Date posted: 26th Mar 2024
We caught up with Kieran on the Darlington office, what it’s like working in our audit team and discussed his life outside work.
What route did you take into accountancy?
I attended Northumbria University, undertaking a degree in accounting. I joined Clive Owen LLP in 2021, through the graduate intake scheme. The graduate scheme has been running for over 10 years and a lot of the people around me started on this same scheme, so it is great to see the progression opportunities and how different people have used the scheme to benefit their careers. The apprenticeship course combined professional exams and a hybrid of in-person and virtual training. I had several exemptions for my exams because of my degree, which meant I could get through my professional exams quicker.
How did you find the exam process?
The exams are difficult, there is no other way to say it. They are the equivalent of a level 7 qualification and look at all financial aspects of a business in depth. Clive Owen LLP supported me through these exams by giving me study time and allowing me to access the resources I needed to pass my exams. The hard work is worth it though as it gives a great grounding and overview of accounting matters to qualify and begin your accounting career.
In 1 sentence, sum up Clive Owen LLP.
A progressive firm that encourages you to get the most out of your career.
What does your typical day involve?
I spend a lot of my time on client sites. During these visits, I meet with clients and try to understand their existing processes and financial functions to ensure we can undertake a thorough quality review of their records. I will sometimes do a stock take, where I audit the amount of existing stock a client has, this has included checking everything from steel pipes to hair extensions!
What do you like about the Darlington office?
There is a nice work environment, my room has a mix of senior and junior colleagues, so it makes for a nice dynamic, and I can always offer and receive help. We also have a breakout room at this office, which creates a social hub during lunch times, and a space to take phone calls or have meetings. I think I’ve nearly watched every episode of Come Dine With Me, as that’s the usual channel of choice for lunchtime entertainment.
What items are on your desk right now?
On top of my laptop and office equipment, I have my trusty water bottle which everyone knows never leaves my side – it has enough water to fill a small bathtub. I also have some golden syrup for my breakfast!
What’s the next step in your career?
Having just completed my exams, for the time being, I am starting to build up my audit engagement experience as a senior. I see myself progressing to an assistant manager role in the future, as I like to engage with younger colleagues and offer them support, I enjoy the development side of my role.
What do you do after 5 pm?
I use flexible working times, so my night-time routine changes depending on what time I finish, this allows me to work around my personal life and have the option to do more of what I love when I want to. I try to go to the gym most nights of the week, as well as going to the Lake District for some hiking. I have done some charity challenges with Clive Owen LLP and I am also trying to complete all of the 214 Wainwrights.
If you would like to find out more about the Darlington office, click here.
If you would like to apply for our any of our current roles and start your career in the same way Kieran did, click here.
