An Economics graduate looking forward to a future as a Chartered Accountant
After studying Economics at the University of Edinburgh, Gabriel joined SSE’s Finance Graduate Development Programme and shares how hands on experience, supportive colleagues and the freedom to innovate have shaped his early career.
First, tell us a bit about yourself! What programme did you join at SSE and where are you based?
I joined SSE’s Finance Graduate Development Programme after graduating from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in Economics and a minor in Chinese. I’m based in Glasgow.
What did you study at university?
I studied Economics at the University of Edinburgh, alongside a minor in Chinese. My degree was quite theoretical, so when I graduated I was keen to find an opportunity where I could apply what I’d learned in a more practical, hands on environment.
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 was looking for a structured way to begin my career, where I could continue learning while gaining practical experience. SSE stood out because of the opportunity to complete a Chartered Accountancy qualification through ICAS while rotating across different areas of the business.
I was also attracted by the scale and variety of SSE’s businesses. The graduate programme gives you the opportunity to experience different parts of the company, from supporting the networks that transport electricity to understanding the assets that generate it, giving you a much broader view of how SSE operates.
My journey to SSE actually started with a chance conversation in a café in Edinburgh. I got chatting to an SSE Project Manager, who encouraged me to find out more about the company. That conversation changed my perspective and led me to apply for an internship, which gave me a route back into the business after university.
How did you find the recruitment process? Do you have any advice for students considering applying for the SSE Graduate Programmes?
Having completed an internship with SSE, I had a good understanding of the business before applying for the graduate programme. It also meant I had a clear route back into the company after university, which took away some of the pressure of graduate job hunting and allowed me to focus on my dissertation and other commitments during my final year.
My advice to students considering applying would be to take that first step and find out more about SSE. The graduate programme offers a huge amount of support, and being open to learning and asking questions makes a big difference.
Tell us a bit about your current role?
My first placement has been with SSEN Transmission’s Financial Control team, where I’ve been able to develop my understanding of finance while supporting the business.
I’m now preparing to move into Financial Planning & Analysis within SSE Renewables, which will give me the opportunity to experience another side of the business and broaden my understanding of SSE’s operations.
Alongside my day to day role, I’ve also had the opportunity to develop a suite of VBA tools to automate financial processes and help reduce some of the team’s pain points. Before joining SSE, my coding experience was mostly limited to university projects and personal interests, so it’s been really rewarding to use those skills in a way that has made a tangible difference.
Are you working towards a professional qualification?
I’m currently working towards becoming a Chartered Accountant through the ICAS qualification. Coming into Finance without an accountancy background has been a challenge, but the graduate programme provides the time and support needed to learn properly.
The combination of blended learning, dedicated study leave and support from colleagues has made a huge difference. Everyone I’ve worked with has been incredibly patient and generous with their time, and I’ve never felt hesitant about asking questions.
What skills or attitudes do you think help graduates succeed?
I think being curious and willing to learn are really important as a graduate. You’re not expected to know everything when you start, so being open to asking questions and understanding how things work helps you build confidence quickly.
I’d also say having the confidence to bring your own ideas forward is important. The freedom to suggest improvements and make a difference in your role has been one of the standout parts of my experience so far.
What’s next for you?
I’m really looking forward to the next stages of the programme, with more rotations ahead, new challenges to take on and my Chartered Accountancy qualification progressing.
The support, opportunities and variety of experience I’ve had in such a short space of time have made SSE a fantastic place to start my career, and I’m excited to see where the journey takes me.
- graduate
