LESS than a year after swapping washing pots to train as an accountant, Roberta Sewell hopes to clean up at an awards ceremony.  

The 21-year-old from Darlington has earned a nomination for New Accountant of the Year at the North East Accountancy Awards.

Last July, she joined Analox Group in Stokesley North Yorkshire as a trainee accountant, and is studying part-time for her association of accounting technician (AAT) qualifications. 

Prior to joining the firm, which makes gas analysis equipment for submarines, Roberta worked for Middleton Hall Retirement Village in Middleton St George, working for three years in the kitchen washing pots and cleaning, and also serving in the restaurant.  

She said: “I’m overwhelmed to be a finalist in the awards, especially as I had no idea that I’d been nominated. I realised when I started this job that I’ve found what I love doing, but it’s overwhelming to be nominated for an award only nine months later.”

Ian Batchelor, Analox financial director nominated Roberta for the award.

He said: “Roberta is innovative in her approach to her work, providing us with solutions to issues we’re facing, despite her very short time working in accountancy.

“She introduced a cloud-based expenses system, taking away the need for staff to hold onto receipts.  This enables everyone to keep up to date with their expenses easily, even when away from the office.  Her real skill was in introducing this change. She gave immediate support to anyone experiencing difficulties, meaning that this new system was positively received throughout the company.

“Roberta also applies what she is learning through her studies for her qualifications.  For example, she identified how the company could mitigate the risk of keeping large cash deposits with one bank.” 

The winners of the Nigel Wright North East Accountancy Awards will be announced at the awards dinner at the Hilton NewcastleGateshead on Thursday June 13.