A qualified ACCA, Heather Larkins works in the finance team which accounts for the performance of the fund management business units within M&G. She prepares budgets and cost forecasts and carries out variance analyses to understand why costs may be higher or lower than expected – and ultimately to help management make key business decisions.
Describe the route to your current job
I joined M&G after graduating (in mathematics) in a fund accounting role, preparing financial statements for the various unit trusts, OEICs (open-ended investment companies) and investment trusts managed by the company. I chose to study ACCA as I felt it was a flexible qualification that would allow me to keep my options open. After four years I moved to my current position – I wanted a new challenge and was keen to take on more of a management accounting role – something more forward-looking.
What made you decide to go into financial services?
Although I was interested in finance, I knew I didn't want to work in an accountancy practice – the investment sector seemed more exciting. M&G had a good reputation in fund management and as an employer – they were willing to pay for me to gain a professional qualification.
How did you get your job?
I applied via a recruitment agency. They told me their client was looking for someone with a good academic background but who also had the right personality – team fit is important, as everyone has to be willing to pitch in when the pressure's on. I had to be able to demonstrate good communication skills, as the job involves liaising with heads of departments.
What skills are needed to do well?
Numeracy is absolutely critical. You're required not just to produce reports but also to question and interpret them for others – including people who are not necessarily schooled in finance. Attention to detail is paramount, as you have to be able to identify errors in income forecasts or spot where invoices have been calculated incorrectly. And the ability to work to tight deadlines is critical.
Heather's tips
- Do your research before interviews, so you have some understanding of how the company you're applying to makes money.
- Remember the end user – the job isn't just about churning out numbers: people rely on the information you produce to help them make important spending decisions.
- Spreadsheets will figure in a large proportion of your workload – if you don't like Excel, this job probably isn't for you.
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