Zahrah Mahmood CASummit-seeking

Chartered Accountant

icas.com/becomeaca

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTLAUNCH YOUR CAREER AS A

CAREER

CONTENTSCA

3 CA – two letters and a world of opportunity

4 The right call – why you should choose ICAS

5 Carve out your career – why become a CA?

6 CA spotlight – Zahrah Mahmood CA

7 Where does ICAS come in?

8 From Caithness to Cambridge

9 Life in numbers – Katherine Ritchie CA

10 Find your calling – four routes to choose from

11 CA spotlight – Samuel Ajayi-Obe CA

12 Catapult your career – five steps to qualifying

13 Life in numbers – Sophie Weston CA

14 A closer look at the qualification

15 Capitalise on your qualification

16 The CA CTA joint programme

17 CA spotlight – Nick McGlinchey CA

CONTENTSCA

LET’S INTRODUCE OURSELVES We’re ICAS, a global professional body for Chartered Accountants (CAs). Also known as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, we’re proud of our roots, and now train all over the UK and provide a globally recognised qualification.

WHAT’S A CA? A Chartered Accountant (CA) has trained with ICAS to reach the highest professional level by completing our programme of rigorous training and examinations in accountancy and business, whilst committing to a process of continuous professional development.

TWO LETTERS AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITYHaving the letters CA of Chartered Accountant after your name will open many doors.

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WHY ICAS? WHY TRAIN WITH US?

THE RIGHT CALLICAS is a global professional body for CAs. We educate, examine and

lead, enabling excellence and working for the wider public good.

Over 22,000 Members have achieved the internationally recognised and respected CA qualification of Chartered Accountant.

PROFESSIONAL PRESTIGETraining CAs since 1854, ICAS was the first-ever professional accountancy body. Our name has global recognition, it’s rich in heritage and ready to meet the challenges of the future.

A ONE-OF-A-KIND QUALIFICATIONNo other institute, training body or organisation in the UK can use the prestigious ‘CA’ designation.

A THOUGHT LEADEREverything we do, through a support process involving technical guidance, training and mentoring, is aimed at helping our Members continually advance their careers.

INTERNATIONAL SCOPEWe have developed several reciprocal agreements with international accounting organisations. Once qualified, the CA badge will be your passport to a world of exciting and financially rewarding possibilities.

A TRACK RECORDWe know the best possible paths to success with some of the world’s most prominent and accomplished business leaders qualifying as CAs with ICAS.

AN ABUNDANCE OF EXPERTISEOur content is cutting edge thanks to regular employer consultation. We know what the industry wants, and this will be key to your professional progression.

AN ETHICAL APPROACHWe consider the wider picture, delivering a qualification and teaching methods that meet our high ethical standards on honesty and accountability, and those held by industry leaders.

HANDS-ON LEARNINGWe combine expert tuition with practical application, easing your understanding of complex financial theory and practices.

THERE ARE OVER 22,000 CAs WORLDWIDE, HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THEIR LOCATIONS…

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WHY BECOME A CA? ICAS MEMBERS WORK ACROSS A RANGE OF INDUSTRIES.

4% CHARITIES/ NON-PROFIT

14.5% FINANCIAL SERVICES

3.7% RETAIL AND FOOD

4.8% ENERGY/UTILITIES

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT ACCOUNTANCY AND FINANCEBuild a wealth of business skills that will impress any employer. It’s a rigorous professional qualification, combining expert tuition, relevant workplace experience and unrivalled support.

MAKE YOUR MARK IN ANY INDUSTRY Work for the tech sector, a global financial centre, a big accountancy firm, charity or government department – or work for yourself.

STRONG CAREER TRAJECTORYWe’ll take you under our wing as you earn membership amongst a group of the world’s best business professionals. The high-flying career choices, challenges and rewards will follow.

JOB SECURITY AND SALARY There will always be a demand for the skills of CAs in business. ICAS CAs in their early career average salaries between £29k – £65k.

GAIN GLOBAL RECOGNITIONThe ICAS CA qualification is globally recognised and respected. No matter where you end up, your skills as a dynamic and forward-thinking professional will always be in demand.

BUILT FOR THE FUTUREEverything we do, through a support process involving technical guidance, training and mentoring, is aimed at helping our Members continually advance their careers.

75%OF FTSE 100 COMPANIES EMPLOY CAs

CARVE OUT YOUR CAREER

5.3% SELF EMPLOYED

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Shortly after graduating in 2012 with a BA Honours in Accountancy from Glasgow Caledonian University, I started the trainee program at Audit Scotland. I now also provide support to other young people as an ICAS Foundation mentor.

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD TO BE A CA?There’s an automatic sense of respect. People understand the hard work and determination that it takes to gain the qualification – it’s something that I’m proud to be associated with.

MOST INTERESTING PROJECT?Working at Audit Scotland, no day or week is the same as the previous, but as a Glaswegian my most interesting piece of work would have to be the Commonwealth Games audit. Seeing it in my hometown, my city and being a part of all the hype was just a really nice way to round it off.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME AN ACCOUNTANT?I wanted to be a pharmacist, but after work experience realised it wasn’t for me. So, I started exploring other options and found accountancy. I knew a few family members and friends in the field, they all spoke so highly of it and that convinced me to apply for university.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WELL-BEING?I really enjoy hill-walking, especially in Scotland. I got into it while studying for my ICAS exams. It’s a great way to regroup and refocus and has so many physical benefits as well.

ANY ADVICE FOR POTENTIAL TRAINEES?Studying with others helped me – from the social perspective and being able to bounce ideas off others. It’s not for everyone so find what works for you, but most importantly keep on top of it, there’s no room for cramming.

When deciding on her future path, Zahrah Mahmood CA valued the employability and job security that the qualification added to her CV.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

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IDEAL CANDIDATE

EMPLOYER & STUDENTA contract of employment with an Employer is secured and they will train our students and provide them with relevant practical experience.

ICAS & STUDENT Once someone has secured a training contract, ICAS agree to educate them and they agree to follow our code of ethics.STUDENT

ICAS*EMPLOYER(Authorised Training Office)

ICAS & EMPLOYERWe authorise firms that meet our exacting standards as Authorised Training Offices (ATOs).

WHERE DOES ICAS COME IN?We are your guide throughout your CA qualification and as you embark on your career journey. The visual below shows

how we, you (our student) and your employer all work together throughout your training.

*If you decide to complete your training in England, the course will be delivered by our training partners, BPP.

FIND a CA training vacancy: becomeaca.org.uk

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FROM CAITHNESS TO CAMBRIDGEICAS OFFERS ONLINE STUDY AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES THROUGHOUT THE UK. Learning and exams are delivered across the UK through a flexible blend of online and face-to-face support and resources.

This means that you can train with ICAS wherever you are in the UK, not just in the locations highlighted here.

No matter where or how you train, everyone receives the first-class ICAS experience.

ABERDEEN1

EDINBURGH2GLASGOW 3

LEEDS4

CAMBRIDGE9

LONDON10

MANCHESTER 5

BIRMINGHAM 6

BRISTOL 7

CHANNEL ISLANDS 11

READING 8

FIND a CA training vacancy: becomeaca.org.uk

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LONDON AND DUBAI CALLING18 I work for a pharmaceutical company, Advance Accelerator Applications in radiopharmaceuticals, mainly focused on patients with advanced cancer. The company has more than 1,000 employees in 12 countries and 18 production sites in 8 countries.

2 Cancer is the second biggest killer in the world. I drive projects that will help get our products to market more efficiently, via new technologies, cost-saving initiatives and by improving our supply chain. Day to day, we aim to transform the lives of patients.

2University was sandwiched between two gap years.

I studied economics and geography at Sheffield, covering macro/micro economics and statistics.

4 I loved maths at school, and I was a church bell-ringer which entailed memorising mathematical sequences to play melodies. After an introduction to the Big Four at secondary school, I applied to Deloitte’s and KPMG’s gap year programmes and worked for KPMG for six months.

2012 I love sport and had the privilege of being involved in London 2012 and Rio 2016. Sporting events are similar to projects with multiple stakeholders, you need to be able to work under pressure.

35During my time on the ICAS Young

Leaders Board I was tasked with engaging with under-35s. Now as a Member of the London Area Network Members’ Board, we drive engagement of all Members.

3 I had three promotions during six-and-a-half years with UK&I Operational

Transactions Services, EY and had the opportunity to work in 20 countries, including a secondment in Dubai. I worked with both private equity and corporate clients, to minimise risk and maximise value.

1/4One in four people in the UK

will experience a mental health problem this year. My Mental Health First Aid qualification helped me gain a better understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect people’s wellbeing.

LIFE IN NUMBERS Katherine Ritchie CA works at a pharmaceutical company, fighting cancer with radioactive medicine.

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FIND YOUR CALLINGTHE SCHOOL-LEAVER ROUTEStart training straight from school, gain invaluable real-world experience with an ICAS-authorised employer and earn a competitive salary while you do it.

REQUIREMENTSGood Higher or A Level results*. We don’t look for any previous knowledge of accountancy or finance, this is covered in your training.

LENGTH OF QUALIFICATION5 years approximately

THE GRADUATE ENTRY ROUTELots of students come direct to us after graduating from a variety of university degrees, all taking on our training agreement with an ICAS-authorised employer and earning a competitive salary throughout.

REQUIREMENTSA university degree that meets the employers entry requirements*. No previous experience in accountancy or business required. We welcome international students.

LENGTH OF QUALIFICATION3 years approximately

THE APPRENTICESHIPSOur two apprenticeship options are a great way for employers to train their employees and are fully funded by the government.

ENGLAND, The ICAS Level 7 Accountancy Professional Apprenticeship

LENGTH OF QUALIFICATION3 years approximately. Open to employees working more than 50% of their time in England. An opportunity to learn whist studying to qualify as an Accountancy Professional and Chartered Accountant. Funded by the government apprenticeship levy.

SCOTLAND, The RGU Graduate Apprenticeship in BA(Hons) Accountant

LENGTH OF QUALIFICATION5 year course. Includes paid workplace training and supported study, mainly online. Delivers an honours degree and CA of Chartered Accountant. Funded by Skills Development Scotland.

THE PROFESSIONAL ENTRY ROUTEThis route allows you to study for the CA qualification without giving up your current job. Carry out online learning, with training locations throughout the UK and flexible study and exams that suit you.

REQUIREMENTSYou’re already working in a financial role or you’re a university graduate with relevant employment experience.

LENGTH OF QUALIFICATION3-5 years approximately

If you’re ready to kick-start your CA journey and the path to a fulfilling career, there are a number of routes you can take.

*Entry requirements vary per employer, so please check carefully before applying.

VISIT>> ICAS.com/becomeacaSEARCH>> ICAS school leaver

VISIT>> ICAS.com/becomeacaSEARCH>> ICAS apprenticeships

VISIT>> ICAS.com/becomeacaSEARCH>> ICAS graduate entry

VISIT>> ICAS.com/becomeacaSEARCH>> ICAS professional entry

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I work in the Special Situations group within the Deal Advisory practice at KPMG. After joining, I undertook my training contract and qualified as a Chartered Accountant and now work with underperforming or distressed businesses to improve performance.

WHY DID YOU BECOME A CA?Both my parents trained as accountants, so I knew the length and breadth of career opportunities available, but also the level of work it takes to become one.

ANY ADVICE FOR POTENTIAL TRAINEES?Be prepared to work hard and be pushed outside your comfort zone. This is where growth and personal development occurs.

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD TO BE A CA?It’s a globally recognised qualification. It shows you’re hardworking, smart, ambitious and intelligent. And it

introduces you to a wide network the moment you sign up with many events organised throughout the year. I attended a lot of these to build and develop my network – I’m still in contact with some of those people today.

ULTIMATE CAREER GOAL?To be a trusted business advisor to private equity and venture capital firms and their portfolio companies. It’s a really fascinating field, some of the problems they’re trying to solve are really interesting – big problems that could have a significant impact on the world.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WELL-BEING?Keeping fit and staying healthy. I’ve also started to have “Slow Time” where I take time out of my day to meditate, to listen music without any other stimulants or go for a walk without my phone or any other devices.

ON THE CASESamuel Ajayi-Obe CA has a passion for helping businesses and used his CA experience to grow a network of likeminded peers.

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Whatever route is right for you, there are five main steps to becoming an ICAS Chartered Accountant.

CATAPULT YOUR CAREER

1. MEET THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTSDepending on your chosen route, we’ll ask for Highers, A Levels, a degree or relevant professional experience.

2. SECURE A TRAINING AGREEMENTIf you’re a school leaver or graduate entrant, you’ll have to secure an ICAS training agreement.

We work in partnership with our ICAS-authorised employers to offer a range of employment options. Whatever your career aspirations, we’ll have something to help you get there.

FIND a CA training vacancy: becomeaca.org.uk

3. GAIN REAL-WORLD PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCEDemonstrate key practical skills and record them in an Achievement Log.

4. PROFESSIONAL STUDYWith our expert support, you’ll study and pass the three levels of the CA qualification, and the dedicated Public Trust & Ethics assessment.

5. WEAR YOUR CA WITH PRIDEApply for your ICAS membership and add those all-important letters to your name.

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TAKING CALCULATED RISKS LIFE IN NUMBERS

After training at Ernst & Young, Sophie Weston CA launched a start-up.

6My dad’s an accountant, as are my brothers, so it’s a bit of a family trade. I went to school in a tiny village, in a class of six, it was amazing.

100I’ve got into weightlifting as part of my new start-up life. I’m almost at my 100kg deadlift goal, 92.5kg is my personal best.

2002I went to Nottingham University to study ecommerce. It was early days for that kind of degree – Amazon was almost the only major player at the time.

10I completed the ICAS mentoring scheme in Australia. My coach taught me to take 10 minutes to step back and understand the big questions rather than dive in headfirst.

4 Training at the Big Four is the best start you can get because of the length and structure of their investment. Mine was at Ernst & Young and the ICAS training was amazing.

44That’s how many countries I’ve visited, working and travelling through South America, Australia and Asia.

2018I founded Fragrance Tech. Most consumers find it hard to describe why they really love a fragrance, to identify the notes and chords. Our technology makes recommendations based on previous purchases and preferences.

2Within 2 months, I secured investment for Fragrance Tech. As an accountant I was confident taking the calculated risks. Businesses often fail because of cashflow issues, but that’s my bread and butter.

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A CLOSER LOOK AT THE QUALIFICATIONThe ICAS CA qualification has been structured to deliver the skills and knowledge you’ll need to succeed.

A mix of study and real-world professional experience allows you to:- gain technical expertise in finance and accounting- develop broader business skills in management, analysis, communication and presentation

- obtain authentic industry practice- appreciate the importance of public trust and ethics.

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Business Ethics

CA Qualification Syllabus Stages and Content

Relevant Practical Experience

Test of Professional Skills (TPS)Getting down to the heavier technical subjects.

• Financial Reporting

• Strategic Finance & Modelling

• Risk & Technology (taught through integrated online learning) - NEW

• Assurance & Data

• Business Tax

Test of Professional Expertise (TPE)Practical, commercial and ethical evaluation of real-life business.

• Case Study

• Public Trust & Ethics

Test of Competence (TC)Covering the basics of accounting.

• Financial Accounting

• Finance

• Business Acumen (nurturing • entrepreneurial spirit of CAs)• – NEW

• Assurance & Reporting

• Principles of Tax

• Management Information & • Technology (modern practices • including blockchain and • crypto-currency) - NEW

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) is a way of comparing Scottish qualifications from school, college, university, and work. Each qualification is given a level and number of credit points. Credits show how many hours it will take to complete a course.1 credit = average of 10 hours learning time.

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)

35 credits. SCQF Level 11. Comparable to holding a Masters Degree

10 credits each module. SCQF Level 9. Comparable to an Undergraduate Degree

15 credits each module. SCQF Level 11. Comparable to holding a Masters Degree

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CAPITALISE ON YOUR QUALIFICATION

EXPERIENCEWith our packed calendar of events, you can:- network with like-minded colleagues at CA dinners and events

- drop into masterclasses on special-interest topics- attend high quality, free-to-attend webinars and virtual events to expand your knowledge and networks.

The learning opportunities don’t end when you qualify with ICAS. Take advantage of our mentoring sessions, technical workshops and networking events.

CONNECTBecome a CA and join a global community covering a wide range of companies and professions. At ICAS, we foster that bond, building a network of knowledge and experience.

GROWWhether it’s a job change or opportunity for skills development, ICAS will support you with:- mentoring opportunities with qualified CAs- courses, webinars, workshops and conferences to advance your career.

LEARNOur schedule of updates, in-depth analysis and commentary ensures your skills remain up to date, whatever your specialism.

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THE CA CTA JOINT QUALIFICATIONStudy towards two prestigious qualifications in accountancy and tax.

ICAS has entered into partnership with the Chartered Institute of Taxation to bring together two high-quality designations. The joint programme allows students to specialise in one of three areas of tax:- owner-managed businesses- major corporates- indirect taxation.

FAST TRACKStudents can achieve their designatory letters in as little as three years by combining the CA and CTA study routes, providing exam exemptions where relevant. This way you can reduce study time and overall costs.

The credits available will ensure that students will still cover the full CA and CTA syllabus but with a reduction in overlap when compared to sitting these individually.

VISIT>> ICAS.com/ctaqualification

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I work in PwC’s Middle East restructuring practice as part of a wider deals advisory and I’ve been based in Dubai for the last 18 months. I did my CA training in a small, boutique accountancy firm based in Edinburgh before moving to the KPMG deals team.

HOW WAS THE TRAINING?It was a very rewarding experience, you get to meet a lot of new people, people that you perhaps might not have come across before.

WHAT COUNTRIES HAVE YOU WORKED IN? My Chartered Accountant qualification has allowed me to work in places I couldn’t have imagined. I’ve been able to work in London, Wales, across Scotland and now in the Middle East. More recently, I’ve been working across the United Arab Emirates and in Saudi Arabia.

HOW HAS BECOMING A CA IMPACTED YOUR WORK?We hold ourselves to the highest standard and that’s what separates us from the rest. I know that being a Chartered Accountant, especially from ICAS, you can depend on the work being top quality.

ANY ADVICE FOR POTENTIAL TRAINEES?My advice to anyone studying for their Chartered Accountancy would be to persevere. You’ve got to work hard, and you’ve got to put in an effort, but you will get it if you want it – trust me.

Best of luck in your future careers. I hope you do go down the path of studying at ICAS. Of course, I’ve already mentioned that it’s a challenge, but it’s 100% worth it. You never know where you’ll end up but I’m sure it’ll be somewhere great.

Nick McGlinchey CA took full advantage of our training opportunities to broaden his knowledge and his horizons.

HIGH CALIBER

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CARVEOUT YOUR FUTURE

Contact us

CA House, 21 Haymarket Yards, Edinburgh, UK, EH12 5BH+44 (0) 131 347 0100

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