How to Build a Rewarding Career

How to build a rewarding career

NHS Finance Manager Harriot Winfield (pictured) outlines what takes to become a CIPFA qualified accountant

My career in public finance began with an ambition to work for the NHS. I had no firm idea of exactly which role I wanted, but after applying for the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme (GMTS) I was accepted. Luckily, I ended up falling into the right CIPFA qualification and have never looked back.

The road from CIPFA student to qualified accountant was intense. The GMTS involves sitting a lot of exams in a relatively short space of time. As you can imagine, this meant many evenings spent revising after work, but it all paid off in the end.

The process can be tough, so having the support of family and friends was essential. Being involved with the CIPFA student network was invaluable as it connected me with other students, and I felt able to ask for support when I needed it.

Work-life balance is also crucial, otherwise you can end up burnt out, which will stop you performing at your best. I found balance by using my annual leave to take breaks and prioritising time with friends and family.

Now that I’m qualified I’m thoroughly enjoying my work, and I take pride in being a public finance professional. Currently, I’m working at a large acute NHS trust in central London. It keeps me busy, but the work is rewarding, and I know I’m making a difference.

My role focuses on productivity and cost improvement, which is especially relevant given the current economic climate. The NHS can be turbulent at times, particularly given the financial challenges it faces. But my colleagues and I are dedicated to the NHS and the vital role it plays for us all.

As an accountant, I believe it is important to learn as much as possible about day-today operations. So, I’ve started volunteering in the phlebotomy clinic at the hospital and I’m excited to experience how things function on the front line.

Being a woman in public finance is not always easy, and I sometimes find myself in male-dominated spaces. While there has been progress, we still have work to do. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredibly inspiring women in finance, particularly in the CIPFA networks. There are also many talented women joining the profession, which will have a positive impact on the entire sector.

I’m extremely grateful that I ended up qualifying through CIPFA and for the boost it has given my career. Specifically, the CIPFA student network has been essential to my success and has connected me with numerous public sector accountants across multiple sectors. It’s fantastic to feel like I’m part of something bigger than me, working towards a common goal to provide the best public services possible.

Join the CIPFA Student Network – a community of current and recent students that represents the views and interests of students within CIPFA. Made up of volunteers from across all regions sitting on the student committee, we work alongside CIPFA regions and student services

• Harriot Winfield, Finance Manager, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust