Accounting Analyst Review

I work as part of Tesco's Group External Reporting Team, this role involves analysis and reconciliation of periodic and annual figures, strengthening relationships between Tesco and their business units and solving any problems that arise with submission of figures. We are also responsible for populating Tesco's annual reports and ensuring everything is in line with the correct accounting standard.

I have definitely learned a lot already, I am a lot more confident when communicating and dealing with problems. I can now work better under time-pressure, as well as part of a team. My excel skills have also developed a lot, and I now feel more comfortable working with computers. And of course, I have learned a lot about accounting!

It's a very challenging programme but my enjoyment comes from how rewarding it is. I have learned so much in such a short space of time and I have a great deal of support at all times. My current role is demanding and at times stressful but Tesco are very accommodating. I am looking forward to trying a new role however, as I am not sure this would be a department I'd choose to work in in the future.

This is the first year Tesco have had a Finance apprenticeship, so there are a few things that are up in the air, some further clarity regarding progression would be good. The support structure is great however, there's always someone to talk to! Tesco training is great and covers a whole range of skills. I do think however that the role I was put in is maybe not ideal for a first year apprentice but I have definitely learned a lot being thrown in the deep-end! :)

The support structure at Tesco is great, I have a really helpful line manager, a graduate buddy, a mentor and a programme manager that I catch up with regularly. There is also a great HR team. If I have a question, I know I'm always an email away from the answer. Everyone also seems very enthusiastic about this new apprenticeship and are always happy to put some time aside to help.

BPP regularly contact me to check in on how I am doing with my studies and will track my progress so they can identify when I am struggling. I have a mentor who helps me plan and prioritize my studies and exams as well as answer any questions I may have. There is also the option to study face-to-face in a classroom. I do enjoy my studies but I am finding it quite difficult.

A lot of what I do in my role requires a lot of knowledge in financial accounting and there is a lot of jargon to wrap your head around. My current exam takes me through the lay out of annual reports and how to calculate each figure/how to find where the figures are coming from. It has definitely bettered my understanding in this area and thus made my job slightly easier. The more I learn, the less I need help from my manager.

I have joined the Finance Newsletter team which has been insightful and there is the opportunity to be part of the graduate and apprenticeship society. However I have found it difficult, with study leave and the distance I live away from work, to be get involved in much. There are opportunities to get involved in sport throughout the year however.

Yes

It's a great place to start a career as they offer a great support system and very valuable experience. The company culture is a positive one and people are always happy to help. Working for such a large retail company is exciting and forever changing. There is always a challenge to tackle.

I would encourage them to be themselves throughout their application, Tesco like hiring friendly, outgoing people that have a lot to bring to the business. Working for a big company definitely has it's challenges, but there are so many talented and experienced employees at Tesco that it's never difficult to find help. I'd tell them Tesco is a great place to work if you're looking for a challenging, fast-pace job. There is also so much opportunity to move roles and explore new departments!