Meet Ashley!
When Finance Officer Ashley joined us in March 2024, she brought with her a clear ambition to continue developing her career in finance. Thanks to Finance's developmental learning scheme, she has now achieved her AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) which is a respected and internationally-recognised qualification.
Starting as a Support Assistant for Midlothian Council’s Finance Team in 2018, Ashley was keen to progress further within the finance world. She completed the first two levels (of three) of the AAT with Midlothian before taking a break to start her family.
Technical knowledge and practical skills
From the outset, both Ashley and our organisation were keen that she continue with her studies which she resumed in July 2024. Her new qualification is already benefitting her and the work of her team:
“It’s provided me with technical knowledge and practical accounting skills that I can use in my role, to better support the Service Accounting team. I have more confidence with the work I do and a better understanding of how my role fits into the wider finance function.” she says.
David Henderson, Service Manager was quick to praise Ashley’s achievement saying: “She has shown considerable skill to balance her job, studying and her homelife and achieve her qualification. We are delighted for her”.
Grow our own talent
Finance has been working closely with HR colleagues to revise its training accounting scheme, viewing it as an opportunity to ‘grow our own’ talent. While Ashley is the first member of the team to gain a qualification, a number of colleagues are currently undertaking their studies: “The idea is to give staff the opportunity to build their skills and ultimately become fully qualified accountants. It helps address workforce gaps while offering meaningful career development and creating natural successors for future vacancies,” David explains.
Ashley can now pursue a full accounting qualification with the support of her team, receiving numerous exemptions due to the work she has already undertaken.
Reflecting on her achievement she says: “It wasn't easy trying to juggle working full time, with home life and study… it was hard at times to find the energy to stay focused. But that has made the achievement even more rewarding, that I was able persevere and overcome the challenges.”