Meet nicola
Follow Nicola’s inspiring career path from school leaver to professional success with BDO's Early Careers Apprenticeship, mentorship, and support. Nicola joined BDO’s School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme, eager to gain practical experience and build a meaningful career from the ground up. Over the years, she’s taken on impactful roles, built lasting connections, and found a workplace culture where she can be her authentic self. Her story highlights resilience, ambition, and the importance of a company that values individual growth alongside team success. Let’s hear from Nicola herself as she shares her experiences, insights, and hopes for her future at BDO.
Q: How has BDO supported your growth and development as a School Leaver?
Nicola: "From the start, BDO has given me real responsibilities. One of the biggest opportunities I’ve had was becoming a software champion for a new system we’re implementing. It’s been amazing to meet developers, lead the project in my local office, and make an impact. I didn’t expect to be doing something like this so early in my career."
Q: Can you share more about what it’s like to work with experienced colleagues?
Nicola: "It’s been incredible to work with people who have so much experience. I can always ask questions, and no one ever makes me feel like I should already know the answers. Having this support is such a relief, especially when starting out. There’s no such thing as a ‘stupid question’ here, which has really boosted my confidence."
Q: Tell us a bit about BDO’s culture. How would you describe it?
Nicola: [laughs] "It’s definitely not just old men in grey suits! The culture here is so welcoming and diverse. I can bring my full self to work every day, whether it’s chatting about my passion for musical theatre or sharing my hobbies. Everyone is so open and accepting."
Q: How does BDO support your work-life balance?
Nicola: "BDO’s agile working model, called workABLE, has made a huge difference for me. This setup allows me to balance focused work and in-person collaboration with my team. I have benefitted from working in the office because I have had all of my team to support me and the ability to shadow them on projects I will take over. It’s been amazing to have that kind of flexibility, especially when I need time to concentrate or want to work directly with my colleagues to collaborate."
Q: You mentioned flexibility—what else do you find unique about BDO’s approach to early careers?
Nicola: "What really stands out to me is how BDO listens to us, even as new joiners. We’re encouraged to speak up, share ideas, and ask questions. The focus is on learning and growth, not just getting things done. That makes a huge difference because you feel like your perspective is valued, and you’re not just a number."
Q: What advice would you give someone looking to join BDO straight after college?
Nicola: “If you’re thinking about joining BDO after college, I would 100% do it. It has given me such a great build up for my future career here at BDO and i my foot in the door straight away. I’d never thought that I would have these opportunities at such a young age.”
Q: Looking ahead, what excites you most about your future with BDO?
Nicola: "For me, BDO isn’t just a job—it’s a place where I can truly be myself and grow. What’s beyond the ordinary at BDO is that I feel no pressure to be anyone else. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me and to keep building on what I’ve already achieved here."
Nicola’s journey with BDO’s School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme highlights the benefits of early responsibility, supportive mentorship, and a culture that values individuality. With flexible work options, hands-on experience, and a welcoming team, she’s been able to thrive.
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