I joined Grunberg straight from college, where I had studied for a BTEC and was the first AAT apprentice that the firm had taken on at the time.
I had always had an interest in accountancy and so I applied initially for a bookkeeping job but was offered this fantastic new opportunity.
I like how the firm was so much like a family, rather than a traditional firm of accountants.
The culture the practice has created meant that I have always been able to go to anyone for help, from my Manager up to the Partners.
I have always been up to a challenge and trying new things that test me and the firm has always been supportive and willing to let me take on new work – they have never stifled my progress or passion for the job.
Throughout my career my Managers and many of the Partners, have been cheerleaders for me, always encouraging me to push myself.
I have always liked that you can build strong relationships throughout the practice and have upfront and honest conversations.
This creates a great feeling of collaboration between different teams and departments and is one of the key reasons why clients receive such a great service and why our staff feel so tied to the firm.
From the very beginning, there has always been a clear career progression for me and the Partners have made it very clear that anything is possible as long as I am driven and passionate.
Having said that, I would never shy away from saying that it has been hard work and challenging, but it has also been very rewarding.
As the first AAT trainee, I have gone on to help mentor those who have followed me and always try to set the best possible example so that they can progress by learning from me.
It’s great that the firm continues to invest in its people, letting people find their place and encouraging a focus on personality and the soft skills that clients truly value – we are, after all, so much more than just number crunchers.