Inside Careers Guide to Chartered Accountancy

EMPLOYER DIRECTORY
TRAINEE PROFILE
NAME
LOCATION
UNIVERSITY
DEGREE
ROLE
Charlotte (Lotty) Grimston
London
Leeds
French and International Relations
ACA Trainee
How did you get your job at HW Fisher?
I applied via the online recruitment system.
This required completing an application
form with competency-based questions. The
recruitment team review your application in
detail and if successful you are invited to an
assessment day. This did seem daunting at
first, considering I had no previous accounting
experience, however, HW Fisher considers
previous internships and life experiences
and does not solely focus on academic
achievements or accounting backgrounds.
In addition, no online tests are used; they
take a more personal approach to assess
your character and capabilities to ensure you
have the right attitude and skills to fit the
firm’s culture.
Why did you choose HW Fisher?
Firstly, I felt it would give me exposure to a
variety of clients across a range of sectors,
encouraging a depth and variety of assignments.
Secondly, I felt it would combine the
professional scope of a larger firm with a more
people friendly atmosphere of a smaller firm.
From the interview stage, it was clear that HW
Fisher would combine both the scope I was
looking for and a sociable and supportive
work environment.
What is it like working at HW Fisher?
The work environment is fast paced, demanding
and requires initiative. There is a support system
in place which is shown through dedicated
mentors, a buddy system, and working with
more experienced trainees. Sometimes it can
be hard to juggle work deadlines and exam
pressures but older trainees are always open to
give advice because of their experience. I really
enjoy the fun and inclusive culture.
What skills are useful in the profession?
You can see that having previous experience
in accounting is not an essential skill to have
beforehand. You develop your accounting
skills on-the-job. Time management is
fundamental if you are considering the ACA
as you will need to balance work and private
study. Additionally, a positive attitude and a
willingness to learn will serve you well in all
stages of your training contract.
What do you like most about your role?
I really enjoy being given responsibility at an
early stage and this is one of the benefits of a
mid-tier firm. Seeing how different businesses
in different sectors operate and interact with
each other is interesting and my general
understanding of business and finance has
grown. This is helpful for your studies and
future career opportunities. •
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