What they really think

BP Exploration Plc
Aberdeen

Stage: TPE
Training office: BP
Degree: Financial Economics
University: Durham

"Looking back, becoming a CA was never really a set goal for me in terms of my career aspirations. As an economics graduate, I was more involved in the intricate theories of economic boom and gloom. However I soon realised that the application of these theories to the practical business world was seriously limited and after speaking to friends and visiting various prospective employers’ websites, it occurred to me how important the CA qualification is in today’s business world.

"The CA qualification not only provides you with an understanding of how the financial world functions, but also grooms you to adapt to a fast-changing business arena. It equips you with a strong foundation for building and applying financial knowledge and skills for any type of business, be it a bank, hedge fund or an audit firm. In short, it gives that essential edge of versatility and a distinct set of financial skills which are key to a successful career. As a result, CAs are highly sought after in the job market and are offered excellent pay packages with opportunities to move up the career ladder in a very short time.

"I am currently training with BP and will finish my first year in London on the trading floor. As the second largest organisation in the oil industry, BP is responsible for a wide range of activities across the globe, from oil production to the management of highly sophisticated financial derivatives. This gives you some excellent commercial exposure within and beyond the UK, as well as in different segments. For example, after completing my experience on the trading floor, I will be moving to the Refining and Marketing segment where I will broaden my knowledge and acquire a completely different skill set.

"Reflecting back, I have experienced quite a steep learning curve so far but it has been very enjoyable. It was exciting to learn in the fast-paced environment of the trading floor where reliable timely information is essential for portfolio management. Other highlights include working with traders and financial analysts, understanding the mechanics of the European gas market (believe it or not this really was interesting!), multi-tasking and delivering to deadlines.

"Besides work, it has been great fun meeting people from different backgrounds. The cultural diversity on the floor is incredible and opportunities for networking through team-building events are great. The company’s view on cultural diversity and its appreciation of a diverse workforce has really impressed me. BP values the uniqueness of a multi-cultured team and it recognises its vital role in its global success.

"In terms of which project has given me the greatest sense of achievement, it would have to be when the European Emissions Trading Scheme was launched earlier this year in line with EU’s commitment to reduce emissions of hazardous gas. BP started trading in this new scheme and I was required by my line manager to understand the working and implications of the emissions market and accordingly prepare a report for circulation.

"It was an important piece of work that not only exposed me to something completely new but also gave me the opportunity to prove to the management team my commitment to outstanding performance and the ability to adapt to new business requirements.

"The end report was highly valued by my line manager and used on multiple occasions. The feedback was great and it was a personally rewarding experience.

"I wouldn’t really say that there was any part of the training programme that I wasn’t prepared for. An outline of the programme was given at the outset so we had a good idea of what to expect. We were also provided with a permanent ICAS contact to look into any concerns that we had with regards the training. Besides, before the start of each set of intensive course, there was a detailed presentation and we were also provided with any pre-course materials that we needed. I should point out that on starting the ICAS training there is no assumed knowledge - therefore no need to panic if you have not come across any accountancy jargon before!

"During the training sessions, the ICAS lecturers have been extremely helpful in terms of discussing performance and providing valuable feedback.

"The pearl of wisdom that I would offer to prospective students would be that although there is no doubt that ICAS training is challenging and hard work, it is worth it. As well as being a unique personal experience, above all ICAS remains the best qualification around, so don’t hesitate - go for it."