Partner Article

Spark and a willingness to learn the key to success, say Geens, as they prepare to recruit for new roles

Chartered Accountants, Geens, is planning a new recruitment drive with roles available for autumn starts.

Karen Staley, a Director of the Stoke-on-Trent firm, stressed the key to success was enthusiasm, with an ability to learn while on the job.

Her comments follow news headlines surrounding one of the world’s largest professional services companies. PwC said it will no longer only recruit new staff with a high level degree.

Karen said: “This move, by PwC should be welcomed but, the reality is you don’t need a degree to succeed as an accountant.

“If people choose to go to university, that’s fantastic, and it’s about the overall experience, not just the study. But not everyone wants to and there are many other ways to gain entry to a professional services career.

“At Geens, we have graduates in our team, but also staff who joined from school, college or other career paths. For example, Hollie Wiles who joined the firm as an apprentice, at the age of 35, while studying for her AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) exams.”

Tax Director, Chris Beeston, joined Geens as an apprentice, aged 16, and went on to score the top marks for students across the UK sitting the Chartered Institute of Taxation CTA examinations.

Geens has a productive relationship with local colleges, for example, taking on students studying AAT examinations at Newcastle-under-Lyme College.

Karen Staley, a Geens Director, who also rose through the company ranks, said: “We look for new members of staff who have a spark, energy, enthusiasm, want to learn, and want to work as part of a team. While some young people will value the university experience, it’s not for everyone, and it’s good to offer opportunities to everyone who is willing to learn and progress, regardless of their academic background.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Nigel Howle .