Apprenticeship Week 2021: Building the Future

Apprenticeship Week 2021: Building the Future

For the 14^th annual National Apprenticeship Week, we are celebrating apprenticeships and how they “Build the Future”. This week gives us a chance to reflect on the big impact apprenticeships continue to have on our teams, company and wider community. We will be taking the opportunity to highlight some of the motivating apprenticeship stories from our people across the business. We spoke to Monica Luta, Trainee Payroll Assistant, about her apprenticeship experience while working with our Humber region team.

Why did you choose a career in accountancy?

I’ve always loved working with numbers so I knew that finance would be a good sector for me. When it came to looking at different careers, my goal was to build a successful long-term career. Then through my research I felt like there would be longevity in an accountancy role. This is when I made my mind up and decided on accountancy for my future.

What attracted you to Haines Watts?

Well, to be begin with, the application process was straight forward. However, once I was invited for an interview, I did a load of research into the company and it’s values. It when then, that Haines Watt’s great reputation (top 15 firm of chartered accountants and 35,000+ clients etc.) really won me over. I was more than happy once I received a second interview and was eventually offered the place. Now, I’m glad I found Haines Watts as I love working with such a professional and fabulous team!

What is your favourite part of your job?

My favourite part has to be working alongside my colleague, Sharon, as I’m learning so much from her. She’s always there and ready to answer any question I have about the job. This has been really important as I had zero experience of working in payroll. I’ve developed myself so much since I started.

What are your aspirations for the future?

First of all, I’d like to say a massive thank you to Haines Watts for the opportunity to join their team. English is not my first language and I’m not a school leaver, so I thought my chances of being selected for the apprenticeship were minimal. I was wrong! This has given me the drive to prove they made the right choice every day. I still have a lot to learn, but I hope that I’ll reach my goal of becoming a payroll specialist in a few years.

What is your advice to anyone considering an accountancy apprenticeship?

I have a few. If you are starting an apprenticeship, make sure you: stay organised, work hard, always ask if you’re not sure, be friendly and listen to your colleagues. At the end you will see that all of your effort was worth it.