Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy

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Name: Simon Perks
Job title: Assistant Manager
Employer: KPMG
University: Keele University (with placement at Tver State University, Russia)
Degree: BA (Hons) Politics, German and Russian

Simon Perks was encouraged to study for the CIPFA qualification by his employer, KPMG, and, since deciding to focus on the public services, he’s never looked back. “My job is just so lively”, he explains. “One day I’m working with a University in the North East, the next I’m helping a central government body in the South West. At the same time, I’m liaising with colleagues in Germany on a joint initiative we’re organising. And since I qualified I’ve taken on even more responsibility for my work and for that of my colleagues. I don’t think I’d get this level of variety – or challenge – in the private sector.”

KPMG and the other “big four” accountancy firms employ a great many CIPFA students and members, and offer excellent study support. Studying for the CIPFA qualification helps employees learn what they need to know for their jobs, and improves promotion prospects once they’re qualified.

Now Bristol-based Simon has completed his CIPFA qualification, he’s looking to the future: “Being a CIPFA-qualified accountant has opened up a huge range of opportunities. It’s good to know that, whatever I do, I’ll be helping to make a difference”.