The public sector comes with challenges such as balancing competing priorities and operating within tight financial constraints. However, I view these challenges as opportunities to innovate and grow. It’s incredibly rewarding to work in roles that make a meaningful impact on society.
Growing up, university wasn’t an option for me due to family finances, so I chose to work and study simultaneously. I took the AAT qualification and then progressed to ACCA, seizing every opportunity to develop my knowledge and expertise. Balancing my studies with work responsibilities taught me discipline and adaptability, which are qualities that have shaped my career. Qualifying with ACCA has opened doors I never thought possible, and was not just a career milestone but a personal one.
What I enjoy about my job is that my work improves outcomes for young people
Over 30 years I have had a varied career. I started in industry and then worked in practice before moving to the public sector. Among other roles in this sector I have been finance director for a multi-academy trust, and a policy specialist at the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), representing our leadership community, and shaping government policy on leadership and management at a national level. My current role allows me to combine my financial expertise with my passion for making a difference in education.
I oversee the key functions that ensure sustainable finances, foster membership growth and deliver customer support. ASCL’s mission is to advocate on behalf of members and to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. We represent 25,000 leaders across schools, trusts and colleges in the UK, championing their needs and influencing national policy. What I enjoy about my job is that my work directly supports educators and improves outcomes for young people. Aligning my professional skills and personal values has always been important to me throughout my career.
I have always wanted to support individuals from socially disadvantaged backgrounds
One of my proudest achievements is authoring The School Business Manager’s Handbook in 2018. It aims to help professionals moving into this field. I’ve also been awarded a fellowship by the Institute of School Business Leadership, and a CEO award for exceptional contribution to the development of the school business management profession.
I am also proud that I was recently selected for ACCA UK’s public sector and not-for-profit sector panel. This has given me an exciting opportunity to advocate for greater inclusion and equality in the profession. I have always wanted to expand my efforts in supporting individuals from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them build careers in finance and accounting.
Outside of work, I’m an avid reader and lifelong book lover. I enjoy exploring both novels and business literature. The Virgin Banker by Jayne-Anne Gadhia, former CEO of Virgin Money, is one of my favourites, offering valuable lessons on sustainable business growth.
