Life at PKF

Emily’s story: Opportunities on the horizon

Emily Shrubb is an Assistant Manager in the Business Services division. 

I joined PKF in July 2019 having completed my AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification and then integrated with the September graduate intake to study for my ACA qualification.

Coming from a small town, I knew I wanted to make the move to London and start my ACA journey, as there are some incredible opportunities in London.

I wanted to join a firm where there would be other young trainees like me, so that I could have support studying for my qualification as well as benefitting from meeting new people.

I came across PKF through a recruiter, applied and got an interview. From the moment I stepped inside the offices in Canary Wharf, I knew I wanted to work there. I felt a good vibe straight away as everyone was happy and smiling, which made my decision super easy!

Emily ShrubbOnce I joined PKF, it was clear how supportive the people are, it’s a nurturing environment. Knowing from the start that there were people willing to sit with me and help me really put me at ease. From day one, everyone was friendly and I settled in quickly. I instantly felt welcomed and part of the team.

Not only do you get invaluable work experience at PKF, you also get the opportunity to meet and work with many different people. It’s a nice, social environment with a great culture.

Working in Business Services, I’ve found that it’s a social and supportive team to work in. I’ve received personal recognition of my hard work and getting positive feedback straight after jobs that require a lot of your time, really gives you a boost. Moments like that make you realise how valued you are as an employee.

I have been at the firm for three and a half years and I’m now an Assistant Manager in the Business Services division. Progression pathways have been clear since joining as every year you move up to the next level. This gives you motivation when going into your exams, and having this transparency around progression is very much valued.

Looking ahead, I would really like to do the secondment in Australia. There are many other opportunities within the audit team to travel too.