My main task throughout the day is the preparation of financial statements for small local businesses and sole traders. I create work papers using the clients provided information. This is normally bank statements and invoices or a set of basic accounts. Once all the information has been gathered and the calculations made, I enter the figures into our accounts preparation system. A draft set of financial statements is produced and I then make any necessary changes to comply with the latest financial reporting standards. Sometimes I need to speak with clients to clarify any points regarding the numbers, and I also prepare letters and other records to accompany the accounts.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
A willingness to learn as it is important to stay up to date with changes to the financial reporting standards. Attention to detail to ensure the final accounts accurately reflect the financial position of the business. You need to be happy working with numbers for most of the day.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I decided to take the accounting exams after completing my military career and started at Grant Thornton as an audit associate with no prior accounting experience. During my time in audit, I completed some accounts preparation work that I really enjoyed. I requested a transfer of department and was happy to move to my current role. Grant Thornton were very understanding and supportive and made the move very easy for me.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The thing I love most about working in accounts preparation is having a finished product for each job I work on. I enjoy the process of gathering the information from various sources and bringing it all together into one final document that summarises the financial position and the activities of a business over the past year.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Being tied to the office all day would not suit someone who enjoys getting out and about. Crunching numbers most of the day is not everyone’s idea of fun, but some of us enjoy it.
What training/qualifications did you undertake for your current role or you are currently undertaking?
I self-studied the first four ACCA modules before joining Grant Thornton and then enrolled on the professional training program requiring successful completion of all 14 exams. I have just passed exam number 11, so all the hard work is paying off and the final exam is getting close.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Jersey has a vibrant finance industry so there are plenty of opportunities available within the sector. Within accounting itself there are many diverse specialisations to choose from depending on your likes and abilities. Look for opportunities that utilise your strengths and fulfil your interests.
