How did you go about getting your grad role?
When I was in college, I spoke to a Musgrave representative at a careers fair. They spoke about the benefits of the programme and told me about the history of the business. From that conversation I decided to apply for the Graduate Programme.
Describe a typical day?
The average day starts with distributing the sales information from the previous day. That is usually followed by a catch up with team members to discuss that day’s priorities and divide workload as required. This work can be individual projects or group assignments.
What are the main tasks and responsibilities?
Weekly reporting, for example: sales & margin reporting, posting journals and the month-end accounts process as part of financial reporting standards.
What are the main challenges?
Keeping standards to a high level through accurate reporting of the financial information. The industry is very fast-paced and as a result the needs of the business are constantly changing and therefore you need to adapt quickly.
What’s cool?
Being able to see how a few of the different areas of the business function, as there are significant differences between the retail and wholesale businesses.
What’s not so cool?
There are times where the pressure is turned up and additional effort and work is required. This only happens a couple of times a year, but you need to be mentally prepared to put in the work that is needed.
What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?
High energy and positivity are some things I bring to work, I enjoy most aspects of my work and I try to have fun in what I do and I think that I can then help others have that mindset.
What is your education to date?
I have a 1st Class Bachelor of Business Studies in Finance & Economics, and I am currently studying to become a CIMA qualified accountant
What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?
My Finance modules are probably more important than others as they provided information I use in my everyday job
Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?
CIMA Qualification – this is a professional qualification in management accountancy which is a requirement of my role.
What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?
Passing my first accounting exam was a huge milestone so far in my career. Presenting my year two graduate business project to our CEO and the Senior Management Team was the biggest highlight.
What advice would you give to someone considering this job?
Research the exams and the career progression through accountancy and see if this is something you can see yourself in long term
What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?
Interpersonal skills, these are key as I am in constant contact with different people in the business and being able to build a relationship with them is critical. Organisational Skills are very important as you need to allocate time efficiently for yourself. Good work ethic is key, there are times in the year where everyone needs to give a little bit extra to hit deadlines around the budgeting and forecasting process.