A journey into finance at Travis Perkins: Joshua’s story

The Travis Perkins finance team is down-to-earth, hard working and always welcoming to new colleagues. Joshua Sole spoke to us about his experience of starting work in this busy department at Travis Perkins:

Why did you join Travis Perkins?

Whilst they’re a thriving company both today and across their 200 year history, above all it was the company morals and value held for their employees that attracted me to Travis Perkins. From the CEO to new starters, it’s a very open culture. In some businesses the CEO wouldn’t know or meet a new starter for years, whereas at Travis Perkins there’s strong visibility of the senior leadership team. Everyone works as one to achieve the company goals. The company also really values employee progression. Being straight out of university and joining a graduate scheme I wanted training with the support I needed and the opportunity to progress in my career. Travis Perkins definitely delivered on this.

What are your colleagues like?

Every colleague I’ve worked with has been welcoming, I feel they really care about my progression and learning. Working from home during this time made me worry about making connections with colleagues; this hasn’t been a problem at all. Everyone is constantly making sure you’re happy, not only with work but with life as a whole. My line manager ensures I have plans set out and I know what I am working towards, which is amazing as a graduate. Everyone is looking to develop and help you as much as they can. It’s an amazing team; everyone works hard together, but we get on very well and have a laugh with each other.

What skills have you gained?

In my short time working for Travis Perkins I have gained so many valuable skills. Working full time whilst studying for CIMA I’ve had to learn to balance my time. This has allowed me to get the most out of both my studies and the graduate scheme. Graduates with Travis Perkins gain experience and skills in every sector within finance, an opportunity few people have. I’m building a rounded set of skills over the programme, which will stand me in good stead for my future career.

What’s been your proudest moment?

My proudest moment so far was actually the day I found out I’d been successful in getting on the graduate scheme! The opportunity is phenomenal and I knew it would set the foundations for a successful career within finance. Despite my tireless efforts throughout my A-levels and at university, I thought graduating during the peak of the pandemic would reduce my chances of success. I was so proud that I was accepted for this role with such a promising company. I can’t wait for each week of work and to continue this amazing journey.

What’s the hardest thing you’ve done to date?

The most challenging part of my role so far has been working from home. It has its benefits and overall, I do really enjoy it. However, it’s hard to express my desire to learn to my colleagues. I love taking on new tasks and challenges, and the majority of the time this has been achieved through the online world we’re currently working in. However, showing my colleagues my passion for the role hasn’t been as easy, and certainly more challenging than in an office.

What have you learnt about yourself?

I graduated university in the summer of 2020 and with little experience working within finance, it made me question if I was able to take on a role in the industry and make a difference to a company. Within the first week, I gained more confidence in my skills and knowledge, thanks to the support of my colleagues. The graduate programme requires you to learn at every opportunity and by doing this I can have a positive impact on the company and build a strong career within Finance at Travis Perkins.

If someone was thinking about joining Travis Perkins what would you say to them?

Take the chance and don’t miss out on an opportunity that can set you up for the future. Everyone at Travis Perkins wants to see you progress and will do their best to ensure you are a well rounded individual with the skills to go as far as you want to go, within Travis Perkins and beyond. The opportunity to gain experience, work full time and become fully qualified in either CIMA or ACCA in 3 years is an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.