A spotlight on: Ben Hodges talks about his career journey

He took on new responsibilities, showing great attitude while training and managing new team members. Recently, Ben passed his Chartered Accountancy qualification, learning new skills and demonstrating great ability in balancing his studies, work and private life.  

You’ve progressed in our company from a graduate position to financial controller. Can you talk about your career journey, how you started and the skills you’ve developed? 

I started working at Project Centre as an Accounts Assistant, with virtually no previous experience. The team were very supportive and always took the time to explain new tasks to ensure I not only understood how to do them, but also why it was so important. Moving on with my career, I have tried to take this forward, giving time and explanations to new starters. 

I always had a clear ambition to become chartered and had clear objectives to reach the next step in my career. This virtual ‘road map’ definitely helped my understanding of where I was and what I needed to achieve. 

You’ve recently passed the Chartered Accountancy, congratulations! What does it mean to you and what skills did it help you gain?  

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Thank you! It means a lot to finally become chartered, it’s something I have been working towards over the last five to six years. It is a huge milestone in my career! 

The chartership comprised of eight exams and a series of evening lectures, which were carried out once or twice a week after work. The course included lectures on financial management, auditing and business case strategies. Along the way a major skill I have learnt is the importance of clear and concise communication. I also understood the importance and ability to delegate tasks, showing trust and recognition to my team. 

I’m sure balancing work, life and studies was hard. Did you feel supported by Project Centre in your development? 

My line manager was always approachable, and I felt I could have open, honest conversations with him. This was hugely appreciated during lectures and exam periods. He offered a great support and helped with my duties, so I could study and finish the chartership. Our finance team was also very understanding and was able to take ownership of their work, carrying it on while I was away for studies.  

I also decided not to rush the exams and take them one at a time. This meant that I was able to carry on with my hobbies outside work, including playing hockey or going sailing. 

You manage a few people in the finance team, and you also have to ensure effective communication between the support function and other disciplines. How do you approach your management responsibilities, and can you share a piece of advice for new starters in the industry? 

As a line manager I always try to be approachable, and to build honest relationships. I believe in being fair with the team and praise them where it is due. 

The advice I’d offer to new starters would be to have both short and long-term goals, and of course be realistic with these! It helps to set clear objectives for your career and understand how to achieve these. 

Thank you, Ben, for taking the time to talk about your career journey. At Project Centre, we are committed to supporting our people in their development with mentorship programmes and qualifications in professional institutions. 

Check out our current opportunities and find out if there’s anything that matches your career goals.