To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke with Ellie Dignam, Partner and Head of Digital Finance, about her journey from apprentice to where she is today.
What were you doing before you joined BHP?
I was studying economics and politics at Manchester University, but I realised University wasn’t for me and applied for a role at BHP. I can honestly say almost 13 years later, it was the best decision I have ever made, and I have never looked back.
Why did you choose to apply to BHP?
A family friend who worked at BHP at the time mentioned how great her experience had been. From the first interview, I felt comfortable that this would be a place I could learn and develop.
Why Digital Finance?
I have worked in many roles since joining BHP – starting in our Audit & Accounts team as a trainee and then moving into a more project-based role focused on our digital transformation, heading up our Digital Finance team. The reason I love Digital Finance is because I feel that as a team, we can have a massive impact in helping business owners and their businesses to thrive.
What was your first day like?
I was so nervous, but everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Our induction process has evolved massively since then, but it was a mixture of working in the office and completing an external course on the basics of accounting. I felt invincible when my trial balance actually balanced!
What have you learned since joining?
A really difficult question to answer. I joined BHP at 19, and I feel like I’ve learnt so much in that time about myself, accountancy and leadership. One of my favourite things about BHP is the fact that you never stop learning, and the opportunity to continue to do so is always there. Probably the most recent thing I’ve been enjoying learning about is AI in our profession and how we can utilise it to help ourselves and our clients.
What do you enjoy most about working at BHP?
I love the people and the opportunity. I honestly feel excited to come to work every day, excited about the team we have here, the clients we work with, and the opportunity to improve constantly.
And now, it’s time to find out a bit more about your life outside work!
What’s your favourite food?
I’m a massive ‘foodie’ and couldn’t possibly pick one favourite food. If there’s a tasting menu available, I’m there! We were lucky enough to go to a restaurant in Dubrovnik and sit in the ‘walls’ whilst enjoying an amazing tasting menu, which is an experience I won’t forget.
Do you have a favourite TV programme/box set?
It’s got to be Grey’s Anatomy; I must have watched it 3 times over. I’m practically a surgeon now!
What’s your favourite film?
I have many favourites and love rom-coms. 13 going on 30 will always be my favourite because I am a big kid at heart.
What is the best book you’ve read?
Probably the best book I’ve ever read is Atomic Habits – it really is a game-changer in creating good habits and breaking old ones.
What’s your favourite or dream holiday destination?
My fiancé proposed to me in Sani (Greece) last year and so that will now forever be my favourite place, we immediately booked to go again this year and I can’t wait!
