I’m Blair Cassidy, and I’ve recently taken an exciting new step in my career. After three and a half years in RSM’s audit team, I recently moved to the consulting team – and I’ve enjoyed my journey at every step of the way.

Starting out in audit

After studying accountancy and finance at the University of Glasgow, I joined RSM as an audit graduate. Before starting the role, I took six months out to work as a ski instructor in Switzerland, a completely different experience that taught me a lot about confidence and adaptability – skills that have not gone to waste at RSM.

Right from the start of my journey, I’ve worked with a wide variety of clients, including large corporates, listed companies, housing associations and pension schemes. Each brings its own challenges and learning opportunities. Listed jobs are always exciting because of the tight deadlines and the chance to work with senior, high-profile individuals.

Taking on responsibility early

One of the best things about RSM is the responsibility you’re given early on. I regularly spoke to directors, chief finance officers and partners, which helped me develop strong interpersonal and networking skills. Partners have involved me in business lunches and events where I could learn from successful professionals. That exposure really shaped my career through managing these relationships. These experiences also taught me how to handle complex conversations and gave me confidence in my professional abilities.

Finding the balance between work and exams can be challenging at times, but the consistent support from my colleagues in the Glasgow office was invaluable. My manager has always encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, and having a close network of colleagues going through the similar processes made a real difference. There was always someone to talk to, revise with, or learn from.

My communities, in and out of work

RSM isn’t just about work, there’s a real sense of community. I captained our team at the annual Barclays football event, which raises funds for the charity Maggie’s . We also spent a day volunteering for our RSM Together charity, The Halliday Foundation , helping at a local food bank. Outside of work, I often play five-a-side football with colleagues and have recently taken up golf. These activities make it easy to unwind and build real friendships with the people I work alongside every day.

Making the move into consulting

After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant earlier this year, I started thinking about my future career and if there was a way I could pursue my other interests within RSM’s service lines. I was drawn to consulting, specifically due diligence where we review the financials, contracts, risks, and operations of a business before an important decision. I spoke with one of the due diligence partners to understand the team and their work, and after careful consideration, I made the move in September.

Now, as a Corporate Finance Associate, I work on projects across the UK, from mergers and acquisitions to business valuations and cash flow analysis. Every week is different; I might work with a London partner one week and Manchester the next. The variety and pace make it an exciting and rewarding role.

Reflecting on my career at RSM

My journey shows that progression at RSM is real. With hard work, supportive managers and a willingness to embrace new challenges, you can shape your career in ways that suit your ambitions. If you’re looking for a firm that’s professional yet personable, ambitious yet supportive, RSM is the place to be.

Make an impact. Be our future.