Joseph Mugwagwa - Lewisham, BA Accounting & Finance, University of Greenwich

What attracted you to the scheme?

Having completed my degree I wanted to pursue a career that maximised my skill set, gave me the opportunity to put my degree to good use and provided exposure to a wide range of business operations. The London Treasurers scheme offered what I was looking for.

What finance knowledge/ experience had you had before joining?

Before joining the scheme, I had built up a range of accounting experience while working in the private sector. This provided me with a good foundation when I moved into the public sector .There are altruistic reasons for enjoying public sector work, where profit is not the motive and where employees contribute to society in a very direct way. I find it extremely rewarding to know that what I am doing is making a real and significant difference to the lives of others.

What sorts of projects have you worked on since you joined the scheme?

Since I joined the scheme the nature of my work has been diverse. I could be working on different projects everyday or on a bigger project for an extended period. During my first year, I worked in Corporate Finance and was involved in preparing financial statements, benchmarking of accounting activities and completing grant returns. I am now on my second placement working in Community Services Directorate, and have been involved in budget monitoring, developing trend analysis information and a cash flow forecasting model to assist service managers in their budget projections.

What has studying for CIPFA involved?

Studying for CIPFA has been challenging. However, as my colleagues have all been through the same experience it means everyone understands and is supportive - which is obviously a great help when exams are looming.

How have you used the learning from CIPFA so far?

The qualification is a great thing to have. It is highly respected and gives you a good understanding of how the public sector works. I've been able to apply formal knowledge gained through CIPFA with on-the-job training in areas such as project management, audit and tax. Lewisham has a clearly structured path for career progression for new graduates which means good performance is recognised and this provides a great incentive to develop and improve.

What have you enjoyed most about the scheme so far?

I've enjoyed being given a lot of responsibility and interesting projects to manage. This recognition early on in your career is extremely motivating and rewarding.

Why would you recommend the scheme to others?

If you are keen to learn quickly and benefit from great support networks whilst at the same time gaining a very valuable business qualification I would recommend this scheme. In addition, as a CIPFA student you will benefit from making friends and contacts in other departments. These people will provide you with a ready made peer group who will be able to help you throughout your finance career.