Building a Channel Islands career in accounting
My dad is an accountant, so I always knew it would be an interesting career choice. It particularly appealed because I liked the idea of getting a good, respected qualification in addition to my degree. I did some research into which of the Big 4 accounting firms suited me best in terms of training options.
Why did you want to work in the Channel Islands?
I’m from Jersey and wanted to return there after university. I knew that if I moved back home during my training I could get support from family and friends and save some money. This is a beautiful island. People find it very friendly, and there are lots of great bars and restaurants. We’re surrounded by beaches, which is great as I love sailing and water sports. My commute to work is about ten minutes!
What does your job involve?
I have about 40 clients and am responsible for seeing their audits through from start to finish, managing a team of three to five people on each audit. At the planning stage I liaise with the client and discuss the fees and timing of the audit (different clients have different year ends so they’re not all happening at once!). I then plan and book my staff, set up the team and get them started. I regularly visit the team at the client site to oversee the work that is being performed. When the work is complete, I discuss our findings with the client.
Tell us about a highlight in your career.
My biggest highlights have probably been qualifying, which was really exciting, and my two-year secondment in Sydney. It was a fantastic opportunity for me. I wanted the challenge of being so far away from home, not knowing anyone. Although I was doing a similar job to my role here, it felt different because the culture was different and the clients and teams tended to be larger. I was also able to take some time out and do some travelling.
What are the challenges of working in the Channel Islands?
I don’t think working in an offshore environment has posed any particular challenges, with the exception of trying to get off the island if it’s foggy! We travel to London quite often – for training and to visit clients’ onshore offices. We’re fairly big offices here and we have a very diversified client base.
The lifestyle in the Channel Islands is fantastic. There are few finance centres in the British Isles where you can be on the beach for an evening swim within ten minutes of leaving work.
How has the finance sector in the Channel Islands changed since you started?
Both the finance industry and our firm has grown at an exceptional rate. When I started six years ago there were 60 of us in the Channel Islands – now we’re over 170. There’s always new business coming in and I think the financial services industry will continue to grow here.
People have a lot of optimism, as reflected in the fact that new buildings and business premises are constantly springing up. There’s no shortage of work.
What tips can you offer graduates?
My advice would be to think carefully about what would suit you best in terms of job, lifestyle and location. Research all the different career options which interest you and weigh up each based on the qualifications you can obtain, the study commitment and the type of work you think you would enjoy the most. Finally speak to employers to find out more about their business and what they offer to help you decide.
Victoria's career steps
2000 Graduates, starts as a trainee accountant
2003 Qualifies as a chartered accountant
2004 Promoted to audit senior, transfers to Sydney office for two years
2006 Promoted to manager, returns to Jersey
Victoria Ireson is a manager (audit division) with Ernst & Young LLP. She graduated from Portsmouth University with a degree in geographical science and later qualified as a chartered accountant.
