We heard from Melissa and Oscar, Trainee Accountants at Langham Hall, on their application experience with the firm.
Why did you decide to join the Graduate Programme at Langham Hall?
MH: I have always been interested in analysing how businesses and investment funds are impacted by economic change, especially in the real estate sector. This paired with my interest in accounting is what drew me to pursue a career in fund accounting. When I was applying for graduate programme, it was important to me to work somewhere which would support my professional development, especially as I did not have a finance-based degree, having studied English at University. Langham Hall’s extensive focus on learning and development whilst also having a hands-on approach with practical exposure is what really stood out to me.
OP: I wanted to work in private markets and Langham Hall’s graduate programme offered me the chance to explore this interest. The graduate programme sets you up well for a successful career in the fund industry, allowing you to gain an in-depth understanding of fund operations, whilst acquiring practical skills and knowledge through sitting the ACCA exams. This is a valuable qualification and all being well you become a chartered accountant after three years, with a wealth of knowledge in the fund industry. For me, this was a very attractive offering, and it has definitely proved its case so far!
How did you find the Assessment Centre Day and application process?
MH: The application process was straight forward and really painted a picture of what life at Langham Hall was like. The interviews were in person at the office which I really liked. There was no need to know the ins and outs of what fund accounting entailed. It was also a chance to find out more about Langham Hall and the type of clients they work with.
OP: While studying for an economics degree at the University of St Andrews, I applied for the graduate programme and within two months of submitting my application, I had been offered a full-time position to take up on graduation. I was very impressed by the speed and efficiency of the whole application process. Having completed tests and online interviews, I attended the final stage of the application process, the Assessment Centre Day. This was an insightful day whereby I was able to meet some of my future colleagues and visit the London office.
What’s the best piece of advice you could give to someone who’s considering applying for the 2024 Programme? Any tips?
MH: Show that you are eager and willing to learn! Try to gain an understanding of what Langham Hall does before the interviews. Do some research on the firm and fund accounting so that you can speak about it at a high level. It’s also important to have some commercial awareness and be able to give some real-life examples. I found the Insights section on the Langham Hall website really useful!
OP: Really research what Langham Hall does and highlight points of interest. If it ticks the boxes for you, then just go for it! If you make it to the interview stages, ask lots of open-ended questions and be engaging.
What do you hope to be doing in three years’ time?
MH: A qualified fund accountant managing a team of my own!
OP: I hope to have completed my exams and be a fully qualified fund accountant! I want to take on more responsibility within the private equity team, becoming that focal point for my clients, with a view to leading a team of my own in the future.
Interested in joining Langham Hall? Explore their profile and upcoming opportunities here!