Tell us about your career journey at Critchleys and your current role?
I joined Critchleys in 2017 as an Audit Assistant. I knew I wanted to work in finance but didn’t necessarily want to go to university. Critchleys was the perfect fit as I was able to gain a professional qualification whilst also gaining valuable work experience with no student debt. I finished my exams in 2020 and became an Assistant Audit Manager in early 2022.
As an Assistant Audit Manager, I am the main point of contact for my clients and am responsible for managing the audit process from planning to signing of the financial statements. This involves reviewing the work by the Audit Senior and liaising with the Partner on key matters. I also manage other assurance engagements for my clients such as grant audits.
What types of industries and clients do you work with?
The audit team act for both corporate and charity clients. I personally enjoy working with our charity clients as they are all unique and do some incredible work for their charitable causes. We also act for a lot of the Oxford University colleges which are very interesting, and they are right on our doorstep too!
I am responsible for around 75 clients ranging from small charities who require an independent examination to larger companies and charities who require an audit. The thing I enjoy most is the range of clients I look after which means there is always something different to do. I really enjoy managing some of the clients that I worked on when I was a trainee. I have worked with some of my current clients for many years so I have gotten to know them and their businesses really well.
How has Critchleys supported your development and career growth?
Critchleys supported me by funding my ACA qualification, including paid time off work to attend college and having plenty of people to ask for help. Once qualified, I knew I wanted to go into management and have completed courses on management to help with my new role.
What’s been your biggest career highlight at Critchleys so far?
Passing my final ACA exam to become a chartered accountant. I was really proud of myself and glad I didn’t have to sit any more exams. The only downside was that I passed during covid so I didn’t really get to celebrate much!
For you, what makes Critchleys ‘Critchleys’?
The people! As well as the training towards professional qualifications, we do a lot of social activities in teams and the Firm as a whole. This year we went to Ascot racecourse and are having our Christmas party at Exeter College in December. It means that each department knows each other well and everyone feels part of a team.
What are the top 3 things you enjoy about your role, team and Critchleys?
A big perk for me is the Vitality healthcare scheme. Vitality offer benefits for staying active and I have peace of mind that private healthcare is there if I ever need to use it.
The Audit team completes lots of different pieces of assurance work for our clients so there is always something different to do. As well as the day-to-day audit work, we assist with recruitment, training and networking so there is lots to get involved with.
One of my favourite things about my role is the wide range of clients I get to speak to on a day-to-day basis. A lot of our clients in audit are charities who do amazing work for causes that they are very passionate about. It is rewarding to be a small part of that.
What challenges have you faced during your career and how did you overcome these?
I was studying for my final exams when covid hit and suddenly all of our learning and exams went online. It was difficult to keep motivated when exams were delayed. Luckily, my college were great at providing learning online and the process was smooth and the Firm were helpful in accommodating new study and exam dates.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of their career?
To say yes to as many opportunities as possible.