Pippa Bateman

I joined flinder in August 2018 as one of the first apprentices. I was ready for a career change and had no previous experience in Finance so it was definitely a gamble. There were only four others in the company at the time including the two founders but the help and coaching I received was amazing. Luke supported me so much in those early years and was always dedicated to my progression. Without that I don’t think starting from scratch in accountancy would have worked!

Throughout my journey I’ve always felt like a part of flinder and not just an employee.

I think that is what is so special about working here, everyone is valued and are always on hand to support one another. I’m lucky enough to have watched pretty much all the current team come through and that support system has always been there, it’s been so rewarding seeing the growth of team members I’ve helped. The risk flinder took by hiring me, with no finance background, speaks volumes about their commitment to development.

There are high standards at flinder and this is reflected in our work ethic, I’m fully on board with that. The pod structure is a fantastic way to feel like a team within a team, and my Pod Leader, Sunil has always been an amazing support. flinder provided a hybrid working set up even before Covid, which has always been so helpful as it offers flexibility that I think then enhances efficiency. It’s not a corporate environment, and I think the relaxed atmosphere helps build rapport with our clients.

The socials at flinder have always been a highlight, and it’s a great time for the whole team to come together and build relationships outside of work. As a group we are all so different but merge together so well.

It sometimes feels like we have been cherry picked and all have such a good time together. I have friends at flinder, not just colleagues. Of course, the ski trip is the social event of the year and I’ve been lucky enough to attend three, which have all been fantastic. I’m counting down the days to March for the next one already!

During my time at flinder I’m really proud to have completed AAT Level 3 and Level 4 and I’m now working towards ACCA. I owe so much to Alastair and Luke for the opportunity to learn and grow here, it has been so fulfilling. I’m also really grateful for the fantastic people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside.