Case Study

Number crunching Harry does the double

16 Jul 2024

Qualified accountant Harry has never been one to do things by half. Deciding that studying for a Diploma in Leadership and Management would blend well with concepts covered in continuous improvement (CI) theory, he doubled up and began working towards both accreditations.

The Senior Finance Business Partner works reporting, budgeting, and forecasting for the Restart Scheme, one of Ingeus’ employment programmes; a hugely responsible role ensuring Ingeus teams and DWP managers alike are informed of performance. Juggling the demands of his role, a gruelling fitness regime, and two professional qualifications is no mean feat, but Harry has a tactic to help.

“Undertaking the continuous improvement Green Belt through the Ingeus CI Academy has taught me a really valuable approach,” says Harry, who has worked for Ingeus since 2021. “No matter what you do, begin with the end in mind. Then, take small, productive steps each day towards it. I’ve applied it to my work, learning, and gym training. It’s about managing time and eliminating waste – the essence of Lean Six Sigma teaching. 
“My manager has been very supportive too, easing the load to allow for study time. Tackling both qualifications together has enabled me to get the most out of my studies and apply what I’m learning to my role.”

Harry’s CI studies have centred around analysing work flows, identifying problems, and implementing and embedding change. Seeing that monthly financial reporting involved a cumbersome transfer of data from the Ingeus accounting system to the Department for Work and Pensions, led to him devising a digital translation table to format the data more simply. In turn it has freed up time to look at insights and implications of the reports.

The Ingeus CI Academy supports colleagues to gain industry-recognised Yellow and Green Belts. Graduating in the summer of 2024, and completing his management diploma in January 2025, Harry already has his next goal in mind.

“I always want to develop,” he concludes, “so maybe a Black Belt is on the cards next year. Ingeus encourages staff to develop, and my learning to date has been overwhelmingly positive. I’ve got a lot out of it, personally and professionally, and feel supported to continue. When it comes to workplace learning, Ingeus certainly puts its money where its mouth is, and for an accountant that’s always appreciated!”