I’m Jess Foulkes. I joined RSM in Stoke after finishing my A-levels three years ago. This October, I was promoted to Accounting and Financial Reporting Supervisor.

Exploring professional apprenticeships in accounting

At college, I studied accounting, business, and sociology - and quickly realised accounting was something I genuinely enjoyed. Like many people, I assumed university was the only way into a professional career, so I applied. But after doing more research, I realised it wasn’t quite the right fit for me. That’s when I discovered RSM at a presentation and Q&A event at college. I loved the structure, the support, and the chance to learn while working. RSM was a big firm with a local office, and it quickly became my top choice. As soon as I got the offer, I accepted.

Working as an accounting apprentice at RSM

I expected the office to be full of experienced professionals and worried I’d feel out of place. But it wasn’t like that at all. The team was welcoming, and the office had a mix of school leavers, graduates and people with varying levels of experience. It’s a diverse and friendly environment, and I felt like I belonged from day one. No two days are the same - which is one of the things I love most. I work with a range of clients, doing due diligence checks, preparing accounts, leading client calls, setting up budgets and producing quotes. I collaborate with teams across audit, tax and consulting to deliver the best experience for our clients.

Empowered to empower others

I've just been promoted to a supervisor role which has allowed me to take the next step in my career - taking on more complex work and working directly with senior members of the team. As part of this new role, I can also support junior members of the team through their development, guiding them through the early years of their career. This has been really rewarding. It's enabled me to give the same coaching and support to our new starters that I received at the beginning of my journey too.

Enriching my RSM experience

Outside of my work, I love a city break - my goal is to visit as many places as I can! RSM’s holiday benefits mean I can buy up to 10 extra days off each year, and I always make the most of that. When I’m not travelling, I enjoy Pilates and spending time with friends and family. I’ve made some of my closest friends at work, which makes socialising after hours easy and fun. I’m part of the Social Committee in our Stoke office, helping organise events like mini golf, darts and team meals. It’s a great way to connect with colleagues and build friendships. I also support early careers insight events, sharing my experience and helping others learn about the apprenticeship route and life at RSM. If you get the chance to attend one of our events, I’d recommend it - they’re relaxed, informative and helpful.

My advice for others starting their journey

Before joining, I worried that not having a degree might hold me back. But I quickly learned that we’re assessed based on our highest qualification - whether you’re a school leaver or a graduate, you end up in the same place. And as a school leaver, you gain valuable experience from starting your career earlier. If you’re thinking about applying to RSM, my biggest piece of advice is, just be yourself. Use your experiences to show who you are and what you bring. Interviews aren’t about having all the right answers - they’re about showing your potential and personality.

Find more about Jessica's story on YouTube

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