Graduate Trainee in Finance
“I studied Accounting and Financial Management at the University of Sheffield and I joined Wilkinsons on the finance graduate scheme in 2010.
I started with a four month placement in our Bury store. At Bury I experienced a stock take; got involved in the recruitment and opening of the Arndale store and assisted in a re-branding of the Burnley store as well as learning all about the everyday store operations. I started developing relationships and building a network of contacts that I’m sure will be really valuable as I progress through my career in finance.
On the finance scheme you have an operational role from day one. Although having responsibility right from the start is daunting and quite stressful at times, the knowledge and exposure this gives you is invaluable. To be successful in this role, you have to be able to network with all departments across the business – the distribution centres, the stores and all head office departments. I’m currently in management accounts working on the 2012/13 business plan. Wilkinsons firmly believe in developing talent so I was offered study support and I’m currently studying for the ACCA qualification.
But it’s not all work – we are encouraged to make work fun and to find great ways of raising money for the charities we sponsor, so I am currently organising a skydive for our charity of the year Age UK. Wish me luck!”
