Corrina Assistant

I had recently moved to the South West and when I was looking around at potential employers it stood out as not just the largest but the most dynamic and forward thinking firm in the region. I liked the fact that PKF Francis Clark was part of a national network but also retained the feel of a regional firm.

I work in Audit and Accounts across a range of sectors but with a big focus on charities and academy schools. Having previously worked as a teacher I am really passionate about education and I have been able to use that in my role here and really play to my strengths and interests.

There is a real team spirit in the office and a collaborative environment. Lots of events mean you get to know people all around the office and there is always someone you can look to for advice when you need it. There is also quite a lot of cake!

I felt very at home and welcome here from day one. The culture is very inclusive and there is a real focus on wellbeing. People are motivated to work hard and to achieve their best but there is also an emphasis on achieving the right work/life balance for you.

Since joining the firm last year I have seen a rapid increase in my levels of responsibility and have taken a more leading role with the clients I am working on. In the future I would like to take a managerial role with responsibility for a portfolio of clients and get more involved with developing junior staff.

I am currently in the last few months of my ACA qualification and I actually won the Railton prize for the highest mark internationally in the Business Strategy and Technology exam which I sat last year. I attended the prize giving ceremony in London where the president of the ICAEW awarded me the prize. That was a very proud moment.

There is a very supportive environment in the office and I am comfortable asking any of my colleagues for help when I feel I can’t solve a problem alone. My line manager catches up with us all on a regular basis and offers help and support where it is needed.

Making the most of the opportunities available to you and being curious and passionate about the work that you do.

Definitely do it! Come and have a look around the office and get a feel for how you would fit in – I had the chance to chat with current staff members during my interview day and it really made me feel I was making the right choice.

Collaborative, Stimulating, Varied.

Taylor Swift, Alan Turing, Darcey Bussell – what an interesting evening that would be!

Anywhere I haven’t already been! South America is pretty high up my bucket list.

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt – I urge you to read it before the film comes out.

Florence + the Machine – Ceremonials.

It’s a great album and really up-lifting. Putting it on always makes me smile and reminds me of a really fun time in my life.

Find something every day to be grateful for.

A milk frother I bought from Ikea for £1 – being able to make chai lattes at home has changed my life (and improved my bank balance!).

A long sunny day at the beach with family, friends and good food.

That life is too short not to seize opportunities that come your way.

Walking the beautiful beaches and coastlines of Cornwall, paddleboarding, practicing yoga, reading, cooking and playing with my cats!

I’m trying to improve my surfing. I live about two minutes from Fistral beach so I really feel like I should be better!