strong> achieve<br />
your professional goals and promote your personal<br />
development in return for your hard work and<br />
commitment <strong>to</strong> us. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
550+<br />
No. of partners<br />
53<br />
No. of trainees<br />
126<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
Varies<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London, Kent and Sussex<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
86 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Dan Harris<br />
Canterbury<br />
Kent at Canterbury<br />
Mathematics and Accounting & Finance<br />
Business Services<br />
How did you get your job at Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves?<br />
The application process <strong>to</strong>ok place over three<br />
stages. This included:<br />
• Three online tests: numerical, verbal<br />
and logical.<br />
• Half day assessment centre with an initial<br />
interview, group exercise and in-tray test.<br />
• Ten minute presentation <strong>to</strong> a senior panel<br />
followed by a second interview.<br />
Why did you choose Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves?<br />
At the time I started, Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves had just<br />
been awarded ‘Training Firm of the Year’ by<br />
the British <strong>Accountancy</strong> Awards. I thought I’d<br />
get more in-depth knowledge by training at a<br />
medium firm rather than a large one, as you<br />
can <strong>to</strong>uch upon more areas. Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves<br />
is also a very well known firm within London<br />
and the South East; currently 24th largest firm<br />
according <strong>to</strong> <strong>Accountancy</strong> Age. The vast spread<br />
of their ten offices means that they are local<br />
<strong>to</strong> many employees, requiring little travel time<br />
between work and home.<br />
What challenges have you come across and<br />
what support have you received?<br />
The biggest challenge starting as a student<br />
trainee is adopting the correct work/life<br />
balance. Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves actively support the<br />
students by sending them on refresher courses,<br />
should they already have exam exemptions.<br />
This revision of prior knowledge can provide<br />
a comfort <strong>to</strong> those that may have received<br />
exemptions for courses they <strong>to</strong>ok a few years<br />
ago. Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves promotes the work/life<br />
balance through their Sports & Social events,<br />
whereby free or subsidised events are put on<br />
for all staff throughout the year.<br />
How do you see yourself progressing from<br />
your current position in the next 2-3 years?<br />
As time passes I’d expect <strong>to</strong> pick up larger and<br />
more complex clients. Once qualified, the door<br />
is open <strong>to</strong> many other departments and not<br />
a single route <strong>to</strong> the department assigned <strong>to</strong><br />
you at the start. The development of online<br />
accounting will revolutionise the way we work<br />
as accountants, so I expect my role <strong>to</strong> be very<br />
different in three years time.<br />
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting<br />
<strong>to</strong> work at Kres<strong>to</strong>n Reeves?<br />
Go for it! It will be the biggest challenge you<br />
will have faced so far, but the future rewards<br />
will outweigh the short-term sacrifices. The key<br />
<strong>to</strong> success will be a constant good attitude <strong>to</strong><br />
hard work and being a good team player. You<br />
will go as far as you push. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
87
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Lubbock Fine provides a full range of services<br />
on all aspects of accountancy and audit, UK and<br />
international taxation, financial management and<br />
administration, and company secretarial. In addition<br />
<strong>to</strong> routine audit and tax compliance the firm provides<br />
specialist services including IT consultancy, corporate<br />
finance, specialist audits, insolvency, litigation support<br />
and more. Founded in 1929, we currently have 13<br />
partners and more than 100 staff based in the City of<br />
London. Lubbock Fine is also a founder member of<br />
Russell Bedford International (RBI), an association of<br />
independent accountancy firms which extends <strong>to</strong> over<br />
290 offices in more than 100 countries worldwide.<br />
You and your career<br />
Recruiting high calibre staff with friendly, confident<br />
personalities and good interpersonal skills is crucial <strong>to</strong><br />
us, as is your ability <strong>to</strong> cope with professional exams<br />
alongside your daily work load. We moni<strong>to</strong>r the progress<br />
of our trainees closely with formal individual reviews<br />
and a men<strong>to</strong>ring programme. We will provide you with<br />
comprehensive training, support for your professional<br />
examinations and assist you in developing practical and<br />
personal skills <strong>to</strong> progress in your day <strong>to</strong> day work. You<br />
will also have the opportunity <strong>to</strong> attend in-house training<br />
courses, giving you the ability <strong>to</strong> achieve and progress.<br />
No. of employees<br />
100<br />
No. of partners<br />
13<br />
No. of trainees<br />
22<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
5<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
8-10<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Relevant and non-relevant degrees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
What do we have <strong>to</strong> offer?<br />
You will be enrolled on a four year training contract<br />
leading through <strong>to</strong> ACA qualification and will be<br />
assigned a senior level men<strong>to</strong>r <strong>to</strong> guide you through<br />
all aspects of technical and practical training as<br />
well as familiarisation with working in a commercial<br />
environment. If you can demonstrate that you have what<br />
it takes <strong>to</strong> succeed, progress and salary packages will be<br />
reviewed twice a year as part of a formal review process.<br />
At Lubbock Fine we enjoy an active social programme,<br />
including summer team building, away days, festive<br />
parties, charitable sports and fundraising events.<br />
Our values<br />
Honesty, integrity, flair and imagination – people<br />
with just that little bit extra. Good interpersonal skills,<br />
a flexible outlook and a broad range of interests <strong>to</strong><br />
bring an added dimension <strong>to</strong> our business. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
88 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Miranda Cooney<br />
London<br />
Durham<br />
Natural Sciences<br />
Graduate Trainee<br />
Why did you choose Lubbock Fine?<br />
I was interested in medium-sized firms as I felt<br />
that the training would be high quality with<br />
a more personalised approach than, say, a<br />
larger firm. Due <strong>to</strong> there being a small intake<br />
of graduates here each year, we receive highly<br />
individual attention from managers and senior<br />
staff who take a keen interest in our careers<br />
and wellbeing. Lubbock Fine’s central London<br />
location was a huge selling point for me <strong>to</strong>o;<br />
Paternoster Square is very lively with lots <strong>to</strong><br />
do at lunchtime and after work. The stunning<br />
view of St Paul’s Cathedral from the office is<br />
always breathtaking!<br />
What was the application process like?<br />
I completed an initial application form and<br />
soon afterwards was invited for an assessment<br />
day, during which my numerical, verbal and<br />
communication skills were tested. Following<br />
this, an interview day was organised, which<br />
provided me with the opportunity <strong>to</strong> meet with<br />
other graduate applicants and ask questions<br />
about the firm. During my interview day, as<br />
well as meeting a number of partners, I met<br />
some of the other graduates and staff, some of<br />
who I now count as good friends.<br />
What experience have you gained?<br />
Since starting at Lubbock Fine, I have learned<br />
a lot about accountancy. Within the first six<br />
months of working, I was beginning <strong>to</strong> 'senior' on<br />
smaller accounts jobs. I didn’t have a background<br />
in accountancy before joining and I therefore<br />
learned a huge amount and made great strides<br />
in a short space of time. Since then, I have<br />
expanded my experience by completing accounts<br />
for different types of clients in a range of<br />
industries, using different accounting frameworks.<br />
The firm works across a variety of sec<strong>to</strong>rs with a<br />
range of clients which has given me exposure <strong>to</strong><br />
many different areas of work. This has helped me<br />
<strong>to</strong> acquire many different skills.<br />
What type of training have you had?<br />
As well as studying at college for the ACA exams,<br />
I receive in-house training, where we look at<br />
specific areas of accountancy or auditing in<br />
detail, and learn about the approach we should<br />
be taking <strong>to</strong> each job. I am assigned a men<strong>to</strong>r,<br />
who I meet with on a monthly basis <strong>to</strong> discuss<br />
my progress throughout my training contract.<br />
How do you rate the work/life balance?<br />
The work/life balance here is great. Whilst<br />
there is an emphasis on completing work <strong>to</strong><br />
the highest standard, everyone realises that we<br />
also need time <strong>to</strong> relax and have fun outside of<br />
work. We have a varied programme of social<br />
events, notably our Christmas party, our annual<br />
'away-day' and bi-annual charity quizzes. As well<br />
as this, we have fun department socials <strong>to</strong> get <strong>to</strong><br />
know everyone and do a bit of team-building.<br />
Is there anything specifically about Lubbock<br />
Fine that stands out <strong>to</strong> you?<br />
In my opinion, the friendly atmosphere and<br />
approachability of all staff, at all levels is<br />
outstanding. All the managers and senior staff<br />
are very willing <strong>to</strong> help and want <strong>to</strong> see all us<br />
graduates make the most of our time at the<br />
firm and progress as fast as possible. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
89
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
About Mazars<br />
Mazars is an international, integrated and independent<br />
organisation, specialising in audit, accountancy, tax,<br />
legal and advisory services. We are not only ranked as<br />
the eighth largest UK partnership by audit fee income,<br />
but we are also one of Europe’s largest accounting<br />
firms with a huge global presence, operating in over<br />
70 countries with over 250 offices worldwide.<br />
Obtaining your professional qualification is just the<br />
beginning! There are plenty of routes your career can<br />
take you. For example:<br />
• Progress <strong>to</strong> a managerial position<br />
• Work in one of our overseas offices<br />
• Specialise within your area of expertise<br />
• Transfer <strong>to</strong> another business area.<br />
Be part of something global, integrated and<br />
world class.<br />
We are looking for people who bring something<br />
special <strong>to</strong> the firm and who also have some distinctive<br />
qualities. We want driven people who think creatively<br />
about their work. We are looking for people who<br />
embrace challenges and can resolve complex<br />
problems. We are also looking for people who can<br />
work well with others and like <strong>to</strong> work amongst a<br />
diverse team of people from different backgrounds.<br />
The more we grow as individuals; the more<br />
Mazars grows.<br />
Mazars is all about people – we believe that each<br />
individual makes a difference <strong>to</strong> the Mazars culture.<br />
As an international firm with strong European<br />
roots, we are a melting pot of different cultures and<br />
disciplines. Diversity is one of our main strengths.<br />
Our firm has thrived because of the quality of our<br />
individuals – the work we do makes a long-term<br />
difference <strong>to</strong> our clients’ successes and goals, our rich<br />
culture has evolved from the firms that have come<br />
<strong>to</strong>gether <strong>to</strong> form Mazars.<br />
We all work within a culture of high support and high<br />
challenge at Mazars. We are not afraid <strong>to</strong> take on new<br />
and greater responsibilities. But we do this through<br />
encouragement – not pressure and competition. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
1,800 (UK), 18,000 (worldwide)<br />
No. of partners<br />
130<br />
No. of trainees<br />
200+<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
150<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
30<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Birmingham, Bris<strong>to</strong>l, Durham,<br />
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Leeds,<br />
Leicester, London, Manchester, Mil<strong>to</strong>n<br />
Keynes, Nottingham, Poole and Sut<strong>to</strong>n<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
90 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Our focus at Menzies is providing a #BrighterThinking<br />
approach, going the extra mile <strong>to</strong> keep clients on-track<br />
<strong>to</strong> achieve their personal and business objectives. As a<br />
<strong>to</strong>p 20 accountancy firm we have a passion for advising<br />
entrepreneurs and SMEs through our sec<strong>to</strong>r-led teams.<br />
We apply the same principles <strong>to</strong> individuals within<br />
the firm. Our people are ambitious, self-motivated<br />
and encouraged <strong>to</strong> develop their skill set and realise<br />
their potential.<br />
We operate out of a network of offices across Surrey,<br />
Hampshire, Cardiff and London, providing our clients<br />
with easy access and local knowledge. Many of our<br />
clients are expanding overseas and benefit from the<br />
outward perspective we can provide via our active<br />
membership of HLB International.<br />
#BrighterThinking is how we sum up the difference<br />
we make, as a firm, <strong>to</strong> our clients and in the way<br />
we hire and develop talent in Menzies. It’s finance<br />
and accounting expertise, combined with strategic<br />
commercial thinking and a promise <strong>to</strong> add real value<br />
across all areas of our clients’ businesses.<br />
We invest heavily in the training and development<br />
of our staff, helping them <strong>to</strong> achieve their aims and<br />
objectives and further their careers and Menzies LLP<br />
was voted one of the best Graduate Employers <strong>to</strong> work<br />
for in 2016/17 and in 2017/18, plus being recognised<br />
as a <strong>to</strong>p Apprenticeship Employer <strong>to</strong> work for in 2017<br />
with our award winning training and development<br />
programme. See our website for full details.<br />
All of our ACA, ACCA and ATT Graduates plus our AAT<br />
Apprentices work in small client assignment teams of<br />
three or four people. As you progress you will be given<br />
more responsibility, so that by your second year, for<br />
example, you will already be supervising other trainees.<br />
During the Graduate Programme you’ll receive<br />
paid study leave <strong>to</strong> attend all the tuition courses, in<br />
addition <strong>to</strong> your annual holiday. Your career with<br />
Menzies doesn’t just s<strong>to</strong>p once you complete your<br />
ACA, ACCA, ATT and AAT qualification. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
450<br />
No. of partners<br />
45<br />
No. of trainees<br />
90<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
30<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
10-15<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Accounting & finance, business<br />
management and economics<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London, Cardiff, Woking, Egham,<br />
Leatherhead, Farnborough & Whitely<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
92 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
Dare <strong>to</strong> be<br />
Remarkable<br />
Menzies LLP is looking for the brightest talent <strong>to</strong> join our<br />
Trainee Programmes 2018:<br />
ACA Graduate Training<br />
ACCA Insolvency Graduate Training<br />
ATT Tax Training<br />
AAT <strong>Accountancy</strong> Apprenticeship<br />
1 year ‘Rotation’ Placement Programme<br />
We are also looking for ambitious second year university students<br />
Interested?<br />
Apply online at menzies.co.uk/careers<br />
@Menzies<strong>Careers</strong><br />
/menziesllpcareersuk<br />
London | Surrey | Hampshire | Cardiff
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Mercer & Hole is a modern firm but with roots<br />
established in 1905 by the founding partner, William<br />
Mercer. Whilst Mercer & Hole initially provided<br />
just audit and accountancy services, linked <strong>to</strong> the<br />
necessary tax calculations and returns, we now work<br />
with business and private clients on many varied<br />
aspects of their financial affairs, for example, offering<br />
taxation and trust services, business development,<br />
corporate finance, financial services and rescue,<br />
recovery and insolvency services. One of the <strong>to</strong>p<br />
50 firms of accountants in the country, we are also<br />
one of the <strong>to</strong>p 20 firms for taxation services. Two of<br />
our number are former presidents of The <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Institute of Taxation and another is a leading UK<br />
lecturer in this field.<br />
In response <strong>to</strong> the increasingly international nature of<br />
business, Mercer & Hole became a founder member<br />
of The International Accounting Group (TIAG) and<br />
through this network and its sister network of legal<br />
firms TAGLaw, we can recommend firms <strong>to</strong> provide<br />
accounting and legal services abroad.<br />
As well as offering you the opportunity <strong>to</strong> work for<br />
an expanding and reputable firm, trainees are offered<br />
the following:<br />
• Full training, sponsorship and support for<br />
professional study (ACA)<br />
• Study leave<br />
• Competitive salary<br />
• Company pension scheme<br />
• Life assurance<br />
• Childcare vouchers<br />
• Career progression.<br />
No. of employees<br />
200<br />
No. of partners<br />
20<br />
No. of trainees<br />
39<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
10<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London, Mil<strong>to</strong>n Keynes, Rickmansworth<br />
and St Albans<br />
We offer trainee opportunities in audit/accountancy,<br />
taxation, corporate finance, outsourcing, and<br />
rescue, recovery and insolvency.<br />
Registered by the Institute of <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants in<br />
England & Wales <strong>to</strong> carry out audit work. Authorised<br />
and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
94 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
We're looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates who<br />
aspire <strong>to</strong> become chartered accountants. We have high<br />
standards and are looking for candidates with excellent<br />
academic qualifications as well as drive and ambition.<br />
Metric is a dynamic chartered accountancy firm that<br />
was established <strong>to</strong> help London’s growing technology<br />
sec<strong>to</strong>r; helping start-ups develop in<strong>to</strong> multinational<br />
groups. We have managed <strong>to</strong> do this by providing an<br />
excellent, tailored service. As a result, our clients seek<br />
a variety of services such as accounts preparation or<br />
audit. This means that Metric is able <strong>to</strong> offer talented<br />
graduates a wide range of experience which should<br />
broaden knowledge, enhance career prospects and<br />
improve earning potential. You will enter employment<br />
under a three year training contract, during which you<br />
will receive a practical experience while studying for<br />
your professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong><br />
the ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
No. of employees<br />
7<br />
No. of partners<br />
2<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
We are looking for:<br />
• Self-motivation and willingness <strong>to</strong> take responsibility<br />
• Self-confidence and the ability <strong>to</strong> use initiative<br />
• Adaptability and a sociable personality<br />
• A keen interest in technology<br />
• Excitement <strong>to</strong> work with entrepreneurs and startups<br />
• Leadership and management potential<br />
• Preferably the ability <strong>to</strong> speak a second<br />
European language<br />
• A preference for a breadth of experience (e.g.<br />
bookkeeping, accounts, tax, company secretarial<br />
work and audit, rather than specialising in one<br />
stream initially).<br />
In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent study and benefits package, with salary<br />
increases based on exam and work performances.<br />
Additional benefits include pension contributions and<br />
Perkbox. Add <strong>to</strong> this the opportunities and varied<br />
lifestyle that working in the Capital has <strong>to</strong> offer and<br />
it all adds up <strong>to</strong> a very rewarding opportunity. Metric<br />
is seeking individuals who have the potential and<br />
desire <strong>to</strong> make a huge, positive contribution <strong>to</strong> the<br />
technology and business sec<strong>to</strong>rs. If that sounds like<br />
you, apply <strong>to</strong>day! •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
95
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Moore Stephens is a <strong>to</strong>p ten accounting and advisory<br />
network, with offices throughout the UK and members<br />
across the globe. Our clients range from individuals<br />
and entrepreneurs, through <strong>to</strong> large organisations and<br />
complex international businesses. We partner with<br />
them, supporting their aspirations and contributing <strong>to</strong><br />
their success. Clients have access <strong>to</strong> a range of bespoke<br />
services and solutions and our in-depth understanding<br />
allows us <strong>to</strong> deliver focused accounting and advisory<br />
solutions. Our success stems from our industry<br />
focus, which enables us <strong>to</strong> provide an innovative and<br />
personal service <strong>to</strong> our clients in a range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Moore Stephens International is a <strong>to</strong>p ten global<br />
accountancy and consulting network. By combining local<br />
expertise and experience with the breadth of our UK<br />
and worldwide networks, clients can be confident that,<br />
whatever their needs, we provide the right solutions.<br />
Opportunities<br />
Moore Stephens offer graduate and apprenticeship<br />
programmes, starting each September and January.<br />
You could join our audit, tax or outsourcing<br />
departments, having the opportunity <strong>to</strong> learn from<br />
experienced professionals, work directly with clients<br />
and gain a recognised qualification. We also offer<br />
one year sandwich placements in<strong>to</strong> our audit and<br />
marketing departments starting each summer.<br />
We recognise that our growth and future success<br />
will be driven by the quality of our people. We are<br />
committed <strong>to</strong> developing your career by offering:<br />
• Structured training both for recognised<br />
professional qualifications and management skills.<br />
• The opportunity <strong>to</strong> work on a diverse portfolio of<br />
clients, gaining a range of experience.<br />
• Regular feedback on your progress with clear<br />
steps on how <strong>to</strong> develop in your role.<br />
• National and international client exposure.<br />
• Many different opportunities <strong>to</strong> support our<br />
corporate social responsibility scheme – including<br />
raising money for our charity of the year.<br />
The life of a trainee at Moore Stephens is a busy one;<br />
full of client work, travel, study and socialising! •<br />
No. of employees<br />
900<br />
No. of partners<br />
80<br />
No. of trainees<br />
170<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
50<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
30<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London, Reading and Birmingham<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
96 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Based in London, Nyman Libson Paul is the leading<br />
advisor <strong>to</strong> the UK Entertainment & Media industry.<br />
Over the years we have looked after some of the<br />
biggest and brightest stars and projects in the Film,<br />
TV, Music and Theatre sec<strong>to</strong>rs which continues <strong>to</strong> this<br />
day. Our knowledge and expertise has developed in<strong>to</strong><br />
the Animation, Video Games and Digital sec<strong>to</strong>rs as we<br />
continue <strong>to</strong> evolve with our client base.<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates, who<br />
aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants, <strong>to</strong> enter in<strong>to</strong><br />
a three year training contract with us. We have high<br />
standards and are looking for candidates with excellent<br />
academic qualifications as well as drive and ambition.<br />
What you can expect<br />
You will not be tethered <strong>to</strong> your desk labouring over<br />
never-ending jobs. Instead, our students deal directly<br />
with a range of clients from major film and television<br />
production and distribution companies, West End<br />
theatres, cinema and media personalities through <strong>to</strong><br />
manufacturing companies, hotels, restaurants and<br />
professional firms.<br />
No. of employees<br />
90<br />
No. of partners<br />
15<br />
No. of trainees<br />
18<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
6<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and South East<br />
We encourage our staff <strong>to</strong> provide fast, imaginative and<br />
practical solutions <strong>to</strong> our clients’ business problems<br />
and while liaising with our tax department, you will be<br />
involved in both corporate and personal tax issues.<br />
A full training programme is provided through our<br />
training partner (SWAT UK) who will also administer<br />
your accountancy training and ICAEW exams, with<br />
one of the leading accountancy tu<strong>to</strong>rs in London.<br />
Paid study leave is granted and your course and first<br />
attempt examination fees are paid for.<br />
You’ll enjoy a competitive salary and an excellent<br />
package (with salary increases based on exam<br />
and work performances). We will encourage you<br />
<strong>to</strong> maximise your potential, as our emphasis is on<br />
internal promotion <strong>to</strong> both manager and partner level.<br />
Apply <strong>to</strong>day if this sounds like the opportunity for you! •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
97
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
PKF Littlejohn LLP is an independent firm of chartered<br />
accountants and business advisers based in London’s<br />
Canary Wharf.<br />
We are one of the largest single office practices in the<br />
UK and provide a full range of audit, accountancy, tax<br />
and advisory services <strong>to</strong> a broad range of clients.<br />
Our specialists help clients overcome the challenges<br />
they face through a comprehensive commercial and<br />
technical understanding of their businesses and a high<br />
level of partner involvement.<br />
Our strength? We are medium-sized by choice.<br />
We combine the efficiency and technical expertise<br />
you'd expect of a major firm, with the intellectual<br />
and personal skills required <strong>to</strong> build close, successful<br />
client relationships.<br />
The firm is a member of PKF International, a network<br />
of legally independent member firms located in<br />
around 125 countries throughout the world.<br />
Sec<strong>to</strong>rs of expertise<br />
International businesses – in addition <strong>to</strong> advising<br />
many UK SMEs with international expansion plans,<br />
we work with inward inves<strong>to</strong>rs ranging from branches<br />
of overseas businesses <strong>to</strong> subsidiary companies of<br />
multinational organisations, advising at all stages of<br />
the business life-cycle.<br />
No. of employees<br />
250<br />
No. of partners<br />
34<br />
No. of trainees<br />
55<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
18<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
10<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
Any<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Canary Wharf (London)<br />
Capital markets – businesses looking <strong>to</strong> list on the<br />
London capital markets can call on our expertise in<br />
bringing companies <strong>to</strong> London’s AIM market from all<br />
over the world.<br />
Insurance/financial services – we have one of the<br />
largest insurance teams outside of the ‘Big Four’<br />
and are leaders in providing services <strong>to</strong> insurers and<br />
brokers in the London Market.<br />
Charities and not-for-profit – we work with charities<br />
of all sizes, both 'registered' and 'exempt', including<br />
those working in education, social enterprise, and<br />
overseas humanitarian and development aid. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
98 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Rayner Essex has been established for 50 years and<br />
is a dynamic, medium-sized firm with offices in St<br />
Albans and central London. We provide the full<br />
range of professional services typically provided<br />
by an established and progressive accountancy<br />
firm, including audit and accounts, management<br />
consultancy, payroll and taxation.<br />
We aim <strong>to</strong> be the ‘go <strong>to</strong>’ firm for small and medium-sized<br />
enterprises providing a truly excellent professional service<br />
that is tailored <strong>to</strong> meet clients’ needs and requirements.<br />
Our clients range from all fields of business, industry, the<br />
professions and arts, including large corporates operating<br />
nationally and internationally, privately owned businesses<br />
of every size, partnerships, sole traders, self-employed<br />
individuals and charities.<br />
We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit a number of graduates,<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We<br />
have high standards and are looking for candidates<br />
with excellent academic qualifications as well as drive<br />
and ambition. The recruitment of high quality staff<br />
is crucial <strong>to</strong> the continued success of our firm. To<br />
achieve this we recruit people who share our values<br />
and are driven <strong>to</strong> make a positive impact.<br />
No. of employees<br />
69 (excl. Partners)<br />
No. of partners<br />
7<br />
No. of trainees<br />
5<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
1-2<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and St Albans<br />
In return, you will enjoy a competitive salary and an<br />
excellent study and benefits package, with salary<br />
increases based on exam and work performances.<br />
Add <strong>to</strong> this the opportunities and varied lifestyle that<br />
working in the South East has <strong>to</strong> offer and it all adds<br />
up <strong>to</strong> a very rewarding opportunity.<br />
You will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
You will be given paid study leave and we also cover the<br />
costs of all courses and examinations for first attempts.<br />
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding<br />
career, please apply <strong>to</strong>day. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
99
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Rees Pollock was formed in 1990 by a team of<br />
experienced partners and managers from Ernst &<br />
Young. Twenty-six years later we have developed a<br />
firm that is widely recognised as a leading financial<br />
adviser <strong>to</strong> businesses with turnovers of between<br />
£1 million and £50 million, and have won the title<br />
‘Small <strong>Accountancy</strong> Firm of the Year’. We combine<br />
the technical expertise of the larger firms with the<br />
personal attention and approachability of a small firm.<br />
You will obtain a wide variety of work experience at<br />
Rees Pollock. We have particular experience in the<br />
media, retail, restaurants and financial sec<strong>to</strong>rs. We<br />
encourage our students <strong>to</strong> think for themselves and<br />
use their initiative. Responsibility is given relatively<br />
early, although assistance and encouragement are<br />
never far away.<br />
Rees Pollock recognises that training is one of the most<br />
important criteria when choosing an employer. We have<br />
therefore tailored our package <strong>to</strong> ensure you obtain<br />
the best all-round experience by using a combination<br />
of BPP, other specialist training organisations, and our<br />
own in house and on-the-job training. This has led<br />
<strong>to</strong> excellent exam pass rates and <strong>to</strong> a number of our<br />
students obtaining prizes in their exams.<br />
No. of employees<br />
50<br />
No. of partners<br />
7<br />
No. of trainees<br />
17<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
5-6<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London<br />
We welcome applications from graduates of any<br />
discipline with a consistent record of achievement. We<br />
are looking for strong communication and analytical<br />
skills and a willingness <strong>to</strong> contribute both <strong>to</strong> the work<br />
itself and the atmosphere of the firm. In return our<br />
trainees obtain excellent training and the opportunity<br />
<strong>to</strong> work with a group of very bright people for an<br />
exciting range of clients. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
100 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Jade Ea<strong>to</strong>n<br />
London<br />
Warwick<br />
MMORSE<br />
Trainee <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant<br />
What is Rees Pollock’s application process?<br />
Having emailed my covering letter, CV and<br />
application form, I was invited <strong>to</strong> the office<br />
<strong>to</strong> sit a maths test. Immediately after passing<br />
this, I had my first interview with a manager,<br />
which was very relaxed; Rees Pollock won’t<br />
bombard you with the usual competency-based<br />
questions, they are interested in getting <strong>to</strong><br />
know you as an individual.<br />
After this interview, I met with a current<br />
trainee who was happy <strong>to</strong> answer further<br />
questions relating <strong>to</strong> the job and studying for<br />
the ACA qualification. The last stage in the<br />
application process was a second interview,<br />
this time with a partner but just as relaxed,<br />
and another chance <strong>to</strong> meet a trainee.<br />
What’s the first year at Rees Pollock like?<br />
My first two weeks were at BPP college,<br />
studying for two of the six certificate-level<br />
exams. Within the first seven months of<br />
starting, I sat all the certificate-level and<br />
three of the six professional-level exams.<br />
While this was very intense, it was useful <strong>to</strong><br />
quickly assimilate knowledge that could be<br />
applied in the office.<br />
As soon as I started in the office, I was<br />
involved in audits and visiting clients.<br />
Although this was slightly unnerving, it<br />
is the best way <strong>to</strong> gain experience and<br />
build confidence. The job is challenging,<br />
however everybody at Rees Pollock – from<br />
fellow trainees up <strong>to</strong> the partners – is very<br />
approachable and friendly, offering lots of<br />
help along the way.<br />
I’m usually on a different audit every week,<br />
so I’ve experienced a variety of industries,<br />
including finance, retail and restaurants. Plus,<br />
being part of a smaller firm allows you <strong>to</strong> be<br />
involved in all areas of an audit.<br />
Finally...<br />
Rees Pollock’s greatest asset is its people.<br />
There is a strong sense of community spirit,<br />
which is shown through the variety of events<br />
that are organised throughout the year:<br />
rounders at Hyde Park in the summer, plenty<br />
of student nights, and regular trips <strong>to</strong> the<br />
pub with all our staff! A conference is also<br />
held every September. My first one involved<br />
climbing Mount Snowdon; a great way <strong>to</strong><br />
bond with my colleagues! •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
101
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Welcome <strong>to</strong> RSM<br />
As one of the largest networks of audit, tax and<br />
consulting firms in the world, we help school leavers<br />
and graduates kick-start their career in business.<br />
Whether you join us in audit, tax, consulting,<br />
corporate finance, risk advisory or accounting,<br />
you’ll enjoy a powerful combination of on-the-job<br />
learning and structured training – not <strong>to</strong> mention<br />
an impressive client list <strong>to</strong> work with. We support<br />
organisations across a wide range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs, so you<br />
could be working with premier league footballers<br />
and tech start-ups one day, and charities and<br />
multinationals the next.<br />
When you join RSM, you’ll discover a culture that<br />
nurtures individuality and celebrates fresh thinking.<br />
You’ll find an environment where everyone is<br />
supported <strong>to</strong> reach their potential, with personalised<br />
training that fits your goals and annual salary reviews.<br />
With us, you’ll always be moving forward.<br />
And with access <strong>to</strong> a global network spanning more<br />
than 120 countries, you’ll have a world of opportunity<br />
<strong>to</strong> build the career you want.<br />
No. of employees<br />
3,250<br />
No. of partners<br />
250<br />
No. of trainees<br />
c. 280<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
200<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
80<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Nationwide<br />
It’s your future. Own it at RSM. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
102 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
PERSONALITIES WANTED<br />
GET THE CAREER YOU WANT AT RSM<br />
Your voice will always be heard at RSM. Join our global network and discover a<br />
culture that nurtures individuality and celebrates fresh thinking.<br />
It’s your future. Own it at RSM.<br />
Apply at rsmuk.com/careers/students<br />
The UK group of companies and LLPs trading as RSM is a member of the RSM network. RSM is the trading name used by the members of<br />
the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent accounting and consulting firm each of which practises in its own<br />
right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity of any description in any jurisdiction. The RSM network is administered by RSM<br />
International Limited, a company registered in England and Wales (company number 4040598) whose registered office is at 50 Cannon<br />
Street, London EC4N 6JJ. The brand and trademark RSM and other intellectual property rights used by members of the network are owned by<br />
RSM International Association, an association governed by article 60 et seq of the Civil Code of Switzerland whose seat is in Zug.
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
About Saffery Champness<br />
As a <strong>to</strong>p 20 UK accountancy firm, and advisers <strong>to</strong><br />
some of the UK’s wealthiest individuals, Saffery<br />
Champness is a dynamic and exciting place <strong>to</strong> launch<br />
your career.<br />
Through hard work and innovative thinking – <strong>to</strong> say<br />
nothing of the personal <strong>to</strong>uch which has long been<br />
our trademark – we have achieved strong market<br />
positions across a range of sec<strong>to</strong>rs, but particularly<br />
private clients.<br />
Our style is personal and we value our strong client<br />
relationships and genuinely partner-led service.<br />
Providing excellent training and development<br />
opportunities for staff is an important part of what<br />
we do, as our long-standing Inves<strong>to</strong>rs in People<br />
accreditation demonstrates. We are also very proud <strong>to</strong><br />
have been named as one of Britain’s Top Employers<br />
for the fourteenth consecutive year.<br />
Our trainees<br />
As one of our trainees, you can play a major part in<br />
our ongoing success s<strong>to</strong>ry. From early on in your<br />
time with us, you will be entrusted with real client<br />
assignments and real responsibilities. In return,<br />
we will support you with our first-class training<br />
and development programme, designed <strong>to</strong> lay the<br />
foundations for an exceptional career.<br />
On-the-job training<br />
Our trainees will complete a three-year training<br />
contract with a view <strong>to</strong> becoming an ACA/CA qualified<br />
accountant. You will have exciting development<br />
opportunities available where you can build your<br />
knowledge in many of the sec<strong>to</strong>rs in which we<br />
operate. You will work in a friendly and progressive<br />
environment, within teams of varying sizes. From early<br />
on you will be given responsibility, dealing with a range<br />
of clients including private clients, individuals from the<br />
entertainment world, family estates or charities. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
500+<br />
No. of partners<br />
70 (UK)<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
35<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
See website<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degrees considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Bournemouth, Bris<strong>to</strong>l, Edinburgh,<br />
Harrogate, High Wycombe, Inverness,<br />
London, Manchester and Peterborough<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
104 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
TRAINEE PROFILE<br />
NAME<br />
LOCATION<br />
UNIVERSITY<br />
DEGREE<br />
ROLE<br />
Alistair Reid<br />
Inverness<br />
St Andrews<br />
Management<br />
Trainee <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant –<br />
Accounts and Audit<br />
Why did you apply for Saffery Champness?<br />
I joined Saffery Champness in April 2015 and<br />
began my training contract in the September.<br />
The study package was the most important<br />
element for me when looking for a graduate<br />
role and I was really impressed by what<br />
Saffery Champness had <strong>to</strong> offer. The support<br />
on offer was excellent and the timetable for<br />
progression was ideally suited <strong>to</strong> my needs.<br />
How would you describe the culture of<br />
Saffery Champness?<br />
The culture at Saffery Champness is one<br />
which really looks after its people. I have<br />
experienced this through the support I<br />
have received with my studies, the internal<br />
training courses I attend and the day <strong>to</strong> day<br />
opportunities I am given. At its core, it is a<br />
traditional firm with a long his<strong>to</strong>ry but from<br />
my experience I would describe it as forward<br />
looking and progressive.<br />
How have you found the training contract?<br />
As I am training at one of the firm's Scottish<br />
offices, I am currently studying <strong>to</strong>wards<br />
the CA qualification with ICAS, the oldest<br />
accountancy body in the world. I have found<br />
the qualification <strong>to</strong> be challenging but also<br />
rewarding and worthwhile. It definitely gives<br />
you a solid grounding in accounting and I<br />
often find the <strong>to</strong>pics covered in lectures come<br />
up in my daily work in the office. For me it is<br />
extremely beneficial as it not only provides me<br />
with a great deal of knowledge but it also gives<br />
me an internationally-recognised qualification<br />
that I can take with me for the rest of my life.<br />
Does the firm offer you the support<br />
necessary <strong>to</strong> do this studying?<br />
The training package on offer really is<br />
excellent. I attend face <strong>to</strong> face classes on block<br />
release, have study leave <strong>to</strong> do self-study<br />
modules, and I get time off before exams.<br />
There are also a lot of qualified staff in the<br />
office and a number of recently qualified<br />
seniors – who have just completed the<br />
process so know exactly what it is like – so<br />
there is always someone <strong>to</strong> go <strong>to</strong> if I have any<br />
difficulties with a <strong>to</strong>pic. •<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
105
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Shipleys is a firm of <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants and<br />
professional business advisors, based in London’s<br />
glamorous West End. We are looking <strong>to</strong> recruit graduates<br />
who aspire <strong>to</strong> become <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants. We are<br />
a medium-sized firm and every member of our team<br />
makes an important contribution. Our approach is very<br />
much based on individuals and their aspirations. Whilst<br />
the firm is well known in a number of niche markets<br />
such as film and television, overall we look after a wide<br />
range of clients so there is plenty of opportunity <strong>to</strong> build<br />
experience with clients in many different industries.<br />
We offer…<br />
• Competitive salary, benefits and training package.<br />
• Friendly, informal working environment and<br />
regular contact with senior staff and partners.<br />
• A keen interest in how you are progressing, with<br />
men<strong>to</strong>ring from those who’ve been there before.<br />
• Brilliant work experience – initial experience in<br />
audit, accountancy and taxation will be gained in<br />
a wide variety of real client situations.<br />
• Opportunities <strong>to</strong> develop your career in<strong>to</strong><br />
different specialisations or industry sec<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
No. of employees<br />
c. 110<br />
No. of partners<br />
13<br />
No. of trainees<br />
c. 19<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
Varies<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
London and Godalming (Surrey)<br />
What we expect from you…<br />
• Competitive<br />
• Self-motivation and willingness <strong>to</strong> take responsibility.<br />
• Self-confidence and ability <strong>to</strong> use initiative<br />
• Adaptable and sociable personality with the<br />
knack of communicating well with people at all<br />
levels <strong>to</strong> earn credibility with colleagues and<br />
clients (orally and in writing).<br />
• Ability <strong>to</strong> work with others as part of a team.<br />
• High ethical standards and honesty.<br />
• Leadership and management potential.<br />
• Professional manner and appearance.<br />
• Good IT skills.<br />
You will enter employment under a three year training<br />
contract, during which you will receive a wide range<br />
of practical experience while studying for your<br />
professional examinations; all of which leads <strong>to</strong> the<br />
ICAEW (ACA) <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountant qualification.<br />
People work hard when they are here, but we do<br />
expect them <strong>to</strong> go home! •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
106 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
At Smith & Williamson we have been providing<br />
independent, first-class financial advice <strong>to</strong> clients for<br />
over 100 years. Today, we are unique in the market,<br />
offering investment management, financial advisory<br />
and accountancy services as well as private banking.<br />
It’s not just the breadth of our expertise that makes<br />
us stand out. Professional practices, corporates,<br />
non-profit organisations and individuals value the<br />
premium we put on our client relationships. People<br />
are the corners<strong>to</strong>ne of our business – and that<br />
includes our employees.<br />
To provide the service our clients expect, we know<br />
our trusted business advisers need an empowering<br />
and supportive work environment. With 13 offices in<br />
the UK, Ireland and Jersey, and global reach through<br />
membership of Nexia International, we’re big enough<br />
<strong>to</strong> be competitive. Yet our size means you’ll be part<br />
of a friendly, enthusiastic team – and get <strong>to</strong> know<br />
colleagues across the firm.<br />
We know that investing in the careers of our trainees is<br />
essential <strong>to</strong> our continued success. That’s why we have<br />
a real commitment <strong>to</strong> developing the next generation<br />
of trusted business advisers across our firm.<br />
No. of employees<br />
1,700+<br />
No. of partners<br />
244<br />
No. of trainees<br />
120<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 INTERNSHIPS<br />
4 PLACEMENTS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
40<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All disciplines<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Belfast, Birmingham, Bris<strong>to</strong>l,<br />
Dublin, Guildford, London, Salisbury<br />
and Southamp<strong>to</strong>n<br />
For our trainees <strong>to</strong> flourish, personally and<br />
professionally, we have <strong>to</strong> attract, grow and retain<br />
our talent. Our trainees enjoy exposure <strong>to</strong> a variety of<br />
client-facing work, with responsibility from an early<br />
stage, along with high-quality professional training. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
107
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
About us<br />
Do you aspire <strong>to</strong> join a modern and dynamic firm? Then<br />
why not join us! As an ambitious and progressive award<br />
winning <strong>to</strong>p 15 group of UK chartered accountants, we<br />
have a strong national and international network.<br />
Each trainee is given responsibility from day one and<br />
has the chance <strong>to</strong> stretch their talents and experience<br />
a wide diversity of work. Our trainees deal with a<br />
variety of clients; from very small companies through<br />
<strong>to</strong> what we call the ‘dynamic mid-market’ businesses,<br />
including AIM and fully listed public entities. The<br />
recruitment experience may vary slightly from office<br />
<strong>to</strong> office, however, we all share one vision and the<br />
same intrinsic values.<br />
What makes us a great employer?<br />
From the outset, you will receive exposure <strong>to</strong> a varied<br />
portfolio of clients, as well as access <strong>to</strong> the best<br />
training available. Our trainees always tell us that<br />
the culture and family spirit is one of the best firm<br />
attributes we provide and Lachlan, a graduate within<br />
our London office, strongly agrees: 'Everyone enjoys<br />
being surrounded by so many familiar faces back at<br />
our home ground, and the mood is always jovial.' As<br />
an approved training office for the ICAEW, we are<br />
considered a leading trainer within the accountancy<br />
profession. But don’t just take our word for it; read the<br />
unedited experiences of our current staff on our early<br />
careers site at: www.uhy-earlycareers.com<br />
No. of employees<br />
874 nationally<br />
No. of partners<br />
110<br />
No. of trainees<br />
190+<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
45<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
See website<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All degree disciplines considered<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Nationwide<br />
What we’re looking for<br />
We are looking for the partners of the future – someone<br />
who has excellent communication skills and the ability <strong>to</strong><br />
actively engage with clients. Someone that is ambitious,<br />
passionate and wants <strong>to</strong> progress within the practice.<br />
Development and career progression<br />
We are dedicated <strong>to</strong> your professional development<br />
and so have established a men<strong>to</strong>ring programme <strong>to</strong><br />
support our trainees. We have a genuine passion for<br />
our students <strong>to</strong> succeed, not only through exams but<br />
in your future career with us. We are passionate about<br />
and committed <strong>to</strong> our staff, and will always try <strong>to</strong><br />
promote internally; even as far as partner level. •<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
108 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY<br />
Who are we?<br />
Wilkins Kennedy LLP is a <strong>to</strong>p 20 firm of <strong>Chartered</strong><br />
Accountants and Business Advisers with 17 offices,<br />
providing a full range of accounting and business<br />
advisory services.<br />
Established in 1882, we have an excellent reputation<br />
for assessing individual and business needs in a<br />
changing marketplace and delivering intelligent,<br />
practical financial solutions.<br />
Why train with us?<br />
Our career path allows you <strong>to</strong> make your mark on<br />
the firm and seize opportunities as they arise. We're<br />
looking for people with enquiring, lively minds and a<br />
strong sense of commitment. We’ll give you the skills<br />
<strong>to</strong> interpret financial data and really get <strong>to</strong> grips with<br />
an organisation and how it functions, and then offer<br />
relevant, realistic advice <strong>to</strong> our clients. You’ll be part<br />
of a team passionate about delivering a technically<br />
superior and uniquely personal client service. You’ll<br />
learn on-the-job and be able <strong>to</strong> take responsibility for<br />
clients early on.<br />
Using specialist accountancy tu<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> help you<br />
prepare for, and pass, your exams, you’ll enjoy a<br />
combination of courses and home study throughout<br />
the duration of your training contract. We’ll also<br />
provide you with the relevant soft skills <strong>to</strong> develop<br />
as a business professional. In addition, you'll acquire<br />
strong IT, communication and management skills.<br />
Why stay with us?<br />
Once qualified, you can really start <strong>to</strong> enjoy life as a<br />
qualified professional. We will continue <strong>to</strong> provide<br />
ongoing technical and soft skills training as part of our<br />
post qualification development programme. We will<br />
ensure you continue <strong>to</strong> grow and add <strong>to</strong> your bank<br />
of experience, with the aim of providing you with an<br />
excellent grounding for your future.<br />
If you enjoy a challenge, want <strong>to</strong> make a difference <strong>to</strong><br />
your clients and are set for a career in accountancy, then<br />
please visit our website <strong>to</strong> contact us and/or apply. •<br />
No. of employees<br />
600+<br />
No. of partners<br />
76<br />
No. of trainees<br />
140+<br />
Opportunities available<br />
4 GRADUATE JOBS<br />
4 SCHOOL LEAVER SCHEMES<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
20<br />
No. of undergraduate opportunities<br />
20<br />
Disciplines recruited from<br />
All<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
17 regional offices across the<br />
South of England<br />
For application deadlines, the<br />
latest jobs and events visit:<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
109
JOB FINDER<br />
TYPES OF<br />
OPPORTUNITIES<br />
Company<br />
No. of employees<br />
No. of partners<br />
No. of trainees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Graduate jobs<br />
Internships<br />
Placements<br />
Insights<br />
School leaver schemes<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
No. of undergraduate roles<br />
Further info (page)<br />
264 16 35<br />
South West<br />
locations<br />
4 8 4 8 4 10 10 54<br />
c. 80 13 13<br />
London &<br />
Guildford<br />
4 8 8 8 8 3 – 55<br />
280 4 6<br />
Manchester<br />
with national<br />
travel<br />
4 4 4 8 8 6 2 56<br />
150 20 40<br />
Multiple<br />
London<br />
locations<br />
4 8 8 8 8 15 – 58<br />
3,500<br />
(UK)<br />
350 750 Nationwide 4 4 8 4 4 200 40 60<br />
211 33 29 London 4 8 8 8 4 12 5 62<br />
48 8 13 London 4 8 8 8 8 2 – 64<br />
85 20 18 London 4 8 8 8 8 4 – 66<br />
110 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
JOB FINDER<br />
TYPES OF<br />
OPPORTUNITIES<br />
Company<br />
No. of employees<br />
No. of partners<br />
No. of trainees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Graduate jobs<br />
Internships<br />
Placements<br />
Insights<br />
School leaver schemes<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
No. of undergraduate roles<br />
Further info (page)<br />
64 15 11 London 4 8 8 8 8 4-6 – 68<br />
15,000+ 726 1,600+ Nationwide 4 4 4 4 4 900 535 70<br />
110 17 22<br />
London &<br />
Braintree<br />
(Essex)<br />
4 8 8 8 8 4-6 – 72<br />
c.4,500<br />
(UK)<br />
– – Nationwide 4 4 4 8 4 200 100 73<br />
85 12 4<br />
Lough<strong>to</strong>n<br />
(E. London)<br />
4 8 8 8 8 Varies – 74<br />
Varies – – South East 4 8 8 8 4<br />
Up <strong>to</strong><br />
60<br />
Up<br />
<strong>to</strong> 8<br />
76<br />
200+ 32 24 London 4 8 4 8 4 24 3 77<br />
280 25 60<br />
Cheltenham<br />
& Staver<strong>to</strong>n<br />
(Glos)<br />
4 4 4 8 4 20 10 78<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
111
JOB FINDER<br />
TYPES OF<br />
OPPORTUNITIES<br />
Company<br />
No. of employees<br />
No. of partners<br />
No. of trainees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Graduate jobs<br />
Internships<br />
Placements<br />
Insights<br />
School leaver schemes<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
No. of undergraduate roles<br />
Further info (page)<br />
120+ 17 25 Watford 4 8 4 8 8 8 3 80<br />
320 36 50 London 4 8 8 8 4 16-18 Varies 82<br />
530 63 110<br />
London &<br />
South East<br />
4 8 8 8 4 40 – 84<br />
35 6 11<br />
London &<br />
Surrey<br />
4 8 8 8 8 2 – 85<br />
550+ 53 126<br />
London, Kent<br />
& Sussex<br />
4 4 4 8 4 Varies Varies 86<br />
100 13 22 London 4 4 8 8 4 5 8-10 88<br />
1,800<br />
(UK)<br />
130 200+ Nationwide 4 4 4 8 4 150 30 90<br />
450 45 90<br />
London,<br />
Cardiff & the<br />
South East<br />
4 8 4 8 4 30 10-15 92<br />
112 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
JOB FINDER<br />
TYPES OF<br />
OPPORTUNITIES<br />
Company<br />
No. of employees<br />
No. of partners<br />
No. of trainees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Graduate jobs<br />
Internships<br />
Placements<br />
Insights<br />
School leaver schemes<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
No. of undergraduate roles<br />
Further info (page)<br />
200 20 39<br />
London &<br />
South East<br />
4 8 8 8 4 10 Varies 94<br />
7 2 – London 4 8 8 8 8 Varies – 95<br />
900 80 170<br />
London,<br />
Reading &<br />
Birmingham<br />
4 4 4 8 4 50 30 96<br />
90 15 18<br />
London &<br />
South East<br />
4 8 8 8 8 6 – 97<br />
250 34 55<br />
Canary Wharf<br />
(London)<br />
4 4 8 8 4 18 10 98<br />
69 7 5<br />
London &<br />
St Albans<br />
4 8 8 8 8 1-2 – 99<br />
50 7 17 London 4 8 8 8 8 5-6 – 100<br />
3,250 250 c. 280 Nationwide 4 4 4 8 4 200 80 102<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
113
JOB FINDER<br />
TYPES OF<br />
OPPORTUNITIES<br />
Company<br />
No. of employees<br />
No. of partners<br />
No. of trainees<br />
Offices recruited in<strong>to</strong><br />
Graduate jobs<br />
Internships<br />
Placements<br />
Insights<br />
School leaver schemes<br />
No. of graduate jobs<br />
No. of undergraduate roles<br />
Further info (page)<br />
500+ 70 – Nationwide 4 4 8 8 4 35<br />
See<br />
website<br />
104<br />
c. 110 13 c. 19<br />
London &<br />
Godalming<br />
(Surrey)<br />
4 8 8 8 8 Varies – 106<br />
1,700+ 244 120 Nationwide 4 4 4 8 4 40 – 107<br />
874 110 190+ Nationwide 4 8 8 8 4 45 – 108<br />
600+ 76 140+ South East 4 8 8 8 4 20 20 109<br />
114 <strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc
100s Jobs<br />
Find your dream <strong>Accountancy</strong><br />
role online <strong>to</strong>day.<br />
GRADUATE JOBS | INTERNSHIPS & PLACEMENTS | ADVICE<br />
www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
<strong>Accountancy</strong> | www.insidecareers.co.uk/acc<br />
115
NOTES<br />
Publisher: Cambridge Market Intelligence Ltd, Thorn<strong>to</strong>n House, Thorn<strong>to</strong>n Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4NG.<br />
T: 0208 405 6412 | www.insidecareers.co.uk<br />
Edi<strong>to</strong>rial: Emma Braithwaite<br />
Associate Publisher: ICAEW, <strong>Chartered</strong> Accountants’ Hall, Moorgate Place, London, EC2 6EA.<br />
T: 01908 248 250 | www.icaew.com/careers<br />
Acknowledgments: We are indebted <strong>to</strong> ICAEW for their support, in particular <strong>to</strong> Adam Moore for his help<br />
throughout the preparation of the guide and for reviewing the text for balance and accuracy.<br />
ISBN 978-1-911394-00-6<br />
Printed and bound in the UK by Cambrian Printers, Aberystwyth<br />
Pages 10-11; 24: Piggy bank icon made by Madebyoliver from www.flaticon.com; Internet icon made by Flat<br />
Icons from www.flaticon.com; Cityscape icon made by Roundicons from www.flaticon.com. Sprout icon made by<br />
Icon Pond from www.flaticon.com. Open book and Star icon made by Freepik from www.flaticon.com.<br />
Copyright in individual articles © 2017 the authors, who have asserted their right <strong>to</strong> be identified as the author under s.7<br />
of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. The compilation © 2017 Cambridge Market Intelligence Ltd. All rights<br />
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, s<strong>to</strong>red in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by<br />
any means electronic, mechanical, pho<strong>to</strong>copying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the copyright<br />
owner. While every effort has been made <strong>to</strong> ensure its accuracy, no responsibility for loss occasioned <strong>to</strong> any person<br />
acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication can be accepted by the publisher or authors.
BE INSPIRED<br />
TO D<br />
WO<br />
O RK<br />
GREAT<br />
Graduate Opportunities at BDO<br />
We know how <strong>to</strong> empower people<br />
<strong>to</strong> be the best they can be. Quite<br />
simply, we let them. We look for<br />
individuals with real potential and<br />
we help them put this in<strong>to</strong> practice,<br />
turning our clients’ business dreams<br />
in<strong>to</strong> practical realities.<br />
Be inspired at<br />
BDOEarlyinCareer.co.uk
PERSONALITIES WANTED<br />
GET THE CAREER YOU WANT AT RSM<br />
Your voice will always be heard at RSM. Join our global network and discover a<br />
culture that nurtures individuality and celebrates fresh thinking.<br />
It’s your future. Own it at RSM.<br />
Apply at rsmuk.com/careers/students<br />
The UK group of companies and LLPs trading as RSM is a member of the RSM network. RSM is the trading name used by the members of<br />
the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent accounting and consulting firm each of which practises in its own<br />
right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity of any description in any jurisdiction. The RSM network is administered by RSM<br />
International Limited, a company registered in England and Wales (company number 4040598) whose registered office is at 50 Cannon<br />
Street, London EC4N 6JJ. The brand and trademark RSM and other intellectual property rights used by members of the network are owned by<br />
RSM International Association, an association governed by article 60 et seq of the Civil Code of Switzerland whose seat is in Zug.