Chao came to see Jane at Community Works in October 2023 with her son Alan aged three. She had recently moved into a Harbour flat, and Alan had secured a part-time nursery place. Chao was volunteering as an Accounts Assistant for a charity and studying independently for professional accountancy exams with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
She had previously worked in a finance role in an accountancy firm in China, as well as running her own export company for a year. Jane provided Chao with some feedback on her CV and job search guidance. Jane also sent over suitable jobs, especially in the public and voluntary sector.
Together they went through a few applications where the form was very detailed, or it wasn’t clear what was required. Chao was clearly very driven, bright and would be an asset to a company, she just needed someone to give her a chance.
In December 2024, Jane reached out to a contact, Jonathan Brigain, to ask more about getting into accountancy. He mentioned his company Accountancy Scotland would likely be recruiting a Junior Accountant. Jonathan and Chao were introduced, and he offered her a four day a week job working from home as a
Trainee Accountant.
Chao said: “When I came to see you I had no idea how to get started with looking for a job. I had just moved home, was volunteering and studying and I needed help with my CV, job search and interview skills. I’m now enjoying putting theoretical work into practice and learning about working on clients’ accounts and
Accountancy Scotland’s accounts.”
To find out more about Community Works, email john.murray@harbour.scot or call 0131 553 8757.