I Got Hired: Yakel Consultants

Posted on: 30 January 2023 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Charlotte Sibcy is a class of 2021 Maths and Philosophy graduate now working at Yakel Consultants as a Business Analyst.

How did you get to where you are now?

Throughout my A-Levels and later my degree course, I completed several work experience weeks and insight days with top companies throughout the UK. I met everyone from accountants and compliance officers to magic circle lawyers. This gave me the chance to understand what each role involved and whether I'd be a good fit, it also showed me there are a number of different careers I would enjoy and it's not a case of searching for "the one". I always had a general interest in finance and property but until I applied with Yakel, hadn't considered it as a graduate career path. I now couldn't imagine doing anything else, since starting I've not only taken on more responsibility and management tasks but also started my Certificate in Commercial Real Estate.

What has been your best experience as part of your role?

My job is extremely engaging and exciting - we are a small team managing a varied portfolio of property investments across the UK with everything from Grade 1 listed office buildings to one development project converting a former Debenhams into luxury apartments. Day-to-day I love that my job gives the opportunity to travel and meet with professionals and entrepreneurs in such a wide range of industries. If I had to pick one favourite experience, I led a really fun project a few months ago where we developed an old office space into a large, 9-bed short stay apartment in Liverpool City Centre. During the development, I was able to take an idea from early research stages right through to design and completion which was extremely rewarding.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

During my last year at university, I applied to around 20/30 different graduate schemes. One application process in particular, for a graduate detective role with the Metropolitan Police, was extremely lengthy and intensive. This lasted for around 8 months so when I found out I was unsuccessful, it was so disheartening. Especially as I had already started making arrangements to move to London after graduation. The most challenging aspect for most people I imagine is the uncertainty and rejection from so many potential employers - particularly when the application process is so intensive!

What are your top three tips for other students and graduates?

1. Be open to applying for sectors and careers you haven't previously considered.
2. Many large companies offer insight days/ weeks so you can build professional experience on your CV and discover if you would really enjoy a particular career (they also give invaluable guidance on their application process).
3. Don't underestimate how important extra-curricular and transferable skills are.