Scott Danks
NAME Scott Danks
EMPLOYER Ernst & Young
JOB Executive
DEGREE Natural sciences, Cambridge University (2005); CA (ICAS)
After four years’ studying at Cambridge University, I decided the time had come to ditch my lab coat and go out into the big wide world of work. The eternal student in me wasn’t quite ready to give up studying altogether so I began my job search by looking at graduate career options that allowed me to work towards professional qualifications such as accountancy.
Gaining experience
I’m from Jersey and I wanted to come back so I applied for a work experience placement. This gave me a real insight into what working life would be like and I was pleased to be offered a place on the graduate training programme at the same firm. Jersey is a fantastic location to work. As an offshore centre, the opportunities available are on a par with any major city and I enjoy the fact I’ve met so many people from different cultures and backgrounds. I’ve always been into sport and living in Jersey means I can be on the beach or playing golf within half an hour of finishing work – something my friends in the UK just can’t do!
Meeting people
People assume accountancy is all about numbers and spreadsheets but it’s more about dealing with people: since joining, I’ve been out to Dubai twice as part of an audit team and I’ve also been flown into Monaco by helicopter for a day to meet with a client! I’ve gained responsibility quickly and have been leading teams of up to five colleagues for the past two years. I passed my chartered accountancy exams last year and now I’m looking forward to a three month secondment to Melbourne.
Jersey doesn’t offer the big city London lifestyle but it does offer many of the same career opportunities with the added bonus of a brilliant work/life balance. It’s a fantastic place to start an international career.
