Omar writes:
I have completed a four-week internship at VGC Group head office in Ruislip.
From 8 July to 2 August I worked with the finance department. I learnt a lot about VGC, as well as how the finance function works within the company, and how the business management system works as a whole.
I had gained much knowledge and experience being here. It has given me insight to what it is like working in an office environment. I have developed my skills for the future such as team working, communication, time management and listening.
Things I did during my time here:
- Checking that the top 20 VGC suppliers accreditations were up-to date. I learned that when the suppliers reach the expiry date it is compulsory for them to send a new certificate. Without this VGC cannot use them for projects.
- Feedback trend review – identify trends and patterns from feedback which the office manager receives.
- I contributed in the procurement team, and used SharePoint to upload purchase orders and save the GRN (goods received note). Then the accounts are ready for invoice. I learned how they handle materials and plant (machinery), and the plant list is completed every week. I learned that PO (purchase order) is a contract, which needs to include terms and conditions, and delivery address.
- On a site visit to Thames Valley Park and Ride in Reading (with another intern, Ryan Waite), I was able to see the car park being built. I met the senior engineer and two supervisors and observed each use of plant machinery. Also the health and safety regulations which are vitally important. Health and safety is emphasised a lot. Plant is used very carefully – there are strict guidelines and precautions that are put in place for safety reasons. It is vitally important to always wear PPE on site, and CSCS is needed for anyone to go on to the site.
- I spent a whole day with the personnel department and was able to format CVs for people. I learned how to structure the CV, which is important because there is a high demand for certain jobs.
- I was set a research task to find out how the finance function adds value to business. This involved a lot of critical thinking to understand the various functions which are fundamental for a successful business.
What I learnt about the company:
- I learnt about how delivery notes are used
- Importance of getting resources locally
- I looked into the business management system as a whole
- How invoices are processed
- How significant accreditations of supplier forms are
- Dealing with local businesses
- Difference between creditors and debtors
- How important feedback is taken and used constructively to improve the business.
To conclude, I would like to thank Career Ready for making this all possible, Anthony and Carlo, who suggested I consider doing my internship at VGC. Thank you also to the people who I worked closely with while I was here: Sam Balasundaram, Laura Perry, Matt Teasdale, Laurence Mckidd, Theresa Harrington, Bihesh Patel and Peter Bradley. This has been an amazing experience and I enjoyed it every day!
Main photograph: Manju Philip, management accountant; Gayatri Vyas, accounts assistant; Omar Miah, intern; Lorne Beris, senior accounts assistant (standing); Kalpna Gami, assistant accountant; Sam Balasundaram, finance director (seated)
