Starting out in business recovery and insolvency at BRI has been a great way to learn how businesses really work – especially when they are facing challenges. As a Trainee Administrator, I have been involved in real cases from the beginning, helping companies that are struggling financially or closing down. It’s a job that mixes finance, law, and people skills, and it’s taught me a lot very quickly, which has made the work both challenging and rewarding.
One of the first things I have learnt, as a trainee administrator is that this job isn’t just about numbers – it’s about people. Companies in distress are not just balance sheets; they are made up of business owners, employees, and creditors. Early on, I found myself as a key point of contact, which made it clear how crucial it is to communicate with empathy, clarity, and honesty.
At BRI, do not expect to be sitting on the sidelines. I was involved from the start – drafting reports, reviewing financial data, attending meetings, and learning how insolvency processes work in real time. There is a lot to take in, from statutory regulations to how different business structures affect an outcome, but the variety is what makes it so engaging.
Although the industry is often associated with business closures, there is another side to the story: helping companies survive. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of efforts to rescue jobs, recover for creditors, and support business owners in moving forward, and even when closure is the only option, there’s pride in ensuring it’s handled with integrity and professionalism.
I was never expected to know everything from day one. I have had the chance to work closely with colleagues across different levels, including insolvency practitioners, managers and administrators. My working day is often fast-moving and team-oriented, which makes it easy to ask questions and learn as I go, it takes time to learn everything, but there’s always support from my team. Asking for help is encouraged – where no question is a silly one. You have to be thorough, pay attention to detail and be willing to learn every day. It is a busy environment, but a friendly one, where learning from others is part of the process.
One of the benefits of the industry is the chance to build your professional network early. As a trainee, I’ve been given opportunities to attend industry events and social evenings. Which has given me the chances to meet others in the same field, learn from experienced professionals and build my confidence. In a field where relationships matter – with solicitors, accountants, creditors and clients – networking helps you grow and it reminds you that you are part of a bigger community of professionals, not just your team or the company you work for.
Being a trainee administrator in business recovery and insolvency has been a big learning curve – You deal with real businesses, real problems and real people – and there is no room for guessing or winging it.
Charlotte Halliday – Trainee Administrator
