University attended: Northumbria University
Degree: Accounting
Office location: Head Office, Tiddington
Department, team or function: Finance
What made you choose NFU Mutual for your finance career?
When I was researching companies during my application process, NFU Mutual’s reputation as a “Great Place to Work” really stood out. I was drawn to the idea of being part of a mutual organisation where the focus is on supporting customers first. Throughout the recruitment process, I kept hearing about the positive work culture and how much employees valued working here. That kind of environment was exactly what I was looking for.
Can you tell us about the finance scheme you’re on?
I’m currently in my third year of the Finance scheme. My journey began with a placement in Financial Reporting & Control (FRC), where I focused on Solvency II regulatory reporting. Now, I’m in my second placement in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). This rotation has given me a broader perspective and diverse experience within the finance function.
How was your onboarding experience at NFU Mutual?
The induction week was fantastic. It provided a great opportunity to meet my fellow Professional Trainees and get acquainted with the company. We had a comprehensive introduction to NFU Mutual and our roles within it, along with sessions with the Directors. These interactions were incredibly insightful and helped set the stage for a smooth transition into our teams.
What is your current role, and what does it involve?
I’m part of the Financial Services team in Financial Planning and Analysis. My role involves measuring our Financial Services business’s performance against our annual plan. I compile and analyse data on sales activity, expenses, and profitability on a monthly basis, which helps senior management stay informed about the business’s current performance. If additional analysis is needed, I provide it to ensure that we have an accurate and useful picture.
What kind of development activities have you participated in as part of the scheme?
Throughout the scheme, I’ve had the chance to attend various training workshops, such as influencing skills, coaching, presentation skills, and change management. I’m also working towards completing my CIMA accounting qualification, which has been a significant part of my professional development.
What has been your biggest achievement so far?
One of my biggest achievements has been successfully delivering two year-ends within FRC under challenging circumstances. Managing projects end-to-end, meeting reporting deadlines, and ensuring everything was delivered as needed was demanding but incredibly rewarding. It was satisfying to see the successful completion of these critical tasks.
Do you have any tips for graduates applying to NFU Mutual?
Definitely! Beyond the basics of researching the company, my main advice is to be yourself and showcase who you truly are. It’s important to communicate your skills and attributes, but the hiring managers are also looking for the real you and how you’ll fit into the company culture. Being genuine and showing your personality can make a big difference.