From raving to thriving in a rewarding accountancy career

We recently caught up with Daisy Corke to find out more about her journey from apprentice to Supervisor at Rayner Essex. From raving outside of work to thriving in a rewarding accountancy career, Daisy shares how she’s challenged the stereotype of the “boring accountant” and why she enjoys building a career she’s genuinely passionate about.

Why did you choose a career in accountancy?

My route into accountancy wasn’t exactly planned. My dad once suggested that I might be good at it, and I remember responding with, “No, that’s boring.”

Not long after, I applied for an apprenticeship and was offered the role. Once I started, I quickly realised how wrong that assumption was. The work was varied, challenging and far more engaging than I expected, and I found that I genuinely enjoyed it.

What did you do prior to joining Rayner Essex?

Before joining Rayner Essex, I worked at two other small accountancy firms. When I first began my apprenticeship, I was also working at The Alban Arena.

My very first job was at Simmons Bakery, where I worked as a Sunday Supervisor before I turned 18, giving me early experience of responsibility and managing people.

Why did you choose Rayner Essex, and why is it a good fit for you?

I chose Rayner Essex because I felt it would allow me to develop my skills and knowledge in a supportive environment.

In my previous role, I worked across a broad range of areas, including audits and personal tax returns. Joining the Accounting Solutions team allowed me to narrow my focus and build deeper expertise in a specific area of accountancy.

The level of support at Rayner Essex, both with studying and day-to-day work, has been excellent. I feel it’s been a great fit for me, as I’ve progressed from Semi-Senior to Supervisor and my hard work has been recognised.

What is your role and what does an average day look like?

I’ve recently been promoted to Supervisor within the Accounting Solutions team in St Albans, so my role has evolved.

No two days are the same. I regularly support team members with queries on bookkeeping jobs while managing my own client work. This can include preparing or reviewing year-end accounts and VAT returns, as well as making sure the team is comfortable with their workload and deadlines.

What is your greatest achievement and what motivates you?

My greatest personal achievement is buying my first house. Professionally, becoming ACCA part-qualified is something I’m very proud of.

I’m motivated by the opportunity to keep learning and developing in my career, as well as being able to make a real difference to our clients and support them personally and in their businesses.

What do you like most about working at Rayner Essex?

The support I’ve received from the firm as a whole has been fantastic. Everyone is friendly and approachable, and I get on well with people across all departments and levels of the business.

Coming from a very small firm, I’ve really enjoyed being part of a larger team with so many people to learn from. I also value the work-life balance – we work hard, but there’s a strong social side too, with events organised by the social committee.

I particularly enjoy the communication I have with clients and knowing that my work makes a meaningful difference to them.

Tell us a little more about you – something not many people would know

Outside of work, I enjoy days out in London, whether that’s shopping or going out for food with friends.

I’m also a big fan of drum and bass, whether I’m listening at home or heading out to a rave.

Where next in your career?

My next goal is to complete my ACCA qualification and become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant – I currently have two professional exams left.

I’m looking forward to continuing to develop in my Supervisor role with the support of the Accounting Solutions team.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in accountancy or finance?

Just go for it! I’d personally recommend an apprenticeship, as it allows you to build practical experience while earning at the same time. And don’t knock it until you try it – I certainly did!

Photo by Charles Asselin on Unsplash