As it’s National Apprenticeship Week this week, we’ve been chatting to one of our own apprentices, Audit Semi-Senior Isaac Marbridge. Isaac joined BHP three years ago as a school leaver and has since completed the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) level 4 apprenticeship. He is now studying the level 7 ACCA apprenticeship and is a keen advocate for this particular route into the accountancy profession.
Isaac took part in a recent roundtable event held at our Chesterfield office, where young apprentices came together to share their positive experiences of not following the ‘traditional’ University route. Isaac will also be speaking at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference on Thursday. Read our interview below to find out more about his career progression at BHP, as well as what he likes to do in his spare time.
Can you tell me a bit about your experience before joining BHP?
I joined BHP as a school leaver straight from sixth form where I studied Maths, Economics, English language and PE. While at school, I undertook a work experience placement for a week at a different accounting firm. I also gained work experience working in the sales department for a large distribution/logistics company before joining BHP.
Why did you apply to BHP?
After gaining some work experience at an accounting firm, I looked into career opportunities in the sector. I always wanted to get an apprenticeship instead of going to university, as this would enable me to study and work at the same time. Joining the audit team caught my interest in particular, due to it being client facing and the variety of clients you would get to work with.
What is your current position and what are your main responsibilities?
My current position at BHP is an Audit Semi-Senior, where I oversee the audits I work on. I have a range of specialisms which include Charities and Academies along with corporate audits. My main responsibilities include the project management of audits, being the main/first point of contact for our clients and reviewing/training junior team members.
I am responsible for the planning, fieldwork and completion sections of our files and getting them ready for manager review. Part of this responsibility is attending planning and completion meetings with the client as well as managing client expectations.
What do you enjoy most about your job/working at BHP?
I really enjoy working with a range of different clients as I get to gain business insight and build relationships with them.
What would you say to anyone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship at BHP?
From my experience, I would definitely recommend applying and going down the apprenticeship route. I find that the theory side of my studies compliments the work that I am doing every day in the workplace, and vice versa. I also think the work experience you gain is invaluable.
What do you enjoy doing outside work?
Outside of work I enjoy playing football, even though I am injury prone. When I can, I enjoy going on holiday and travelling to new places. I love going to concerts, in the past year my favourite concert was going to see Paolo Nutini perform at Malahide Castle in Dublin.
How do you unwind after a busy day at the office?
In the evenings, I normally take my dog for a walk or play football and then unwind to whatever current TV series I am enthralled in.
If you could learn something new and money was no object, what would it be?
I’ve always found the thought of learning to fly a plane quite enticing, so that I could travel the world.
What item can’t you live without?
I couldn’t live without an air fryer. Once you make the switch you can never go back!
Where is the best place you have ever visited and why?
The best place I have visited is New York. I loved the hustle and bustle and exploring Manhattan – there is so much to do! While I was there, I went on a Helicopter ride at sunset, which was the highlight of my trip.
If you weren’t working for BHP, what would be your dream job?
If I were to pick a different career, I would love to be a football manager.
