From Apprentice to a Senior Role

To continue celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, we would like to introduce you to Ben Hayward, our senior accounts payable administrator. He joined us fresh out of school in 2016 as a finance apprentice to gain first hand experience in developing his skills and furthering his career.

Q: When and why did you join the apprentice scheme?

A: I joined as a finance apprentice in February 2016. Before leaving High School, I knew I wanted to go down the apprenticeship route as I wanted to gain experience through a hands-on working environment.

Q: How has your career progressed since?

A: I have progressed multiple times since being an apprentice. I’ve been promoted to purchase ledger assistant then controller, and then to utilities ledger controller and currently as senior accounts payable administrator. During this time, I have taken on additional responsibilities and specialised in Utilities as well as developing my management and leadership skills.

Q: What qualifications have you gained?

I attained AAT Level 3 within just one year.

Q: How do you feel the scheme has helped your career development?

I’ve been given the chance to get firsthand experience within finance at a young age which has shaped how I work. The scheme has helped me gain essential knowledge to better my understanding of the business area. It has also enabled me to develop skills such as professional communication and producing and analysing data through direct experience as opposed to learning through University or College courses.

Q: How do you feel the company has supported you?

I have been surrounded by amazing people who have supported and nurtured me throughout my career. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I have been given, especially at such a young age.