Name: Tom Kelly
Joined the Council: Summer 2009
University and degree: Cambridge, BA Social & Political Sciences
Why did you apply to this scheme?
Cambridgeshire is a vibrant, growing and diverse place to live and work; and I wanted a role that used the analysis and communication skills which I’d developed at University, and to work more with numbers which had not been a key feature of my degree.
I’d heard accountancy training contracts described as “close to a paid postgraduate qualification” – this appealed to me. I wanted to keep learning, but also get on with real-life decisions, and earning a salary! There is pay progression provided you pass exams and grow in the role.
What experience have you gained on the scheme?
My first year saw me assigned to Internal Audit. The Council encounters all types of risk and my audits reflected this. From improving safeguarding & HR procedures in schools, to checking budgetary control, stewardship of client monies and use of enforcement powers, I got a great insight into the authority’s work. Being brand new and needing to form judgments is daunting, but a “fresh pair of eyes” is also a valuable asset.
In my second year, I moved to Children’s services financial support. This included advising my own set of managers on value for money, regularity, and budget management as well as ensuring we correctly account for public money behind the scenes.
Next I spent 6 months in Business Development, the small group working on projects directly overseen by the Finance Director. The budget for supporting local buses runs into millions of pounds, but financial and environmental factors meant reform was necessary. We initiated an embryonic project to stimulate more commercial and community provision. It was a fast paced and politically sensitive project that ranged from road testing a minibus to negotiating with business and consulting solicitors.
What is your current role?
I’m now in Corporate Finance ready for the annual closedown of accounts and publication of financial statements. I am expecting this role will develop my financial accounting technical understanding.
How do you see your future development?
I'm on track to finish the professional qualification within the next year. I have enjoyed the wide ranging experience I've had so far and hope to extend that breadth a little further still. Financial control and good governance have become even more crucial skills for the whole economy and the public services in particular so I think it's a good time to be qualifying as a Chartered Public Finance Accountant.
What are the most important skills/strengths you need to be successful on the scheme?
Good financial management in the public services is crucial to front line delivery of services and best value for taxpayers. You should apply if you’re up for that challenge. You need to be a fast and willing learner, open to change, naturally inquisitive and good at working both with others and on your own initiative.