“I learn something new here every day”
Maxime Vande Velde has been working in the Accountancy department since 2023, focusing on accounting. The best part of his Grant Thornton life? A close-knit team and strong training opportunities – even if his colleagues all support the WRONG football teams.
Who is Maxime Vande Velde?
- Position:
Senior Accountantavid Real Madrid supporter - Age: 24
- Office: Jumet
- Energy source: the desire to keep growing and showing what he's capable of
- Hobbies: cars, football and strength training
How did you end up at Grant Thornton?
Maxime: “A former colleague of mine knew one of my current colleagues at Grant Thornton, who was looking for a Junior Accountant at the time. She recommended me, and I immediately liked the friendly vibe I felt during the interview process – as if I was in an organisation where everyone had known each other for years.”
What were your first weeks like at Grant Thornton?
Maxime: “I was introduced to the company’s programmes and immediately had the opportunity to apply my existing skills. I received a lot of support and guidance, which helped me integrate well into the team. As a junior employee, expectations were adjusted to my skill level, and there was a clear understanding that I might need time to adapt. To all my future colleagues out there: be humble, and don’t be afraid to learn and ask questions.”
How would you describe your daily work life?
Maxime: “Once you’ve become more familiar with your clients and the annual rhythm, you’ll develop a nice routine. The office atmosphere, however, is always guaranteed to be pleasant. The team has a close, family-like dynamic, and there’s no strict hierarchy – everyone interacts as equals. I joke around with my colleagues like I’d do with old friends – even if they all support the wrong football teams. Hala Madrid!”
What growth opportunities does Grant Thornton provide?
Maxime: “Grant Thornton offers regular training sessions, such as the ‘Hot Takes’ on Fridays, which cover a variety of technical topics. We also have monthly meetings in Brussels for updates and extra training when major changes occur, such as VAT reforms. But Grant Thornton supports external training as well. Personally, I’ve started my ITAA exams to become a certified accountant.”
Why would you recommend joining Grant Thornton?
Maxime: “Communication is so easy here, even between the different offices. It’s an open company that welcomes people from various backgrounds, and that strongly emphasises learning, career advancement and staying up to date. I learn something new every day!
Want to carve your own career path at Grant Thornton?