Coming from a business degree, I saw many of my university friends head off for careers with the “big 4” accounting firms. I liked the idea of a career in accountancy but considered myself more suited towards working within a service organisation and particularly within the public sector. I wanted to be involved with, and contribute to, an organisation that was achieving something for the public good. When I came across the Graduate Trainee Scheme, it seemed too good to be true!

 

The overwhelming strength of the scheme is certainly the diversity of experience it provides: different organisations, different areas of work and different people. This has been invaluable as I progress through the scheme and start thinking about what I would like to do and discover how I work best.

 

Complementing this diversity is a great deal of support towards my professional development, including a training budget, as well as the commitment of senior management in each of the three organisations.

 

Of course, the work doesn’t stop as I leave the office in the evening! Studying towards the CIPFA qualification is a fundamental part of the scheme and requires commitment and hard work. In my experience, half the battle is getting into the process of studying towards and getting through exams every six months, which becomes easier with practice. However, contrary to popular belief, they need not take over your life!

 

Looking forward, I think that my experiences on the scheme will be a sound platform for a rewarding career in public sector finance.