Why accounting?

I decided to pursue a career in accountancy because I enjoyed subjects similar to the profession at college, such as Economics, Business Studies and Maths. I have always enjoyed problem-solving and working with numbers. I also knew there was the potential to get a professional qualification and climb the corporate ladder.

What was your university experience like?

I went on to study Accountancy at Loughborough University and chose Loughborough specifically as it offered the placement year as part of the course. I thought this was important – to get practical experience before graduating so that I could stand out when I had finished university. Loughborough was also a top five university for an accounting degree.

I used the Loughborough Placements Portal which showed hundreds of placement positions; this is where I found Duncan & Toplis. It was ideal for me because it was the exact industry I wanted and local. The placement year provides a range of jobs including bookkeeping, admin, accounts, and tax, therefore giving me exposure to multiple areas.

After completing my placement, I re-applied once I had graduated and returned to Duncan & Toplis as an ACA Trainee, which started in September 2021 and my Accountancy degree granted me five exam exemptions from the Certificate Level stage of ACA.

What is your current role?

My role at Duncan & Toplis involves preparing accounts for small firms, consolidated accounts, audit work, doing work for the Fidentia department (reinsurance clients), all while completing my ACA exams and studies. I have completed work for a variety of clients in industries such as: farming, education, property, real estate and retail. I enjoy gaining an insight into how different businesses operate.

What are your plans for the future, and advice for anyone wanting to work at Duncan & Toplis?

I hope to complete my qualification and hopefully progress to a higher level role. My advice would be to make sure that you get work experience in your chosen sector as soon as possible to stand out, whether that be a placement or internship.