I grew up watching Formula One when I was younger. So it’s an honour to work for the Haas F1 Team, which competes in the F1 World Championship, and to be able to contribute in my own way. I love the fact that I get to work in an industry I am so passionate about.
I enjoyed maths at school but was unsure in which direction my career was heading, so I started AAT Level 2 while I considered university options. I haven’t looked back since – I completed AAT and then went straight on to ACCA. The ACCA Qualification has opened so many doors in my career and certainly helped get me into F1.
Technology skills and strategic thinking will really set future accountants apart
I have a varied role which is great – no two days are the same. I try to collaborate with other departments in the business as much as possible. I am responsible for all accounting and financial matters in Europe, including annual statutory reporting, audits, tax compliance, budgets and forecasts. Part of my role is ensuring we are compliant with the F1 Financial Regulations. It’s a great time to be an F1 accountant.
I work as part of a global team now and have travelled for business within Europe. It’s all been great experience; I try to learn from every interaction. The key is to build good relationships – this provides the foundations for everything and really enables great teamwork.
I wear multiple hats in my role, not just the finance hat. I try to put myself in other people’s shoes and consider where there are coming from. This can add real value and prevent any short-sighted finance decisions – never say no. I provide as much support as I can to anyone that needs it within the team.
Technology skills are becoming more important for future accountants, with more and more tasks being automated. It means accountants can be strategic thinkers who interpret data and move away from the ‘bean counter’ stereotype. The combination of technology skills and strategic thinking will really set future accountants apart from those with traditional accounting skills.
I am completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Henley Business School to build out my knowledge to wider business areas. I am due to complete the course in 2022 and hope this helps further my career development. Next step, finance director, then chief financial officer – then who knows?
