Taking off the L-Plates
Early career stories are frequently characterised by pivotal moments that define the trajectory of the path ahead. Jacob Farthing ACMA CGMA Celebrates a year of growth, passion, and learning at Sempre Analytics.
As Jacob Farthing approaches his one-year anniversary with Sempre Analytics, it’s the perfect time to reflect on his journey and the meaningful experiences that have shaped him into a highly valued Anaplan Consultant. From his early days in finance at the University of Surrey to his role now, Jacob’s transition into consultancy has been marked by a passion for data, a love for problem-solving, and the pursuit of continuous learning.
The Journey Begins: From Higher Education Finance to Anaplan Consultant
Jacob initially envisioned pursuing a degree in chemical engineering, but after attending a careers fair, his enthusiasm was sparked for apprenticeships and the advantages they offered—gaining qualifications without the financial burden of student loans. He found his niche at the University of Surrey, starting as an apprentice management accountant. It wasn’t long before his talent for financial data and analytical thinking was recognised, leading to a transfer into a finance analytics role.
It was here that Jacob first encountered Anaplan, a platform that sparked his passion for technology and finance systems. He quickly discovered that Anaplan offered a powerful alternative to manual processes in Excel, streamlining planning tasks and making complex calculations more efficient. This planted the seed for his move into consultancy, where he could combine his love for finance data and expertise as a Chartered Global Management Accountant with his aptitude for systems to help organisations streamline planning processes.
A Year at Sempre: Highlights and Learning
Joining Sempre Analytics gave Jacob the exposure he was looking for—working on diverse projects across various industries. One of his favourite projects was with a well-known animal charity, where he had the opportunity to build a payroll system from the ground up. “It was incredibly rewarding,” Jacob recalls. “I had gathered all the necessary information and built a model that covered everything they needed. The best part? During the playback, there were no questions—it felt like I’d really nailed it!”
His respect for his mentor, Antoinette Cool, shines through when discussing some of the more challenging projects. One particularly tough assignment was with Keepmoat Finance, where Jacob had to unpick and rebuild an existing system. “It was a steep learning curve, but Antoinette’s patience and guidance made all the difference. She has a way of breaking down complex issues and helping me see the bigger picture.”
Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Ambitions
As Jacob reflects on his first year, it’s clear that he values both the independence and collaboration that his role offers. He thrives in a dynamic environment, often juggling multiple projects at once, from the Higher Education providers to housebuilders. This ability to adapt and manage diverse client needs is one of his strengths. Looking ahead, Jacob has his sights set on becoming a certified solution architect for Anaplan, with the goal of taking on more leadership roles in future projects. “I want to be the person who designs the architecture and leads projects from start to finish, just like Rob (Tindall) and Antoinette. The opportunity to mentor others is also something I’m excited about.”
Life Beyond the Office: Motorcycles and Adventure
Outside of work, Jacob finds joy in motorcycling. A recent trip to Tenerife allowed him to explore winding roads and the stunning views of volcanic landscapes. “It was such a unique experience, riding from sea level to the top of a volcano,” he says with a smile. Jacob enjoys the freedom of exploring scenic routes rather than chasing speed, and he’s always looking for the next adventure.
Jacob’s first year at Sempre Analytics has been a time of growth, learning, and success. His dedication to mastering Anaplan and his commitment to delivering exceptional client outcomes make him an invaluable asset to the team. With his focus on continuous improvement and the support of mentors like Antoinette, Jacob’s future looks bright—both at Sempre and in the world of financial data analytics.
Finally, when asked to describe Sempre in just three words, Jacob smiles and thoughtfully replies, “Cooperative, professional, and happy.” He adds, “It’s a place where everyone supports each other, we work hard, and there’s just a great vibe all around.”
