My mum was an accountant, so I guess it was my destiny. If not, it was definitely an influence. Before the fifth year of secondary school I filled in a careers questionnaire, which came back suggesting accountancy or banking. A week’s work experience at a small practice sharpened my appetite before I went on to university and then completed my ACCA Qualification.
Now I work for Ripple Energy, a small team of individuals with decades of experience in the renewable energy and tech sectors. I invested in Ripple at the early seed stage with a view to becoming CFO when budget allowed.
As a startup that has only recently launched to the public, cashflow and investor relations are a key focus. Keeping a close eye on the budget and making sure we know when we need to raise more equity are equally important. At the moment we’re raising investment for our first wind farm.
I have always been a big-picture thinker, so being able to influence strategy is really rewarding
Variety is the best thing about the job. In a startup, there genuinely is no one day like another. There are highs and lows, but I have always been a big-picture thinker, so being able to influence strategy is really rewarding. My goal is to make Ripple a globally recognised brand.
ACCA has been great, and gaining the ACCA Qualification is a huge highlight for me. Having a professional qualification, especially with a Big Four firm, opens a lot of doors and verifies your experience. My wife is also ACCA, so between us we tend to have a good understanding of the latest developments. Reading AB Direct each month is invaluable, of course.
Outside of work, I’m into most sport, though much more watching than playing now. I play a bit of golf and enjoy walks with the family along the coast or in the many parks around Ayr. We’re expecting our second child in October, so I’ll be pretty busy for the next few months!
