I didn’t follow a single, linear path into accountancy, and I think that that’s been one of the strengths of my career. I studied overseas early on, which gave me a broader perspective on business and culture, and I’ve worked in several different industries including FMCG, media, publishing, and more recently, oil and gas.

Along the way I’ve also had the opportunity to work overseas, which really sharpened my commercial awareness and adaptability. Each role and sector taught me something different — whether that was pace, creativity, operational discipline or managing complexity — and all of those experiences have shaped how I approach my role today as a Finance Director.

What I enjoy most is the ability to influence decisions and help shape the direction of the business. Finance can’t be and shouldn’t be just about the numbers — it’s about understanding what sits behind them and using that insight and knowledge to act as a foundation to support better outcomes.

I also really enjoy working with people. Developing teams, mentoring others, and helping colleagues see finance as a partner rather than a preventative barrier is something I find genuinely rewarding.

No, not at all — becoming an accountant wasn’t a lifelong ambition. Like many people, I didn’t fully understand what a career in finance could offer when I was younger. I was more interested in the broader world of business and opportunities to work internationally.

I studied European Business with Spanish at University as I wanted to have a broad approach as possible to a wide variety of areas – such as marketing, law and politics, amongst others.

Accountancy became appealing once I realised it could be a gateway to many different roles, industries and experiences, rather than a narrow or purely technical career. Like anything in this world, it is what you make of it and the reward is measurable against the effort that you put into it.

Absolutely. The technical foundations will always be important, but automation and data analytics are changing how much time accountants spend on traditional tasks.

The future accountant will be more commercially focused, more comfortable with technology, and more involved in strategy and decision-making. Communication skills, judgement and the ability to interpret data will matter just as much as technical knowledge.

Yes, it has. It showed that flexibility and trust are not only possible but often lead to better outcomes. It also reinforced the importance of wellbeing, balance and being mindful that everyone’s circumstances are different.

From a leadership perspective, it changed how I think about engagement, communication and supporting teams — particularly when you can’t rely on being in the same physical space.

Be open to opportunities that might not look like the obvious next step. Moving industries, trying a different type of role, or working overseas can feel risky, but those experiences often accelerate growth.

Also, think beyond job titles. Ask yourself what you want to learn next and what kind of environment you’ll thrive in. It is common sense, but it is worthwhile emphasizing that the culture and the quality of the people that you work with on a daily basis will both significantly contribute to your professional achievements but also your level of personal happiness.

I’d say: don’t worry about having everything mapped out. Careers are rarely, if ever straight lines. There will be numerous bumps and obstacles in the road that will require re-setting and reflection, however, this should always be regarded as a positive and never a negative.

I’d also say take opportunities to work and study abroad if you can. Embracing and immersing yourself in different cultures and getting to know people with different backgrounds and interest is hugely important.

The confidence and perspective you gain from that stays with you for life.

I want to continue adding value at a strategic level while also supporting and developing the next generation of finance professionals. Helping others see the breadth of opportunity within accountancy is something I care about more now than earlier in my career.

Personally, I’m keen to travel more which is something that I am hoping to do in 2026.

I value time with family and friends, and I make a conscious effort to switch off when I can. I also enjoy staying active and getting outdoors, which helps keep some balance when work is busy.

I have always found that running and going to the gym, and indeed any activity produces significant mental health benefits and reduces overall stress.

Having interests outside of work is important — it gives perspective and helps you come back to work with more energy and clarity.

I am fluent in British Sign Language (BSL) having grown up with Deaf parents.