Bernice Fernandes is a Project Assistant Accountant at Volution. Alongside her role, she is currently working towards a ACCA Diploma in Accounting and Business which is funded by Volutions apprenticeship levy.
Bernice joined Volution in June 2022 as an Accounts Payable Clerk and has since progressed into Credit Control, building a varied and impactful role that supports Finance teams across the UK.
Her day-to-day responsibilities span Accounts Payable and Receivables, Payments and Refunds, as well as posting payments, closing open ledger items, and completing bank reconciliations—a role that requires both precision and adaptability.
Alongside her role, Bernice is currently working towards her ACCA Diploma in Accounting and Business, funded through Volution’s apprenticeship levy.
Reflecting on the experience, she credits the apprenticeship as a key driver in her professional development: “It’s given me the opportunity to learn while doing—understanding not just what I’m doing, but why. Being able to apply what I learn straight away has made the learning more meaningful and boosted my confidence.”
Balancing full-time work with study has helped Bernice develop a strong mix of technical expertise and professional skills, particularly in communication, organisation, and time management—strengths that continue to show in her work.
Bernice joined the manufacturing industry with curiosity and an open mindset, seeing it as an opportunity to challenge herself and learn something new.
She believes strongly that success isn’t about comparisons or labels: “There’s no need to compare yourself to anyone else or see manufacturing as male-dominated. When you do your job to the best of your ability, your work speaks for itself—and gender becomes irrelevant.”
Since joining Volution and the industry, Bernice has seen the industry evolve, with greater openness, stronger support for learning and development, and a clear focus on skills and performance over background—making it a more welcoming place for everyone.
Her advice to others considering a career in manufacturing is simple but powerful: “Trust yourself. Don’t hold back because of assumptions. If you’re curious, willing to learn, and prepared to work hard, you’ll find your place.”
Bernice hopes her journey shows other women that there is no single mould for success. With confidence, determination, and a willingness to learn, it’s possible to grow, progress, and take on new challenges—while staying true to who you are.
