1) Name: Gemma Leighton
2) Qualifications: AAT and ACCA qualified
3) Why did you choose to join CVDFK? Or, choose not to join others?
I applied to a number of firms for an AAT contract and when I was interviewed by CVDFK I knew that it was the type of firm I wanted to work for. The people who interviewed me were very friendly and I felt that they genuinely wanted to get to know me as a person.
4) What has been your best day (or your best experience) so far?
I enjoy my work on a day to day basis so I can’t really think of a ‘best day’ as such. However, what is a great motivator is receiving praise and thanks for a job well done from a client.
5) What has been your hardest day (or your hardest experience) so far?
The hardest experience was initially adapting from school to work but this was just a transition process and I soon got into the work routine. On top of this, I also had a door to door 1.5 hour commute to and from work, however that’s now been reduced significantly with a high speed train which reduces the train journey to 20 minutes!
6) What is the most challenging part of the job?
I am constantly learning and if I get a stuck on a particular problem there is always someone I can ask. The learning process has been really important to me and it continues on a daily basis.
7) Describe a typical day as a trainee.
I am mainly office based and carry out the accounts preparation on behalf of clients. There are often lots of queries from the client and I try to ensure that these are resolved quickly and that the client is kept informed. I have a good relationship with my manager and she regularly reviews my files. Occasionally a job requires a client visit and it is always nice to meet the client on a one to one basis rather than via email.
8) Describe your experience so far as a trainee.
After I qualified as an AAT, I wanted to study for ACCA as I wanted to study for a global qualification. There is a huge volume of information to learn but I expected this when I started studying so it didn’t come as a huge shock. You have to be very committed to putting in the hours for studying. However I receive excellent support from our Technical and Training Team as well as day to day training and support from my manager. I may not have received this level of support in a bigger firm.
9) What are the hours like?
The hours are fine particularly where I work in the Business Services Unit as there is some flexibility. However, we all work extra hours during the busy periods.
10) Is there anything else that you feel makes CVDKF unique and/or a great place to work?
I think the Social Committee is really good as there are regular events which include the whole firm and bring everyone together.
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