Yootha Yong - Finance Graduate

First, tell us a bit about yourself! What programme did you join at SSE and where are you based?  

I’m in the Finance Graduate Scheme and I joined in 2021, based in Glasgow.

What did you study at university?

I studied Economics at the London School of Economics and Political Science, then completed an MSc in Economics at the University of Exeter in 2021. I joined SSE shortly after finishing my masters.

Which sectors did you consider applying to for your graduate role? What made you choose SSE and the area you are now working in?

I had my options open, however, I had a keen interest in the energy sector. I chose SSE as the graduate scheme was highly attractive and offered the opportunity to train as a Chartered Accountant in their Finance Graduate Scheme, specifically as a Graduate Accountancy Trainee through multiple rotations in finance functions across the Group.

How did you find the recruitment process?  Do you have any advice for students considering applying for the SSE Graduate Programmes?

It was a smooth recruitment process, and the interviews were a great opportunity to pitch yourself and learn more about the teams. Take this chance to learn more about the company and the role and be yourself. There is plenty of support throughout the recruitment process as the recruiters are always happy to answer my questions or point me to the right person for my query!

Tell us a bit about your current role?

I’ve just started a new rotation in a different department. In my previous department, my role had a strong accounting focus and I had the opportunity to work on different tasks across the Finance sub-teams in the department. In addition, I worked alongside other graduates across the Group on a Graduate Sustainability Project, where we presented a winning project that champions SSE’s values with a strong focus on sustainability. These competencies helped me strengthen my knowledge and professional development in studying for the CA qualification and have greatly contributed to my career development. Besides technical training, there are other internal training opportunities offered, focusing on soft skills. I’ve learnt so much in such a short period, but the best part about the programme is taking up impactful work alongside bright graduates and colleagues who are extremely supportive and friendly!

Are you working towards a professional qualification?

There are a number of accounting and finance professionals across the Group who are chartered and it is often comforting to know that they have been through the same process as well. There is support from both ends internally through SSE and through the institute we train in. There is a Training Principal within SSE who will have oversight over the programme too. The Finance Graduates have regular catch ups as well, so in a nutshell there is plenty of support all around.