Finance graduate insight: James

Tell us about yourself.

I’m James and I’ve joined from Warwick University where I studied Economics, but I’m originally from Middlesbrough.

Tell us about yourself.

I’m James and I’ve joined from Warwick University where I studied Economics, but I’m originally from Middlesbrough.

Which scheme are you on and which rotations have you completed?

I’m a first year Finance Grad, currently in Commercial Accounting looking after the Profit & Loss statement for the area of our business that builds the CFCs (Customer Fulfilment Centres).

My main role is to monitor monthly spend and prepare a summary every month. I get exposure to Ocado’s global operations, which is super interesting. 

What does a typical day look like for you?

My typical day looks different depending on the time of the month. We have a couple of busy weeks when we’re preparing our P&L statement and Balance Sheet, and then usually a couple of quieter weeks, which is a great opportunity to improve your processes, catch up on your studies and of course have a bit of a rest!

Why did you apply for an Ocado Group graduate scheme?

Ocado Group is a great place to work. You'll hear it time and time again, but the culture is amazing. Everybody’s really supportive and willing to answer your questions. The Finance scheme is great because you get to complete a qualification alongside your work (CIMA or ACCA, it’s up to you), so you develop a lot throughout the scheme.

Where do you see the Ocado Group graduate scheme taking you?

After my three years on the scheme, I should have passed all my exams, which means I’ll be a fully qualified accountant. After that, I’m hoping I’ll have a good idea of what I’d like to do when I roll off.

Longer term, I’d like to do more strategic work, and I’d love the opportunity to work with non-finance stakeholders in the wider business to improve my understanding of Ocado Group.

What advice would you give to someone applying to this scheme?

Make sure you do your research on the business (and know the difference between Ocado Group and Retail!). Beyond that, keep in mind that the interviewers are looking for someone that they could work with, so remember to be collaborative, inquisitive, and most importantly, be yourself!

Change your world with us

Our graduates programme intakes get the opportunity to try out a diverse range of teams and specialisms, right across our business, technologies, and operations. Learn more here.