The SCE Group champions progression through training and encourages employees to join programmes to help them develop new skills or sharpen existing ones. The latest to take part in this is Credit Control Assistant, Olivia Food.
Starting with SCE in March of 2019, Olivia had to adapt to her first full-time job and her first office environment. However, the team helped her settle quickly, Olivia says:
“I don’t recall finding anything specifically challenging other than the usual when you first start in a new job. It was my first proper full-time role, so it was difficult to adapt to that and I had no experience in credit control or in an office environment, so that was a bit of a challenge. I picked things up as I went along and had lots of help from Gemma (Lumley – Credit Control Supervisor). Generally, though, I enjoyed learning new skills and adapting to working life.”
Once Olivia had settled into her new role and was receiving praise for the speed at which she had picked it up, Olivia began studying on an apprenticeship, working towards her AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting. Having previously studied this qualification, Olivia is determined to see it through.
Olivia has passed the first of five exams with flying colours and looks set to earn her qualification without issue. As for next steps, she seems determined to continue developing her knowledge, and would encourage others to start on an apprenticeship.
“I think I’ll be capable to continue to the next level and achieve a CIMA (The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) qualification, or the AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma. I would recommend an apprenticeship as it’s a great way of learning new things or building on current knowledge whilst getting paid a wage at the same time.”
The SCE Group’s Financial Controller, Andy Hobbs, is pleased with Olivia’s progress:
“Olivia has always been a hardworking and efficient member of the accounts team and wider business.
“Olivia is always happy to help with any tasks that are asked of her. She is also quick to pick up new skills. This has meant that Olivia has been able to provide cover for other areas of the accounts team during periods of holiday/absence.
“When I initially suggested the idea of a finance apprenticeship to Olivia, she was somewhat apprehensive as it had been a number of years since she last did any such training when she was at college. However, Olivia decided to join the course and has shown that she is more than capable of taking on the additional learning. Olivia continues to grow in confidence with every lesson and has already passed her first module.
“I’ve no doubt that she will continue the rest of the apprenticeship in the same fashion and hopefully this will be just the beginning of her training and progression.”
SCE’s continued commitment to the development of our team doesn’t stop here, assures Managing Director, Ray Fletcher:
“It is very satisfying to see Olivia showing the passion and desire to develop her career, by pursuing this finance apprenticeship course. This particular apprenticeship initiative demonstrates our commitment towards diversifying and developing our skills base, beyond the highly successful engineering courses that we have operated for many years.”
Pictured: Olivia Food (Credit Control Assistant)
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