What did you do before joining the training scheme?
I joined 51³Ô¹ÏÍø straight after completing my undergraduate degree in Economics and International Development. My degree included an industrial placement year, in which I worked for 14 months at UBS Global Asset Management, in the Global Real Estate Multi-Managers and Securities team. While I enjoyed my time there, I decided a career in asset management wasn’t for me, and focussed on pursuing my interests in accounting and finance.
What attracted you to the scheme?
51³Ô¹ÏÍø has a strong culture of personal and professional development, and I was particularly attracted by the excellent support package offered to complete the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification; alongside the opportunity to nurture other key skills through undertaking courses with 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s People and Organisational Development Team (POD). The Higher Education sector offers a unique and stimulating work setting and I was keen to experience first-hand how 51³Ô¹ÏÍø responds to the changing political environment whilst maintaining its position as a top education and research institution. Completing a variety of placements across the entire Finance division seemed an excellent way to link my interest in the sector with my goal of becoming a qualified accountant.
What has been the highlight of your time on the scheme?
During my time within the Management Accounting team, I acted as central finance support to over 20 different Support and Academic Services departments at College, including the Library, Careers Service, Research Strategy and Safety Department. As a result, I had the opportunity to work with a variety of senior personnel across College and gained considerable insight into how each department contributes to 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s academic mission. The placement proved particularly valuable and relevant to my CIMA studies and I was able to progress quickly through the exams.
What has been the biggest challenge?
Having had very little accounting experience prior to joining 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, I had to learn basic accounting principles in a very short space of time, whilst also getting to grips with 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s finance systems and adjusting to my new responsibilities. While it was a steep learning curve, my team were incredibly supportive and this practical experience has allowed me to build up a strong knowledge and skill base and progress quickly through my accountancy exams.
2023 Update
Having qualified in 2016, Ellie then spent a number of years in the Business Partnering Team. She is now on secondment as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis.