Meet Trenaay, a Finance Graduate

After joining the Finance Graduate Scheme in 2021, Trenaay is now a Corporate Controller at SEFE Marketing & Trading. Here she tells her story of the last few years.

What course did you study and where?

I studied Accounting and Finance at De Montfort University in Leicester.

What Graduate Scheme did you join?

I joined the Finance graduate scheme back in 2021.

What was a typical day like as a SEFE Marketing & Trading Graduate Trainee?

At the beginning of my graduate scheme at SEFE Marketing & Trading I attended many business-related training sessions, which included training and introduction sessions across Power Trading and Trading Risk, to have a better understanding of the wider business environment and trading industry. I also took part in a two-day trading simulation, where we were able to experience the role of a trader, which was quite fun and gave an insight into trading.

During my Finance graduate scheme I had three rotations, each for around six months at a time, and my day varied from role to role. The different areas including Finance Planning and Management Reporting, Group Reporting and Accounts Payable.

From being involved in budgeting and month-end reporting for senior management with Planning and Management reporting team, to assisting in the audit of our financial records with Group Reporting and helping with invoicing and payments for Accounts Payable, I would say I was able to be fully immersed in the different areas of finance within SEFE Marketing and trading.

It was an enjoyable experience as I was able to see which area of finance I enjoyed or didn’t quite enjoy, as well as giving me time to reflect on where I would potentially see my career going after the graduate scheme.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Interacting with different department and building relationships, as everyone is very friendly and supportive. The company also supports with accounting qualification, which means the work I do links to what I’m studying, as well as offering a great work life balance.

In Finance things are constantly changing especially with the industry of SEFE. I enjoy the fast-paced nature of my role, for sure there can be a few mundane tasks that have to be completed but generally everyday there is something new to be investigated, especially during month-end. I always feel as though I am continuously learning and improving myself.

How did your degree prepare you for your role?

As I studied Accounting and Finance in University, my degree supplied me with theory knowledge of the world of finance which has been helpful when I started my career. My degree has also helped with soft skills, such as the importance of working in teams which is a large part of the work environment. Every day I am speaking to a variety of stakeholders and so it is important have the confidence to step out of your comfort zone and be comfortable with interacting with even the most senior colleagues.

How has your role developed post scheme?

Having completed my different rotations within finance, post-scheme I was offered a role within the Trading UK Accounting team. I started as a Trading Controller, which allowed me to support the team with analysing gross margin balances, and taking ownership in working on my own projects.

Trade Accounting is very investigative which is both challenging and demanding, in a way that ensures the work is never boring. Through this area of Finance, I have also been gained more commercial developments within and outside the business, for example the power market due to the nature of my tasks, which has been interesting and insightful.

What advice would you give to somebody just starting on a grad program in the organisation?

Ask questions, it’s best to ask them now and get clarification early on as usually someone will have the exact same question – don’t be afraid to speak up!

Get to know the business as a whole, not just the area you’re working in. Business is very collaborative and someday that information will be useful to you.

Be confident – you are not expected to be an expert. If you are unsure people are always supportive and they want to see you succeed,

Expand your network. It can be daunting but speak to as many people as possible in your department and in other departments.

Are you an ambitious graduate looking to further your career with a forward-thinking global business?

The views, opinions and positions expressed within this article are those of our third-party content providers alone and do not represent those of SEFE Marketing & Trading. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. SEFE Marketing & Trading accepts no liability for any errors, omissions or representations.