Upon graduating from university with a degree in Accountancy and Finance, I embarked on my professional career journey at the Peak Group, later acquired and rebranded as AGR. Over the course of seven years, I progressed from an accountant to the position of Financial Controller for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. This tenure not only enriched my technical accounting skills but also honed crucial managerial soft skills. Whilst at AGR, I was managing a range of diverse responsibilities and developed into a well-rounded professional.

After my rewarding experience at AGR, I transitioned through a couple of short-term roles before joining Subsea Technologies Ltd. This proved to be the most challenging yet personally rewarding phase of my career. Joining as a Finance Manager in November 2014 (promoted to CFO a couple of years later), I faced the worst downturn in the oil and gas industry’s history, navigating the company through turbulent times. Despite the emotional rollercoaster and immense pressure, I played a pivotal role in the company's survival, ultimately culminating in a successful exit to a Well Intervention Operator in 2019.

Following my impactful stint at Subsea Technologies, I assumed the role of Financial Controller at a subsea electrical connector manufacturer for just over three years. Despite the company's rapid growth and financial success, I realised it wasn't the right cultural fit for me. Subsequently, I undertook a short-term interim role while actively seeking a position that aligned with my professional development goals.

This journey led me to my current role as the Chief Financial Officer at Zelim, an exciting Edinburgh-based tech startup. Joining in September 2023, I believe that I have found my dream role, in terms of career and personal development, Zelim specialises in innovative technologies in the search and rescue space, particularly the AI detection software where the potential market for these technologies is vast, spanning multiple sectors. Since joining, we've successfully completed a fundraising round and secured our first commercial contract. Every moment at Zelim thus far has been immensely fulfilling. I am excited about the company's future and my role in contributing to its success.

Each day brings a unique set of experiences; the dynamic and positive developments at the company create an environment of constant excitement.

Indeed, I'm one of those sad individuals who aspired to become an accountant.

Given that my dad and uncles are both accountants by trade, I aimed to follow in their footsteps. Surprisingly, it turned out to be the only field where I excelled in school, as I wasn't particularly academic in other subjects. Private education was a waste of money on me 😊.

Yes 100% the role of accountants will undergo substantial transformation.

With the increasing integration of artificial intelligence and automation, routine tasks like data entry may become automated, allowing accountants to focus more on strategic aspects. Proficiency in technology will be paramount, as accountants will need to navigate advanced accounting software and leverage data analytics tools.

I expect the role to shift towards a more advisory capacity, where accountants play a crucial role in guiding strategic decision-making and risk management.

The pandemic-induced shift to remote work highlighted its feasibility and accelerated the widespread acceptance of hybrid working.

Personally, it has provided increased flexibility, allowing for a better work-life balance, such as managing school pick-ups and drop-offs within working hours.

While I acknowledge the benefits of remote work, for me personally I enjoy the mix of office and home. The nuances of communication and collaboration, especially in a team setting, for me are best achieved in person.

The pandemic experience reinforced the importance of a balanced approach, recognising the advantages of remote work while valuing the unique benefits that come with in-person interactions.

Don't leap to another job solely for a bigger salary sometimes, the grass isn't greener on the other side. Take your time to find the right role that aligns with your opportunities and clearly demonstrates a positive culture. I can't stress enough how crucial a great company culture is for your overall job satisfaction.

So, be patient and make sure you're moving for the right reasons, considering both the professional opportunities and the environment you'll be working in.

Don’t chase the coin, instead seek out a company with a strong and compatible culture that fosters your development and provides opportunities for advancement.

I've learned through a couple of experiences in my career that the grass isn't always greener elsewhere, and financial gain doesn't necessarily equate to a better work environment.

It's a concept that can be challenging for an 18-year-old to grasp, as I, too, was initially focused on maximising earnings until the later stages of my career.

I've recently embarked on my journey at Zelim, stepping into an immensely thrilling chapter for the company. During my tenure, I aspire to play a pivotal role in the expected rapid expansion of the organisation in the years ahead. My goals include actively contributing to successful fundraising endeavours, cultivating a culture that draws in top-tier talent, and ultimately steering the company towards a prosperous exit or IPO listing.

Achieving these targets would bring me a profound sense of career contentment.

I struggle to completely disconnect from work, something that I recognise I need to improve on. Nevertheless, my favourite way to unwind is spending quality weekends with my wife and two daughters.

Occasionally, when time allows, I indulge in a game of golf. And, of course, there's nothing like enjoying a glass or two of Vino Tinto to cap off those moments of relaxation.

I am big Slipknot fan which many people don’t know. Last time I saw them in concert was in February 2020 during their last UK tour. I can also recall attending their first UK tour at Glasgow Barrowlands back in 2000.