Audit Wales provides assurance to the public that agencies are providing value for money. The responsibility that public sector organisations have to society makes me really proud to work in this area.
The team is small, so you get to experience how the whole finance function works. My role involves acting as deputy to the head of finance, preparing the annual report and accounts, developing the financial systems, assisting on projects and implementing new accounting standards.
I think my greatest achievement is being a great role model for my children
A major challenge we face is the squeeze on public funding, which is impacting our ability to attract and retain employees. Private sector firms are offering better salaries, while organisations like Audit Wales face a tug-of-war between driving costs down to protect the public purse and offering a competitive salary package to attract professionals.
Working full time and studying with two young children was very tough but it was worth it. My son recently said that he was really proud of me, which filled me joy. I think my greatest achievement is being a great role model for my children: someone they respect who inspires them.
I knew that if I wanted to progress in my career then I needed a new experience
I left university with no idea of what career to pursue. I got a job as a receptionist but soon the finance director asked me to be his PA and mentored me. After travelling around the US I got a job as a finance officer in a not-for-profit organisation. Here, I was lucky to find another good mentor and began studying for my ACCA Qualification.
I have stepped out of my comfort zone. I worked for South Wales Police for 11 years, and it was a job I enjoyed. When I qualified with ACCA I knew that if I wanted to progress in my career then I needed a new experience. I deliberated hard over whether to go for my current role; it meant a commute. I was soon talking myself out of applying, but a friend convinced me to go for it.
If I weren’t in finance, I would have liked to have been a writer and travelled more. English was my favourite subject at school, and I have always loved reading books.
My favourite motto is ‘Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.’ My mother quoted this to me when I was younger; I now say it frequently to my sons when I ask them to tidy their rooms.
In my spare time I enjoy strength training and going to my local gym. I love my garden and growing vegetables in my greenhouse. However, my favourite thing is going for long walks up in the mountains of South Wales with my dog, Kobe, as it’s the most beautiful and peaceful place to be.
