Why did you choose accountancy?
For me, it all started back at high school where we had a careers meeting in year 10 to discuss possible avenues for our future. We talked about which subjects I enjoyed and maths was one of my favourites, as I’ve always loved working with numbers, so she suggested that accountancy could be something that I could look into. When I then discussed this career with friends and family, I had their full support so decided to have some additional work experience to gain more knowledge and experience in this profession. When I was 17, I spent a week in an accountancy department at a Ballet Makers firm. This really sparked an interest and made me consider all the different branches accountancy could go down. From here I looked into my next steps, and found that an apprenticeship would suit me the most which lead me on to finding a local firm which advocated this route and supported me through AAT qualifications.
Why did you choose Lovewell Blake?
I came to the trainee insight evening before I applied for a job here and I felt so welcomed and surrounded by supportive and interesting people from the firm. I used to think of the stereotypical accountant as being dull and boring, however I quickly learnt that it doesn’t apply here! I really enjoyed the evening and it confirmed the fact I wanted to work in an environment like that. Also, I found the interview process was relaxed and very friendly, meaning I could be myself and connect with the managers in the firm.
Since working here it’s confirmed that the atmosphere in the firm is continuously supportive while offering you challenges and opportunities to push you forwards at your own pace. It offers a perfectly balanced dynamic.
What is your role?
I am currently an accounts assistant in the Business Services Group. This means I work alongside my team to provide a full suite of services to small and medium sized business. I enjoy the range of clients I work on and this varies from working with care homes to marketing agencies to bike retailers and so many more. I ensure clients are compliant with their tax and accounting requirements, as well as providing management account information to clients for real time financial data and advice. For me, this joins my logical thinking and problem solving nature while also highlighting the importance of building a positive rapport with clients.
My role also encompasses supporting the seniors on my team which I find very inspiring and motivating to help and learn from them. I also provide training and support for the new trainees on our team which I something I love and find very fulfilling, being able to watch them grow and excel both professional and personally.
Why do you enjoy your role?
I enjoy my role for many reasons. I love the environment I work in and the team I have supporting me. Having people around you that are continuously supportive and have built a genuine friendship with, makes me excited to come into work every single day. Training new members of staff is also something I love to do too. Working with them closely and seeing them progress is such a rewarding process.
I also love the job I do, as accountants we are here to help clients in many ways. This ranges from giving them financial advice, producing financial reports, suggesting new software or accounting methods to help make their lives easier and more efficient. Helping people is my passion. So for me, just a little thank you from a client or colleague is so rewarding and makes me love my job even more knowing I’ve had a positive impact on their day.
How have you progressed since starting?
I have massively grown as a person since starting my role here, both professionally and personally. My confidence has drastically improved as I am naturally quite shy and introverted (my team joke that I was on mute for my first year here!!), but being surrounded by my team, they have given me the opportunity to continuously improve and grow through open conversations and pushing me to become my best version. I have learnt and owe a lot to my team.
What three words would you use to describe working at Lovewell Blake?
Supportive, friendly, fulfilling