How did you get your role at Burgess Hodgson / application process?
Having studied business modules in my final year at University I began to research accountancy firms in my local area and discovered Burgess Hodgson. After looking at their website I felt the firm was the perfect fit for what I was looking for. I completed the online application and was then invited for a face to face interview with the recruitment Partners. The process seemed daunting at first considering I had no previous accounting experience. However, Burgess Hodgson take a much more personal approach to assess your character and capabilities to ensure you have the right attitude and skills to fit the firm’s culture.

Why did you choose Burgess Hodgson?
I identified Burgess Hodgson as a firm that offers variety to its trainees, combining local expertise with wider City connections. The firm’s regional scope and diverse client base means it is well equipped to act across multiple business sectors giving trainees in-depth exposure at an early stage.

This, coupled with the firm’s supportive and sociable environment, made Burgess Hodgson an obvious choice. The firm puts on a range of social activities throughout the year and encourages everyone to get involved. The firm’s involvement with local charities and commitment to organising fund-raising activities ensures that equality thrives within the workplace. This instils a sense of pride amongst the trainees as we feel we are a key member of the local community.

How would you describe the firm’s culture?
The culture at Burgess Hodgson, with a professional yet personable approach at the apex of client and trainee relationships, is a culture that sets Burgess Hodgson apart. In creating a culture of friendship, the firm understands the importance of building strong relationships, and for me, this sets it apart from other firms.

What’s it like working at Burgess Hodgson?
Our ethos is to deliver forward thinking business advice to our clients. From the outset I have been given a range of responsibilities and exposure to different tasks. Burgess Hodgson is committed to continuous learning and we are therefore encouraged to think outside the box and appreciate our role as financial specialists at the heart of all areas of business. This helps us to focus on the wider picture and consider both national and international developments allowing us to anticipate issues that may affect our clients.

On a day to day basis I liaise with my reporting Partners to establish what work they require completing. My work is varied and can consist of preparation of statutory accounts, visiting business premises to conduct audit work and management assistance for regular reporting back to our clients. I also have an active role in assisting with the on-the-job training of the more junior trainees in my team.

What’s next for you at Burgess Hodgson?
I aim to become ACA qualified in the coming months and following this I hope to work towards sitting my Chartered Tax Advisor exams. In terms of my role within the firm, I aim to progress on to the role of manager, managing a broad portfolio of clients and a small team of ACA trainees.

What challenges have you come across and what support have you received?
The working environment is fast paced and demanding. Studying for the ACA alongside working full-time is challenging especially during busy periods in the office. The ‘open door’ culture at Burgess Hodgson means that everyone, from the trainees to Partners, is very supportive and are always happy to offer help along the way!