Whirlpool – Patrick McHale, ACCA student, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology graduate
I chose ACCA because it offers a world of opportunities both as a student and as a member. Being ACCA qualified will enable me to be successful on an international level as all global employers recognise ACCA as a professional qualification that delivers highly skilled people.
During my final year in Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, I was actively seeking employment with a company who offered the necessary study support and training to gain the required experience to become ACCA qualified. When I met a representative from Whirlpool SSC Ltd at a recruitment fair and heard about their organisation and the Finance Trainee programme that they had on offer, I knew that it was the right company for me.
The Finance Trainee programme not only offers graduates an opportunity to study and train with an ACCA Approved Employer, it also provides targeted professional and personal development, within a leading multinational environment, and one which has been voted one of the Top 50 Best Companies to Work for 7 years.
I graduated with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Accountancy in June 2009, and embarked on my career with Whirlpool SSC. After starting in the Accounts Payable department, I was offered a project role with the Requisition to Payment Team which impacted all of Whirlpool EMEA. This gave me the opportunity to develop and enhance my Thought Leadership, Vision, Strategy and Communication Skills.
More recently I was successful in obtaining a special assignment (based on ZBB principles) at Whirlpool's EMEA Headquarters in Comerio, Italy. This required me to work alongside Whirlpool EMEA's Leadership Team, further advancing my professional profile and technical skill set.
I am now starting into my third and final year on the trainee programme, with 3 ACCA exams left to complete. I am looking forward to another year of honing my skills and the necessary experience which will enable me to fulfil my career objectives and become a qualified ACCA accountant in 2012.
I would strongly encourage anyone considering a career in accountancy to choose ACCA as it provides you with the right tools and support to ensure you succeed now and in the future.
"global employers recognise ACCA as a professional qualification that delivers highly skilled people"
