Voices of experience
Patrick - Finance Scheme Graduate
Hi, I'm Patrick from Finance. I'm currently in my final year of the Asda Finance Graduate scheme. My first role was in Business Planning where I was responsible for the construction and on-going management of all of Asda's store budgets. In my second role I was the financial support for a Walmart international investors conference held at Asda in April 2010, with my main focus being the production of a review book on Asda's business strategy and performance.
I'm currently looking after the accounting for all Asda's Health & Beauty and non-edible grocery products. There is a standard set of procedures to deal with every month but working in retail means that my priorities could change in a second. Working in such an interesting and fast paced environment really keeps me on my toes!
Something I've really enjoyed about Asda is the level of responsibility given to me from day one, however there is also a strong support network that surrounds me. It's not over the top, but I know that there is always someone ready and happy to help me. As well as this informal support, I also receive regular structured feedback through appraisals and career reviews.
As part of the Finance Graduate Scheme I am supported in studying for CIMA. It's a great qualification to be working towards - it's not just focused on ‘number crunching’ - as it has strategic and team management elements to it as well, which is of real benefit at Asda. It's hard work but I really enjoy my studies - I attend college with peers from Asda and other locally based companies - it's actually quite good fun!
Another great thing about being part of Finance is that I feel so central to everything that's going on. It gives me a holistic understanding of the business, because ultimately Finance plays a role in everything we do at Asda. Every month at the eFinance Forum' we come together as a team and talk about what's going on in the business as a whole, what's going well, what's new at Asda and what we are working to change and improve.
I know that I could be anywhere within Asda in five years' time. Although, what I'd like to be doing is managing a team in the finance department or in commercial finance role – but who knows?
When you join Asda as a Graduate you're immediately on a unique career path – your own. You can shape your own future, move roles regulary, and find your own way of saving people money every day.
