After graduating university in 2019 and with the back drop of the Covid 19 pandemic, Liam Calak found it challenging to find a trainee role as a chartered accountant.  Liam recounts ‘This was frustrating but understandable as the working landscape had changed from working in the office, to working remotely, and employers were facing uncertainties created by the pandemic. I understood that it was difficult for employers to train new recruits and for new recruits to learn on the job when a lot of training was being undertaken remotely.’

Liam secured his first role in March 2021 which was a relief as he was starting to question whether he would be able to secure the role that would allow him to follow a career as an accountant.

However having secured the role and commenced his employment it quickly became clear that he was not going to receive the training support that he desired to allow him to qualify as a Chartered Accountant. Liam recounts that ‘I received little support from my firm and had to undertake all of the studying from scratch on my own, I didn’t feel that this arrangement was putting me in the right place to succeed in the exams.  Consequently, I started looking for a firm and a role that would better support me’

‘This decision brought with it careful consideration as to where my next destination would be. I did not simply want to take the next opportunity that came along, it had to be the right one that provided me with all the tools and support to complete my journey as a trainee accountant and become a Chartered Accountant.’

Liam undertook extensive research and coupled with his previous experience had a good idea of what he was looking for from a new employer.  ‘My previous work experience, combined with my research meant I was more prepared when applying for and interviewing for potential roles.  I was therefore able to identify which employers were going to be a better fit for me.  I think it is important for anyone to find an employer that fits them the best, there are lots of great employers out there some will suit some people better than others, it is a matter of finding the employer that suits you the best.’

Looking back, was it the right move for Liam?  ‘Absolutely yes. The progress I have made over the last 3 years is immeasurable, and the experience and knowledge I have acquired has been invaluable. I look back at when I first started 3 years ago and it feels like I am a different person to who I am now (In a good way of course).

I enjoy the progression that my training has provided me. Every year there is opportunity to take on more responsibility and continuing the development of my technical and leadership skills. It is satisfying to go from “I don’t know how to do this” to “I can teach others how to do this”.’

This article was first published in November 2025 in the JEP careers supplement 

RSM Channel Islands is an Approved Employer with both The Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales and The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.  

Candidates wishing to apply for training positions with us should submit a covering letter and full CV by email to [email protected].

Liam went to The Knole Academy before studying for a degree in Accounting and Finance at Birmingham University. Liam moved to Jersey to further his career in accounting with RSM Channel Islands.