Improving students’ employability with Knill James Accountants
As a Business School we believe it’s vital to work closely with organisations to help improve students’ employability. Each year we hold two annual awards ceremonies, sponsored by a number of our business partners, the summer Prizegiving Ceremony and the autumn Excellence Awards Ceremony.
Nick Rawson, Partner at Knill James Accountants
We met with one of our sponsors from our Excellence Awards event this week, Nick Rawson, a partner at Knill James. We spoke with Nick to find out more about their relationship with our school and why it’s important to bridge the academic and professional worlds.
Why is it important that students are recognised by professional organisations such as Knill James for their achievements?
“It is so important that accountancy firms adopt a trainee programme to be able to get to the ‘grass roots’ level. These programmes ensure that we nurture trainees through their qualifications and throughout their accountancy career.”
Toby Read, winner of the Kill James sponsored prize for the best first year student in Accounting and Finance BSc(Hons). Pictured with Head of School, Professor Jonathan Doust.
Why is it important that students have access to professional organisations?
“The opportunity to work with other highly experienced professionals gives graduates the opportunity to learn first-hand what the job entails. It also teaches them best practice working in real-time situations.”
How do accredited courses, like Brighton’s, help prepare students for their future careers?
“An accredited course give graduates a step up to the best trainee roles which definitely benefits their careers long-term. Having this kudos helps to lift their profiles above other candidates at interview. Therefore it is imperative that students seek out courses of this kind.”
Evelin Tamm, winner of the Knill James sponsored prize for best second year student in Financial Accounting and Reporting. Pictured with Head of School, Professor Jonathan Doust
Can you give some examples of how you have been working with Brighton students?
“We have working with the course leaders to identify opportunities where graduates can interview for our various trainee positions. We also support the Talent Awards that the school hold twice yearly, by offering prizes to the best students in various categories.”
Knill James recently sponsored three prizes at our Excellence Awards; the prize for the best first year student in Accounting and Finance BSc(Hons); the prize for best second year student in Financial Accounting and Reporting; and the prize for the best second year student in Management Accounting Systems.
What tips/advice would you give to prospective students about studying Accounting & Finance at University of Brighton?
“To ensure that you gain some valuable work experience during your studies where possible, and stay focused on the career path that you wish to follow. Also to stay in touch with accountancy firms you wish to work for, to ensure you remain in the forefront of their minds when you come to graduate.”
Benz Walshe, winner of the Kill James sponsored prize for the best second year student in Management Accounting Systems. Pictured with Head of School, Jonathan Doust.
Does Knill James have a graduate recruitment programme?
“Absolutely yes! Our graduates study with either the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ACA, ICEAW) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). We provide invaluable support around their studies as well as some real ‘hands on’ experience working within highly experienced, expert teams.
“We are particularly proud of our high pass rates and hope to continue to recruit the highest standard of graduates; working closely with Brighton University Business School for years to come.”
You can find out more about Knill James’ careers on their website.
About Nick Rawson
Nick Rawson, a Partner at Knill James, is Brighton University Alumni and therefore enthusiastically supports burgeoning talent from the school in the field of Finance and Accountancy. Nick has been a Partner at Knill James for 15 years and heads up their Tax Advisory department. This department provides tax and business advice, as well as un-rivalled personal attention, to business owners and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Nick has experience of providing Audit and Due Diligence services as well as specialist business planning advice to clients from a diverse ranges of sectors.
About Knill James
Knill James are a well-established and highly respected firm of accountants based locally in Lewes, providing services to businesses in London, Brighton and throughout the South East. Our experienced teams provide expert advice on key areas; including audit and assurance, business services, company tax, corporate finance, wealth management, tax planning, business strategy and advisory, management accounts, bookkeeping, outsourcing and alternative divorce support.
Clare Prust • December 1, 2017