Jamie Ponting

Head Office: Business Assurance Officer

I studied at the Finance Academy at Cirencester College, where I achieved A's in all of my A Levels as well as a distinction in Personal and Business Finance BTEC. The Finance Academy gave me a real insight into finance and the industry itself, and had tailor-made courses effectively fast-tracking students straight into the workplace. At the time, I was also working as the main checkout supervisor at my local supermarket, and was offered the chance to do management courses there. However, my plan was to go to university, but this all changed after a six-week internship at Capita in Swindon during my final year at Cirencester College.

Even when studying I've always worked, but after getting more money in my pocket and seeing what opportunities were out there, I decided to go straight into the world of work. On top of what the supermarket was offering me, I had a few interviews for accountancy jobs. However, the Finance Academy had strong links with St James's Place, and I knew they had a good reputation from recent visits. It was clear the company really wanted to invest in their people and help them develop - which was very appealing. So I decided this was the place for me, and accepted a job in the Business Assurance team.

This was my first full-time, office-based job so I had to pick things up quickly. The department was really supportive, and it was great to see such a friendly, fast-paced atmosphere with a really strong team mentality. Even today, there's always something new to learn, and I do feel that I've progressed massively and my manager is always encouraging my personal development. The results of which are clear, as I've just been promoted from within the admin team to case checker.

I'm thrilled to work at a company where the work rate is second to none, and such fantastic support is always there – especially as I've just achieved my Certificate in Financial Planning and have taken my first Diploma in Financial Planning Exam. After I've passed these, I'm going to take a break from studying (finally!).