I applied to Hastings Direct after I graduated because of their reputation for providing a variety of opportunities to their employees. In the three years since I joined, I’ve experienced that first-hand - I started in the sales department and I’m now in the claims credit hire team. And, as the company’s continually growing, it means the opportunities for employees are becoming bigger and better. I really enjoy the social aspect of working here. As well as recognition events such as the 4Cs awards evening, we also have quarterly team meals or activities.

After working in retail, I was interested in using my customer service skills in a new way, over the phone instead of face to face, so I applied to Hastings Direct. If you’re willing to put the work in, there are lots of development opportunities to build a long-term career here. I’ve had additional training and gained experience that’s really helped my personal and professional development. There’s a great social atmosphere too, with everything from team meals to staff awards that recognise great work.

It was the opportunity to gain a variety of exposure to different areas of finance that attracted me to the programme. I’ve contributed to some major projects, such as helping to produce the group’s annual report. I was also proud to be part of the team to deliver the IPO, which was a huge achievement for the company. With the study support I received, I’ve also passed my ACCA and become a qualified accountant. So now I’m looking forward to my new role as a Management Reporting and Planning Accountant here and to continue developing myself and progress my career.

From my first interview, I could tell this was a business trying to grow and to change and that I’d be allowed to get stuck in and make a difference. I found that exciting. Our people approach things with a positive, can-do attitude. The buzz, energy, drive and agility that are intrinsic to our ways of working make a massive difference to me. Finance can be really engaging or really dull. Hastings makes every day new and interesting, which means I love coming to work. And, after working here for six years, I still know I can make a difference.