Continuing with the #NationalCareersWeek theme, our part-time Management Accountant, Rebecca Kemp has let us know about her job and what it is like to come back to work after maternity leave.

When did you start work at Newbury Racecourse?

I started on Saturday 1^st December 2012, Hennessy Gold Cup Day!

What did you do prior to working here?

Before here I worked at James Cowper Chartered Accountants in Newbury and Oxford for 10 years. I started there straight after leaving 6^th form and they took me through my AAT and ACCA qualification, I qualified as an accountant in 2007.

What was your first job here?

Full time Management Accountant. It was a big transition moving from Practice into Industry after 10 years but one I am thankful to have had the opportunity to make.

The key part of my role is preparing the monthly accounts for Newbury Racecourse. This is very interesting and varied as it is not just the Racing accounts that I do but also those for the Rocking Horse Nursery, The Lodge and the Conference and Events business. I also worked racedays where I was involved in gate set up and cash office management so something very different to my day to day role.

What is your current job here?

Part time Management Accountant. I had my son Remi 2 years ago and returned after a years maternity leave in a part time role. I’m very lucky that while I’m at my desk working I know my son is in safe hands across the car park at the Rocking Horse Nursery.

What was the hardest part about coming back to work part time?

It’s hard to fit everything in. I have to stay very organised and manage my time well.

What advice would you have for someone looking to get into a similar line of work?

Experience to gain good accounting knowledge is key, I was very fortunate to have been offered an apprenticeship at James Cowper when I was 18 which has been invaluable.