Cael: My workdays have been anything but monotonous since I joined UHY
When Cael Ogden joined our Manchester office in 2023, he already had an appetite for success and a passion for advancing his career. This commitment to professionalism and his drive to help others perfectly aligned with our Manchester office’s people-focused approach. In the eighteen months since his appointment, Cael’s career has progressed from strength to strength, culminating in his nomination and subsequent shortlisting for Young Apprentice of the Year at the 2024 North West Young Professional Awards – a true testament to his hard work and dedication.
Cael’s career began with a desire to understand how businesses operate and how they can be improved to enhance their longevity, coupled with a passion for helping others, which led him into the accountancy world.
Joining UHY was a natural progression for Cael, having spent over four years at his previous employer; he was excited by the prospect of greater development opportunities and joining an organisation with a national and international scope. The transition was made easier as many of his ex-colleagues already worked at our Manchester office and championed our organisation, its extensive network and the ongoing development opportunities available to all levels of the business.
“I know it may seem cliché, but every day really is different, and my workdays have been anything but monotonous since I joined UHY”, he shared. “I think that is one of the things I enjoy most about my role, some days I’m out working with clients, providing back-office bookkeeping support, completing annual accounts, or even training clients on leading accounting software like Xero and Nook; other days, I’m working from our office, supporting trainees, collaborating with the team and taking part in strategic development meetings as we are always looking to improve our processes and remain at the forefront of the sector.”
In his role as Accounts and Business Advisory Senior, Cael is often the first point of contact for clients when they face a problem. He credits the variety of his daily activities as one of the reasons his job remains so exciting as it ensures he is constantly learning and growing. Additionally, he also praises the training and support programmes and initiatives run at UHY as vital to his development. “The ‘lunch and learn’ sessions available at our office have been extremely beneficial; they’re accessible and engaging, covering topics such as ‘financial planning for the future’, ‘Committing to the organisation’s values’ and ‘Personal development in the workplace’. Each has really helped me understand how impactful skills learned in the workplace can be”, he shared.
The blend of theoretical studies and applying newly acquired skills on-the-job have been hugely important for Cael. He stated, “Knowing I have the knowledge and ability to apply what I’ve learned to my everyday job responsibilities has really shifted my professional mindset.”
For instance, Cael has developed a strong and adaptable communication style to interact with clients and colleagues alike. Additionally, the prioritisation techniques acquired during these sessions have become essential tools in managing his daily tasks and duties. Whether dealing with a busy schedule at work or handling personal commitments, these skills have proven to be indispensable.
Looking ahead to the future
Dave Kendrick, CEO of our Manchester office, shared, “Cael is a person who strives to be better and do better for others. He has fully immersed himself in UHY Manchester and is a shining example of the progress that can be made with the right attitude and commitment. During his time with us, he has built positive relationships with all stakeholders, colleagues, partners and clients alike. We are excited to champion his progression and support him to develop his career. He is the perfect representative of the future of the sector; ambitious, focused, eager to learn, and most importantly, eager to support client prosperity.”
With an eye on the future and striving to achieve his goals, Cael eagerly anticipates the challenge of his upcoming industry exams and qualifications. “I’m looking forward to beginning my professional exams and welcoming the challenges and opportunities they pose”, he stated.
Cael’s story is a testament to his ambitious nature and the nurturing and dynamic environment at UHY. His journey to date underscores the firm’s dedication to personal and professional development, and importantly, how his forward-looking mindset will continue to set the stage for his future growth and success.
