Gallery magazine features KPMG's new graduate hire Phoebe Gray
Read her interview below:
Name: Phoebe Gray
Age: 20
Employer and Position: KPMG, Audit Assistant
School / College attended: Jersey College for Girls
A-levels studied: Maths, Business Studies, Design Technology
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? An Interior Designer.
Favourite way to relax: Retail therapy in London
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Lazin Lizard
Favourite possession: My engraved tiffany ring that I’ve worn every day since my 18th birthday.
What made you choose to work for KPMG?
After leaving school, I felt ready to dive into the finance industry and was interested in becoming a Chartered Accountant. I wanted to work for one of the Big Four firms, and I knew KPMG offers study support whilst being able to gain experience with a variety of global clients.
KPMG stood out to me as providing a challenging yet encouraging environment and the opportunity to work with a great team. The firm places emphasis on its values of togetherness and integrity, which I found important and in line with my own values. The trainee programme has pushed and taught me so much already.
What professional training have you done?
KPMG is currently supporting me to study for an accounting qualification with ACCA. This includes various exam topics focused on financial, accounting and taxation principles, as well as aspects of leadership that can be transferred to any line of work.
The combination of studying and working practically is preparing me well for future exams and career opportunities.
What do you do on an average day?
As an Audit Assistant, my every day job involves technical aspects of testing a client’s financials and contributing to teams across the firm to complete audits in a professional and timely manner. I get opportunities to communicate with different clients and share my own inputs, based on the responsibility of my work and findings.
Every day I continue to expand my knowledge – particularly in the private equity field – working closely with senior members of staff and building connections.
What is your next step?
As I continue to grow in my position within audit, my next step is to complete my professional exams and become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant. After this, it would be great to explore what opportunities this opens up, such as the chance to travel and broaden my experience in the finance world.
What advice would you give yourself as a school leaver considering the experience you have now?
My advice would be to seriously consider going straight into the finance industry out of school, as opposed to the alternative of university. The experience you can gain whilst still studying for professional qualifications puts you in the best position to progress in your career.
Even if a finance role isn’t your ideal way of spending your younger years, it’s vital to keep an open mind. KPMG emphasises a great social environment and ensures that you have an enjoyable time with new friends. All whilst working at a Big Four firm and gaining invaluable skills for your career.
