Flying Start Programme: 20th Anniversary: Alumni

Current location: Manchester

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2007

LinkedIn: Adam Prickett

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

In 2002, I attended an event with PwC in Birmingham for Sixth Form students to understand the firm and a career working for them. I remember it well, as it coincided with the announcement of the collapse of Arthur Anderson. It was at this event that the Flying Start course was advertised and it was everything that I wanted out of my university course.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. Although the programme was tough, as the course combined professional studies, university studies, work placements and university life, it offered up great variety. Unlike a traditional accounting and finance degree, you got to accelerate your learning, both in the classroom and in the work environment.
2. The opportunity to work for and essentially grow up from a professional perspective with one of the best firms in the world, is something that has shaped my professional career and behaviour. To be part of the working environment at such a young age instilled certain values, that I wouldn't have had from a traditional degree

Adam’s thoughts on placement with PwC

All my placements were done out of the Manchester office. This gave me an opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients from all sectors and sizes. The audit experience gives such a great foundation on your learning to understand not just all aspects of accounting, but of general business as well.

The network that I generated from the Flying Start course has been invaluable. Not just people within my own year group, but across all years within the course. I still meet up regularly with people across the course, whose careers range from Investment Banking, Private Equity, FD's and Transactional Services. As a result, we often work together and advise on our day-to-day work.

I did also meet and marry my wife who was a fellow "Flying Starter," so it has helped in life as well as my career!

"...the course struck me as a fantastic way to get into accounting and finance..." 

Adam’s career since the programme

Following graduating from the Flying Start course, I continued to work for PwC for a couple of years within the Audit and Assurance department, both in London and Manchester. I then took the decision to move into industry, taking a role in the Finance Shared Services centre at Kellogg's.

Although I was getting some great experience and exposure at Kellogg's, I took the life decision to move to Australia and to travel for a couple of years. The experience I gained at PwC and Kellogg's, along with the ACA qualification, allowed me to work in Sydney for such recognisable brands as Macquarie and Westpac Bank.

Upon my return to the UK in 2012, I took my first role into the work of tech, for an enterprise software company called AppSense. Gaining great experience across the finance function and ultimately as Financial Controller, I was able to go through an exit, as the company successfully sold to an US based company for ~£200m.

Following the experience at AppSense, I took my first 'number 1' finance role for AppLearn in 2016, which is where I am today. In my role as CFO, I sit on the Board of Directors and I am responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the organisation, as well as overseeing the central services function. At AppLearn, I have been able to go through a number of funding rounds, with High-Net-worth Individuals, Private Equity and Bank Debt. In 5 years, we have grown revenues by over 500%, through both organic and M&A (Mergers & Acquisitions) growth.

Adam’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. Go for it! I am sure the course has evolved tenfold since my day, but the memories and experiences are mainly good ones.
2. It doesn't come without challenges. The exams and workload are greater than a traditional course, but not unmanageable.
3. The structure of the work placements allows for a fantastic, albeit steep learning curve, which set you up for a great career in the financial and business world.

Current location: London, UK

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2012

LinkedIn Profile: Akhil Almani

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I chose to study the course after completing work experience at PwC and enjoying the experience of visiting client site for audits and the variety of work involved. I was keen to pursue a career in the finance sector but also wanted something that was going to give me relevant experience in a recognised field. When I first heard about the course, I was both excited and intrigued. The ability to combine professional studies and work experience with a University degree is truly unique.

When investigating other course options, none of them provided a guaranteed placement or were structured in a way where the syllabus was directly relevant to the professional exams and practical implementation of the knowledge and skills needed in the real workplace.

What is your best memory from your studies?

I enjoyed all aspects of the course and the placements as well as the graduation ceremony stand out as strong memories. During the course itself, I was grateful for the opportunity to be a student representative and attend the Board of Studies meetings to discuss and makes changes to the organisation and operation of the programme. It was good to see the University take on board the student feedback and consider solutions in real time as well as plans to assist future intakes as well.

What was your favourite thing about the course?

My favourite thing about the course was the structure and format. With the course being run as a partnership between PwC, ICAEW and Newcastle University we often had guest lectures from the ICAEW and had regular sessions with PwC which helped to provide a more practical aspect to the studies and show how the learning could be used in the workplace. The small size of year groups means it’s easy to get to know people quickly and settle in and there are plenty of support mechanisms in place too such as development teams and personal tutors.

Akhil’s thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

My work placement with PwC was in London in the audit department. I gained private sector client experience within various industries including manufacturing, pharmaceutical and transport logistics. I performed the role of in-charge and was responsible for the day-to-day management of the audit team; supervising and performing assurance engagements. My duties included planning and performing audit procedures, drafting financial statements, reviewing audit files, and liaising with both clients and internal senior management to report on the findings.

Did you find that your experience with PwC broaden your network and help with your career prospects?

The experience of working at PwC has been invaluable in my career. There are so many opportunities within the firm itself from internal department transfer to international secondments. The nature of the role means you are constantly connecting with different sets of people, be that a project team or client contacts. This allows you to develop a true broad network of professionals across a range of industries. Moreover, the breadth of experience as well as the overall work ethic instilled by PwC has paved the way to opportunities elsewhere.

“…the experience of working at PwC has been invaluable in my career…”

Akhil’s career since the programme

After graduating I transferred to the Government & Public Sector Audit Department at PwC, performing both internal and external audits for clients within the Charity, Health and Education sectors. After having a chance to deliver internal training courses at PwC as well as working closely with new graduates through assisting with recruitment, I felt more drawn to the education sector and wanted to explore opportunities within it.

I joined a leading, global education provider as a programme coach for accountancy students. I developed in my role and am now the department manager for our academic student support for Accountancy & Tax programmes. I lead a team of qualified accountants and advisers to deliver educational support. My role also includes working closely with several of the Accountancy Institutes to create relevant study and assessment programmes for the wider sector.

Akhil’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

I would wholeheartedly recommend the programme as a way of combining the best of both worlds; a University experience and a fast-track to qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. If you like problem solving, have an eye for detail and have an interest in business then accountancy could be a great career option for you.

The course gives you a great grounding in lots of fundamental business knowledge as well as tailored modules to help you combine the accountancy theory with the practical workplace application. This is your chance to work for a top professional services firm and go behind the scenes at a variety of businesses including household names and provide business advice and recommendations as part of their annual audit. Overall, the course surpassed my expectations and I’d highly recommend it!

Current location: Belfast

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2010

LinkedIn: Aleesha Mawhinney

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

With an interest in business and maths I decided to pursue a career in accountancy. After researching how to become a Chartered Accountant I was keen to complete the exams and become time qualified as quickly as possible.

The Flying Start programme offered the perfect mix of work experience while still being able to enjoy a student lifestyle. With so much competition in the marketplace for jobs with top tier accountancy firms, I wanted to have impressive work experience on my CV to set me apart from my peers.

Newcastle University is a Russell Group University with a fantastic reputation and as an extra bonus, the city has great transport links, making it easy for me to visit my home in Northern Ireland.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. I think fondly of the friendships made in our course and all the social events, including our annual ball at St James’ Park. I still treasure my BAF hoodies and cannot bring myself to part from them!
2. My favourite part of the Flying Start programme was being able to get impressive work experience while still being student and enjoying the student lifestyle. The programme allowed me to sit my final chartered exams immediately after graduating and become time qualified within a year. It was a fast-track way of becoming a Chartered Accountant.

Aleesha’s thoughts on placement with PwC

My work placement consisted of working one semester per year in PwC’s Assurance department. This involved working with high performing teams serving a range of clients across a diverse range of sectors. I had the opportunity to work on clients in the private sector including logistics, manufacturing, engineering and travel. My client sizes varied from publicly listed entities to large multinational private entities.

My placement gave me the opportunity to put what I had learnt in the classroom into practice. I was able to complete a variety of areas of audit work in line with audit methodology, including identifying issues, analysing data, articulation of findings and drawing informed conclusions.

I was based in the Belfast PwC office but was also provided the opportunity to travel with work. I had several secondments to other offices, such as, Brussels and London. These secondments gave me the opportunity to expand on my knowledge and work with clients in the Insurance and Investment Management sector and the Banking and Capital Markets sectors. This was a fantastic experience as during university I was unsure which sector to specialise in.

While working in PwC I met a lot of knowledgeable people and massively broadened my network. I met a lot of people working in PwC but also got the opportunity to be introduced to a lot of clients. Belfast is a small place and I am constantly bumping into old colleagues and old clients! In my current role I work alongside numerous colleagues who also trained in PwC Belfast.

“...Newcastle is an amazing city, and you will experience some of the best years of your life here...”

Aleesha’s career since the programme

After graduating I completed my training contract with PwC and worked with them for another year before moving to EY and joining their Assurance department as an Audit Manager.

After a combined 9 years in Assurance, I decided to go down a different path and follow a career in Private Equity. I joined IQ EQ, which is a leading Investor Services group which combines global expertise with an unwavering focus on client service delivery. We support fund managers, global companies, family offices and private clients operating worldwide.

I started my role as a Client Services Senior Accountant and as the firm grew the opportunity arose to lead my own team of accountants as a Senior Client Services Manager, ensuring delivery of excellent client service, risk policy adherence and ensuring the team are well trained and motivated. As I progressed through the firm and became more senior, my day-to-day technical work became secondary to my leadership role, becoming an escalation point for my clients and for any challenges my team face. Every day is different challenge and a new opportunity.

Aleesha’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. Go for it! The programme is a quick way to get the Chartered exams completed and the lecturers provide a lot of guidance and advice to learn the material and help pass the exams.
2. You will gain so much experience from this course that will massively set you apart from your peers.
3. Newcastle is an amazing city, and you will experience some of the best years of your life here.

Current location: London

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2013

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I chose to study the course because I knew I wanted to be a Chartered Accountant. I wanted to find a way to train whereby I could gain experience at a well-established company. To be able to do this, as well as contribute towards my ACA qualification as part of my degree seemed like the perfect opportunity.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. One of my best memories is from right at the start, being in the room meeting the 50 people I was going to spend the next four years with, who were all like-minded individuals.
2. Creating lots of memories with my course mates, from being together in the lectures, to group work, to working together at PwC, and not forgetting the fun social events!
3. My favourite thing about the course was knowing that everything I was doing, whether it be university work or my work placement, was going towards my ACA qualification as well as my degree.

Amber’s thoughts on placement with PwC

I enjoyed working on big name clients in London. As an associate on placement, it was an amazing experience to go to the client offices and meet lots of different people from not only the finance teams but sometimes from the wider business.

I was able to qualify as a chartered accountant one year after graduating, which was approximately one year earlier than my colleagues who joined PwC at the same time.

"...Some of my key memories from being on the Flying Start course are getting to know everyone. It is such a small group which means you get to know everyone on the course, and you are all working towards the same goal..."

Amber’s career since the programme

Whilst at PwC I did a one-year secondment to the Assurance learning and education team, which gave me the opportunity to become involved in designing and improving the PwC training courses.

Since leaving PwC I have worked at a large media agency, where I have most recently been responsible for the financial reporting of multiple individual agencies within the network. Before leaving the programme, I was working closely with the Entertainment and media industry lead Partner at PwC who supported my decision to move on and gave me advice for my job interviews.

Amber’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. My advice would be to apply if you would like to start a career in finance which opens the door to lots of future career opportunities.
2. This course allows you to gain the experience from PwC and fast tracking to getting the ACA qualification will make you stand out and put you ahead of your peers.

Current location: Cayman Islands

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2017

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

The course gives you a great opportunity to learn and experience the job whilst studying. This gives you the chance to set yourself out from other undergraduates. The fast-track course enables you to sit most of your ACA exams during university, reducing the time to qualifying, which is a great achievement.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. Being able to experience the university life as a student whilst also experiencing a professional work environment and earning money.
2. The course was relatively small, with roughly 200 students over the 4-year groups. This meant you felt well supported with a small cohort of lecturers and were also able to enjoy getting close to everyone on the course. It felt like a large family at university, with many course socials and events. It also meant that you were able to get support from the other year groups and support the younger year groups.

Ashleigh’s thoughts on placement with PwC

Work placement is great because you get to experience the job in real time. You are working at the same level as associates in the firm and get more responsibility each year, so you are genuinely learning a lot on the job and not just doing menial tasks. You visit client sites where you work with teams to complete the audits, so you are getting a real working life experience, whilst still being able to enjoy university life. You also get to experience the social aspect of working for a big firm and get to attend lots of work social events and make lots of friends in a city you might be planning to move to once you graduate, so that is super helpful.

The fast-track course allows you to become qualified a year prior to those doing a normal degree and taking on a graduate role at PwC. This also means that after only 1 year post university you are fully certified, and this then opens up an immense amount of opportunities for you as the qualification is world renowned.

You have already built up a large network whilst at university given all your course peers go onto being a qualified accountants too, who can be positioned across the world. You also have the opportunity to build up a network whilst on placements. This makes the transition to work much easier once you finish university and gives you a large network which can be very helpful later in your career.

“...the course gives you great opportunities for a quicker promotion...”

Ashleigh’s career since the programme

I decided to take my qualification to the Cayman Islands and having been working at PwC in the Caribbean ever since. I was then able to work towards manager in the Cayman Islands and became the youngest manager in the office at the time I was promoted, so the course gives you great opportunities for a quicker promotion.

Ashleigh’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. I would say go for it. It gives you so many opportunities once you come out of university with one of the ‘Big 4’ accounting firms in the world on your CV.
2. The Flying Start programme gives you a world of opportunities for your career.

Current location: London, UK

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2014

LinkedIn Profile: James Muscat

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

It was a no brainer. You had the opportunity to work with a big 4 firm, qualify as an ACA quicker than the typical route and best of all, experience Newcastle university!

What is your best memory from your studies?

It had to be the placement - living in Central London accommodation & exploring London in my early twenties with other course mates was a lot of fun! Working on client brands we know and love & meeting lots of new people. In addition, the infamous annual BAF ball which was a great opportunity to blow off some steam!

What was your favourite thing about the course?

The people you meet along the way. Overall, the course was close-knit and the social committee would ensure you engaged with those in the year above and below you.

In addition, the training with PwC projected you into a corporate setting from an early age, enabling you to progress through your career at a strong pace.

James’ thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

I was based at London Mid Tier (LMT) Assurance (now LRA) from 2012. This was one of the fastest growing business units in the UK, working with a breadth of industries, such as fast growth technology (Farfetch), construction (T Clarke / J Murphys), real estate (Workspace), retail (WH Smith) and recruitment (Russell Reynolds, Kelly Services).

You were certainly thrown in at the deep end as an Audit Associate, and each year found your role progress with further responsibilities (including onboarding the next round of Flying Starts!). There was a great social culture at PwC, and you were   encouraged to get involved with other non-audit projects.

Did you find that your experience with PwC broaden your network and help with your career prospects?

Absolutely. Firstly, in addition to your course mates, you had exposure to many PwC colleagues across different offices and departments. Secondly you work with many contacts at your client's sites.

I still use this network today to help problem solve within my job remit & keep in touch with old colleagues/course mates.

“…the training with PwC projected you into a corporate setting from an early age, enabling you to progress through your career at a strong pace…”

James’ career since the programme

In early 2018 I moved on to Ten Lifestyle Group Plc, a leading, technology-enabled lifestyle and travel platform, providing concierge services to the most valued High Net Worth+ customers of Banks/Wealth Managers. It is great fun being part of a business with a niche offering, lots of problems to solve, and a great culture.

I joined as a Finance Manager and recently progressed to Finance Director, sitting directly under the Chief Financial Officer. I was primarily hired to help enhance Ten's finance function given it had then recently listed on the AIM stock exchange. I also support the Board and Senior Leadership Team in supporting the Group's ambitious growth prospects.

James’ advice to prospective Flying Start students

If you are looking for an opportunity to pursue a stable, fast paced career path and get a "Flying Start" in the world of Finance - look no further!

Current location: London, UK

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2009

LinkedIn Profile: Josh Puddle

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I really liked the practical aspect of it knowing I'd leave university being part qualified and with a (nearly) guaranteed job. I'd always been interested in business and thought this would be a great foundation for the future. It really appealed to me that it was based in Newcastle, a city that really excited me.

What was your favourite thing about the course?

My favourite part of the academic studies was the assignment we worked on where we valued a company. I chose AG BARR and found it really engaging to work out if it was over/undervalued by the market.

After PwC, I worked for a bank in equity research and started in the Beverages Sector. This assignment made me realise this was a job I'd find engaging and enjoyable and discussing the assignment helped me secure the job.

Josh’s thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

I worked in the Insurance and Investment Management arm of PwC. When I did my first placement it was a year before the financial crash which gave me a slither of an insight into the heady days of the City. There was a team of around 14 people working on the Audit of my first client and I was definitely at the bottom of the ladder, but we had a great team and always ended the week with a long lunch.

The next two placements were very different (as the credit crunch and the recession was really starting to take hold). However, I joined a team on the Audit of a FTSE 100 property client and was given much more responsibility and access to the Senior Managers and Partners. The vast difference in the atmosphere and the way people worked between my first placement and last was eye-opening, and I felt lucky to witness the change.

Did you find that your experience with PwC broaden your network and help with your career prospects?

No doubt about it. My job and experience at PwC really helped secure my equity research role in Banking which I really enjoyed. Following that role I started my own business and there is no doubt a foundation in Business, Accounting and Finance has helped me build my company.

"…I loved the idea of leaving university with guaranteed job and I wanted to study  at Newcastle as it was a city that really excited me…"

Josh’s career since the programme

Immediately after graduating I joined my placement department at PwC in Insurance and Investment Management. I went on to quickly qualify and then joined a private German bank called Berenberg where I worked as an equity analyst firstly covering the Beverages Sector and then the Business Services Sector.

After seven years at Berenberg I left to start MOMO Kombucha, a soft drinks business. We've been trading for three years and are listed in Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, Planet Organic and Whole Foods Market.

Josh’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. Study hard whilst you are at University to make sure you pass the professional qualifications and secure your degree
2. Make the most of your placements, be open to new opportunities and take an interest in your clients' businesses
3. Save money whilst you are on placement - I was able to go travelling every summer because I'd managed to save a lot whilst working at PwC

Current location: London

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2016

LinkedIn: Josie Woodward

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I wanted a programme linked with an accounting firm, to ensure that I had a guaranteed job at the end of my degree. Newcastle University is very well recognised internationally and was recommended to me by the accounting lecturer and one of the previous students from my college who was studying on the course. I thought the course was a great fit and gave me a head start at my ACA.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. The social aspect such as the balls and social. As the course is quite small you get to know everyone in your year really well. I still have a number of really close friends to this day that I met during my time studying.
2. Being able to get a head start of my ACA and professional career, it meant being able to join PwC in a more senior position and start with more responsibility but also on a higher salary which was super helpful as I was in the London office.

Josie’s thoughts on placement with PwC

I was on secondment to LTT in London which is now London Audit for all three of my placements. During each of my placements I many worked on FTSE100 external audits both group and components audits in London but also around the UK. I also got the opportunity to complete transaction carve-out audits, bond issuance assurance and other non-audit work which was a bit different to the normal day to day.

The course definitely helped me at PwC as I had a number of contacts in other offices, and now that people have moved in the firm and to other roles I now have a numbers of friends that are sometimes even clients. I had some really incredible opportunities within the firm both to grow professionally but also to try new experiences and I was able to travel all over the world on some of my other audits. I've now moved into internal audit which I really enjoyed but I probably would never have fell into this work without the route I took.

"...I was looking for a programme that gave me a guaranteed job on completion ..."

Josie’s career since the programme

I am now an Internal Audit Senior Manager within BDO, specialising in charities and not for profit organisations. I lead the development of the Charities Sector for Digital & Risk Advisory Services at BDO and work closely with our Head of Charities and Not for Profit Leaders. In my day to day, we provide risk advisory and risk assurance services over all of a charities operations, finance and other compliance risks. This can vary from procurement audits to child safeguarding or even animal management.

Josie's advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. Study little and often as you go through and it will be easier, and don't be too hard on yourself in the first year when you are still getting your footing.
2. No one expects you to know everything on your first placement, so its fine to ask questions, spend time getting to know others in the office and generally learning what a professional environment feels and operates like.

Current location: Durham, UK

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2010

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

The prospect of paid work placements and an (almost) guaranteed job at the end.

What was your favourite thing about the course?

When I studied at Newcastle, the first year of the course followed the standard accounting and finance curriculum, but from second year onwards we took specialised classes just for those on the Flying Start degree. I really enjoyed that as it meant we became close as a year group and got more direct interaction with lecturers compared to standard courses where you would be in larger lectures and mixed groups.

Kim’s thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

I did my placements at PwC Manchester in 2008-2010, living at home as the office was relatively nearby. I spent most of my time out at client sites on audit teams of between two and five people. I was used as a proper member of the team, as opposed to being seen as a trainee or shadowing graduates.

During my first placement I worked on the less complex areas of the audit and built on these in subsequent placements. By my third placement, I acted as lead on a couple of my smaller projects.

Did you find that your experience with PwC helped with your career prospects?

Definitely. Having graduated during the recession, it was amazing to have a job with PwC set-up, which helped me get my career moving quickly. Whereas some of my peers on other courses struggled to get onto graduate schemes during this time.

“…we became close as a year group and got more direct interaction with lecturers….”

Kim’s career since the programme

After graduating, I worked in core audit at PwC Manchester (my placement office) for a year and completed my ACA exams/time qualification. I then transferred to the public sector team at PwC Southampton, where I was promoted to manager and stayed until 2015.

Feeling like it was time for a change, I moved into internal audit at a cruise ship operator where my day-to-day job involved onboard and operational audits. Following relocating back to the North East in 2018, I started working at another Big 4 firm where I am currently a senior manager specialising in letterbox and remote audits.

Kim’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

Do it! The course is great and even if you decide in the long term that a career in audit isn’t for you, it’s such a good starting point for any finance-based roles.

Current location: Sheffield, UK

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2009

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

At the time of applying, this was a relatively unique course, with the structure of placements with PwC and progression through the ICAEW qualification being a real USP. The best compliment now being how many 'competitor' courses are now available!

What was your favourite thing about the course?

I really enjoyed the smaller working groups for lectures, with this being much closer to 'classroom' learning that students would get on other courses. Additionally, the camaraderie between my peers on the course and the lifelong friends this has provided has been one of the best memories.

Lee’s thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

I undertook audit work across a diverse client base, gradually building up my knowledge and experience over the course of the placements.

Did you find that your experience with PwC broaden your network and help with your career prospects?

Absolutely!  Not only does PwC have wider range of opportunities internally, having PwC on my CV has certainly opened so many doors for my subsequent career.

“…If you know you want to work in finance and become a chartered accountant, I don't think there is a better course to accelerate you through this process…”

Lee’s career since the programme

I progressed to be a manager at PwC's East Midlands office, before taking a step into industry to work for Jaguar Land Rover.  After spending 3 years there I moved to my current role which is a Technical Consultant at Mercia, providing training and support to the accountancy profession.

Lee’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

If you know you want to work in finance and become a chartered accountant, I don't think there is a better course to accelerate you through this process.  That said, it is quite focused and bring additional challenges other 'traditional' degree programmes don't, so it maybe needs a little more research to confirm this is the direction you want to go in.

Current location: Sunderland

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2011

LinkedIn: Martin Wheller

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

The programme seemed like a great mix of relevant study focused on the professional accountancy exams, with the benefit of paid work experience with one of the top-rated employers.  There was nothing else like it at the time.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. The whole 4 years were packed full, whether it be getting through lectures and passing exams, being away on work placements, or having a great time in Newcastle living with friends and meeting my future wife. I found I was busier than lots of my friends on other courses, and it felt like we had to work harder, particularly on the placements, but that final feeling of getting your degree and the job offer from PwC makes the hard work worthwhile and has set up the rest of my life.
2. There's a huge amount to enjoy about the course. I thoroughly enjoyed Newcastle city, the lecturers and working with PwC through my studies and on placement.
3. Getting to know a group of like-minded people to experience everything with and sharing an excellent 4 years with them - inside and outside the course - was most important to me. They were 4 packed years with never a dull moment, and many of them are still my closest friends.

Martin’s thoughts on placement with PwC

I had my work placements in Birmingham and remember being a very enthusiastic and over-keen young student suddenly working as part of a huge professional firm.

My first audit client was Peugeot, so it was great to get a company everyone recognised and be part of a big audit team. I had a huge range of audits during my placements, from small companies to multinationals, from retailers to manufactures, even a TV production company, and I loved learning about their businesses.

Over the years of repeated placements, I really enjoyed building relationships with my colleagues and clients - many of which I picked up again when I joined full time.

In terms of networks, I'm still in touch with people I used to work with, and you realise what a small world it all is really. It's great having a network of people you can rely on and trust. In terms of prospects, you learn a huge amount working with PwC, and those experiences are excellent to draw upon through your later career. I now recruit accountants to join my teams, and for the key roles I always desire the ‘Big 4’ experience as there's nothing quite like the type of candidate you get.

"...During my time at PwC, I was so keen to remain involved in the Flying Start programme, that I became part of the group assessment and interviewing team for potential candidates..."

Martin’s career since the programme

Since graduating I joined PwC full time in the Birmingham office where I stayed for a further 4 years. During my time at PwC, I was so keen to remain involved in the Flying Start programme, that I became part of the group assessment and interviewing team for potential candidates when it was launched in Nottingham. I left PwC having done a year at Manager level when I moved to the North East to be with my wife.

I spent a couple of years in my first 'industry' role at a US-listed petrochemical company as a Country Accountant, looking after a team that carried out the monthly and statutory reporting for several divisions within their UK, US, Canadian and South African businesses.

Finally, I joined ScS Group plc, the UK-wide furniture and flooring retailer, where I've been for 5 years. I joined as a Group Accountant and worked up to Group Financial Controller, where I have led the finance team, reporting into the CFO, for the last couple of years.

Martin’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. Visit a PwC open day and a partner university open day and that'll build your excitement and give the opportunity to ask all the questions you might have.
2. Go for it. If you think you might want a career in accountancy or business, there's surely no better start you can get.

Current location: Birmingham

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2009

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

Flying Start was a differentiated programme at the time, with the combination of work placements and studies. I also loved the idea of studying in Newcastle.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. The friends for life I've made through the programme.
2. There is a real sense of community on the course.

Natalie’s thoughts on placement with PwC

I completed two placements in Birmingham and then transferred to London for my final placement (and the following 8 years after graduating) before returning to PwC Birmingham when I was about to start a family.

The programme massively supported my career prospects. Very few people in my school went on to professional jobs (like solicitor, engineer etc) and we didn't have any family friends in similar roles - so the course gave me an entirely new network and ambition.

“…  I couldn't have got to this position without a really good understanding of the PwC business by being a client facing member of staff for my first 5 years of my career.”

Natalie’s career since the programme

I'm still working with PwC, but I've completed a number of really interesting roles including:

• 9-month secondment into Business Recovery Services
• 15-month secondment to Buckingham Palace, as a Special Advisor to HRH The Duke of York.
• 6-month role running the PwC Youmatter survey
• 3 years (5 years if you include maternity leave periods where Stephanie and I stayed very closely connected) as the Executive Assistant to Stephanie Hyde, PwC UK Board Member and subsequently PwC Global Clients & Industries Leader. The Exec Assistant role is akin to the Chief of Staff description in the US, working really closely with the PwC Board Member to prepare them for all their meetings, presentations, speeches etc.
• Following Stephanie's departure from PwC, I'm now working in the wider Global Clients & Industries team delivering strategic projects across the network.

Natalie’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

It is a great foundation for any business career. I haven't done any "traditional accountancy" work for the past 7 years, but I couldn't have got to this position without a good understanding of the PwC business by being a client facing member of staff for my first 5 years of my career.

Current location: Arizona

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2007

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I chose to study the Flying Start programme because of the affiliation with PwC and the opportunity to get professional experience during my degree.  I also enjoyed my visit to Newcastle and felt it would be an excellent place to live and study.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. My best memory is from the work experience portion of the programme. I worked in London, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. The work and the city were very new and exciting, and I enjoyed working in my first professional job and with high calibre professionals. It was great to love with other people from the Flying Start course who were like-minded and remain good friends today.
2. My favourite thing about the course is the people; both in terms of the other students and the PwC professionals I worked with. I certainly made some "friends-for-life" through the programme including my Best Man for my wedding who was one of my classmates.

Robert’s thoughts on placement with PwC

I did my work placement in London, and it was the first time I'd ever been there (I'm from a small town in the North of England), so I did plenty of sightseeing during my placements.

At PwC I was part of the division that serves mid-tier clients and I worked on a broad range of industries and performed audit testing on a broad range of areas.  I also got to participate in a proposal for a large new client as well as other internal activities. I also worked on financial statement preparation, GAAP disclosure checklist preparation, and gained experience of audit planning including linking testing procedures to the assertions being addressed.

I feel like the professionals I have met and worked with due to PwC and the Flying Start programme are very strong contacts. Many of the individuals I worked with at PwC are strong role models who I learned a lot from and have helped me to become a better professional.

“Be prepared to work hard, have a slightly different university experience to other students with the integrated work placements, but know that it does come with a lot of rewards.”

Robert’s career since the programme

Since graduating I completed my ACA qualification and worked in London (in the same department I worked at during the Flying Start programme) for approximately 3 years. 

During my time in London, I was able to take 2 months off to travel to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.  Shortly after I returned from travelling, I transferred to PwC's Bermuda office where I worked for 2 years and after that I transferred to PwC's Los Angeles Office where I worked for another 2 years.

I then left PwC because my wife and I moved to Florida to smaller City that did not have a PwC office nearby, so I took a job with CRI (a smaller firm that's in the top 25 in the US).  I have been with CRI ever since and I've been a Partner with them for the last 5 years.

Robert’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. For anyone that's serious about a career in accounting or finance I would advise that they apply for the Flying Start programme. If they are given the opportunity to participate in the interview process it will give them a good sense of what the programme is about and the culture of the other participants and this will provide them with good information as to whether the programme is a good fit for them or not.
2. Be prepared to work hard, have a slightly different university experience to other students with the integrated work placements, but know that it does come with a lot of rewards, both professional (due to the experiences you wouldn't usually get) and personal (due to the close bonds created with classmates and the broader range of people you get to meet through PwC).
3. Find a professional mentor, to never stop learning (which is not just through books but even professional podcasts and other digital information sources)
4. Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of business, accounting/finance, and economics, and consider how the accounting/auditing/finance profession will change in the future (with more tasks being performed by computers through Robotic Process Automation and AI).

 5 years from now I think the profession will operate differently to how it did 5 years ago and I think students need to be aware of that.

Current location: London, UK

Nationality: Indian

Graduation year: 2015

LinkedIn Profile: Shivangi Kumra

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

First and foremost, it was the boost I knew it would bring to my career through helping me qualify as an ACA at just 22 years of age and with the quality experience at PwC. As an international student, the great job prospects were also a consideration. At the time I applied, only Newcastle offered the programme but it was also a great and accessible student city to live in, so I certainly made the right choice!

What is your best memory from your studies?

The period towards the end of my first year and pre-placement second year were great because I finally felt settled in, but we still had a more relaxed schedule. I made some of my closest friends then.

What was your favourite thing about the course?

The fact that we got to have a university experience whilst still qualifying early and gaining brilliant work experience alongside on an accelerated route.

During term time, I learnt fencing, musical theatre and wrote for the university paper. During placement, I was working on some major clients through their audit rotations, impairments, restructuring and news-worthy annual announcements. Every chartered accountant I've told about the programme has said they wish they had done it.

Shivangi’s thoughts on placement with PwC

What were your experiences on placement with PwC?

I was in the FTSE 100 Audit team at PwC and got to work on some well-known retail and energy brands including Burberry, Bunzl and AstraZeneca. I really grew through the experience and was leading and managing engagements by my final placement.

The London office was so big that you could take up different interesting opportunities. By my third placement I was also part of the Community Affairs team organising volunteering events, writing for the Retail and Consumer newsletter, and developing sales insights and opportunities in Energy for a director. I also started to actively pursue Sustainability Assurance work, outside of just external audit.

Sometimes that university period can be initially difficult as you adjust to new social lives and find yourself and your fit, especially initially when you are an international student going to a new country. Working through term helped mix things up, I learnt that I was good at what I did and that really helped boost my confidence in myself and really strengthened my values, so when I went back to university, I could take that with me.

Did you find that your experience with PwC broaden your network and help with your career prospects?

For sure, both on a personal level through friends and flatmates and a professional level!  One of the retired PwC partners is now my life coach. Another example is through my dissertation on renewable energy investing, when I connected with PwC internal and external networks. Several of those are still strong contacts.

From a career point of view, it's been an amazing brand name and offered excellent experience. Every other job I've taken has come through headhunters who noted the valuable PwC experience.

“…Every chartered accountant I've told about the programme has said they wish they had done it.…”

Shivangi’s career since the programme

I carried on in audit at PwC for a year and tried a cycle of experience in Sustainability and Climate Change Consulting as well as beginning my Chartered Environmentalist qualification. I was then headhunted for a role at Grant Thornton in financial advisory for Energy and Environment where I could use my Chartered Accountancy qualification to help take climate action through renewable energy investment.

After 2 years, I was head hunted to a similar role at Deloitte. I've worked on net zero strategies, sustainable aviation fuel investment and other clean tech transactions. Highlights have been a 6-month secondment to the Scottish National Investment Bank helping develop their £200m low carbon fund and spending 8 months leading the workforce commercial strategy for the Covid-19 National Testing Programme.  I'm currently an Assistant Director in the team working part-time and studying part time for my MBA at London Business School.

Shivangi’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

It's a great programme for sure - especially if you like the flexibility and adaptability. One thing to consider is the balance you are looking for across work and university life. Students from other courses will generally have a different schedule to you so it will mean some missed social opportunities. The qualification is great to have but only you can decide what the right balance is for you and what you want from your university life.

Current location: Manchester

Nationality: British

Graduation year: 2017

LinkedIn: Sumeet Dhillon

Why did you choose to study the Flying Start programme at Newcastle University Business School?

I chose the Flying Start programme due to the collaboration with PwC, ICAEW and Newcastle University. It provided a fast-track opportunity for me to complete my Chartered exams whilst providing me with a solid foundation of experience of working for one of the 'Big 4'.

What are your best memories and takeaways from your studies on the Business Accounting and Finance BA?

1. Failing one of my mocks spectacularly a week before the exam but managing to turn it around just in time thanks to the help of Dr Simon Parry.
2. The relationships made with peers not only in my year but also the years above and below which was made possible due to the small intake of this course when compared to other courses. This would result in an annual ball that I had the pleasure of helping organise in my final year.

Sumeet’s thoughts on placement with PwC

During my work placement with PwC, I worked in the audit department in the Aberdeen office with a focus on Oil & Gas. As I progressed to my 3rd and final work placement, I was able to in-charge a couple of the smaller jobs which put in good stead for when I joined full time following the completion of the Business Accounting and Finance BSc.

Working for a firm like PwC exposes you to a wide variety of colleagues and I am lucky to say I am still in touch with many of them. There are also a vast number of opportunities within the firm due to the scale of the company which allowed me to realise my ambition of working in M&A (Mergers & Acquisitions).

“...If you have the opportunity to study on the Flying Start programme then this is something I would definitely advise to do. It provides with you a great platform that results in numerous opportunities...”

Sumeet’s career since the programme

Since graduating I moved internally in PwC to the Transaction Services department, opening me up the world of M&A. I then moved to a boutique Corporate Finance firm in Birmingham to further my understanding of the deal life cycle.

During lockdown I moved to Deloitte's Sport Business Group realising my ambition of working in the sports sector. This role combines my previous experience of working in Merger & Acquisition but also allowed me to have a strong input in the strategic projects we have completed. Notable clients of mine include AS Roma, The FA, Bundesliga, Premiership Rugby, and WRU.

Through my current role I have been fortunate enough to recently join World Rugby on a secondment as a Strategic Transformation Project Manager. The main focus in my role is working on the Player Welfare initiatives which are currently underway.

Sumeet’s advice to prospective Flying Start students

1. If you have the opportunity to study on the Flying Start programme, then this is something I would definitely advise to do. It provides with you a great platform that results in numerous opportunities.
2. Always stay on top of the work as each module has a tight schedule to fit the placements in.
3. Make sure you attend the lectures and seminars. This helped me a great deal was working closely with my peers as we developed our understanding together.