Ambitions are defined differently by each and every person we speak to, with career goals and objectives leading the charge on decisions, and how best to navigate these from a business perspective.
In our latest instalment of the “planning your career journey” series in partnership with ICAS, we welcomed a room full of budding CA’s, tuning in to hear from three highly successful finance professionals. Our speakers kindly shared their career journeys to date, focusing on how they have used their chartered accountancy qualifications and how it helped them when choosing their career path thus far.
The evening began with presentations from Stephen Graham, Covid Financial Controller at Valneva; Violina Vasileva, Strategy and Transactions at EY and Rob Horner, CFO at Bella and Duke. A variety of topics were covered, including how best to work with colleagues; how they took the step out of the profession and into industry (or progressed within profession in Violina’s case); as well as discovering that lessons can be taken from every turn, whether good or bad experiences. It was a really enjoyable evening and we are now looking back on the key takeaways and advice given by the experienced speakers.
Take time to make the right decision
For those taking the first step out of practice and into industry, it is a big decision. All three speakers agreed that it is important to take time to make a calculated decision on which job you take – not only which industry, but also the role itself. There will be a lot of options, so it is important to make sure you are happy and excited about what the next step looks like. There is also an abundance of opportunities within the profession, so don’t rule out a move internally to exhaust avenues in your current business.
Don’t be afraid of making mistakes
In some instances, your next career move may not end up quite as you imagine it, but take with it all the positives you can. It will steer you in the right direction of what you really want to achieve, and going slightly off the beaten track can allow you to navigate a new outlook on what being ambitious looks like.
Ask and you will receive
You will already be reporting into someone – use them! Career guidance may be a lot closer than you think and it is important to push your manager on advice and how to achieve your goals; whether that is exposure to new duties, working with new stakeholders or implementing change in a positive way.
If your current company can’t meet your requirements, it may be time to find a company that can. It is important to note that the network of senior people within your organisation can help make introductions for you, and a personal reference or referral can go a long way, allowing you to navigate a very busy market.
One final reflection, which was passed around the room across all attendees, is that any career move is an exciting one; adding to your experience technically and also enabling you to adapt to new surroundings. At Rutherford Cross, we partner with both clients and candidates to ensure you are achieving your career goals, whilst adding value wherever you go.
If you would like to hear about how best to achieve your ambitions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of the Rutherford Cross team.
