David Barrett is a finance analyst within the Spreads division of Kerry Foods. This is part of the Kerry Group, a world leader in foods. David holds a Commerce Degree and a Master’s in Economics from University College Cork.
Name: David Barrett
Course: CIMA professional accounting qualification
Why CIMA?
I chose CIMA as I knew that CIMA provides students with the skills not just to report the numbers but to accompany this with value adding analysis. The ability to add value to the figures you are reporting is a key advantage of the CIMA qualification. The experience has underpinned that. CIMA has helped me develop my strategic thinking. It encourages you to take a step back from the figures you are reporting and gets to start asking why. This is important.
What does your role involve?
It is a very interactive role. It involves liaising with different departments and people to ensure that we are aligned at all times. Another advantage with my job is that my input is always valued and encouraged. I was a SAP super user when we moved from our legacy systems to SAP across the UK in October 2011. SAP will go live across Ireland this year and last year’s launch has provided me with some key skills that I will put to good use this year.
How did you find studying CIMA?
Large aspects of the CIMA syllabus relate to my work. You could be studying for your exams one evening and applying that knowledge to real life situations the next day. This was particularly true in the case of product costing. I found that by studying the syllabus I was enhancing my knowledge in my own role. As I progress to the strategic and TOPCIMA stages of the qualification, I see CIMA providing me with a platform. This will enable me to think more strategically. As a result, this will enhance my career prospects within the organisation.
How is Kerry Foods providing support for you to fulfil the CIMA professional development requirements?
Within Kerry Foods, the CIMA qualification is the preferred finance qualification. There are a number of senior directors across Kerry Foods who have finished their CIMA qualification. Therefore, they know first-hand the benefits this brings with it. With the open door policy that exists across the organisation, these directors are keen to pass what they found to be the key advantages of the qualification.
Comments