Polish businesses face a series of challenges in an era of unprecedented volatility and disruption. Inflation, and geopolitical tensions are making companies in Poland look for safer financing and lower cost of debt.
I relish these challenges. In my day-to-day work, I enjoy situations where I am able to help my clients navigate through the unexpected twists of corporate transactions. It’s great to be able to use my own and my team’s experience, knowledge and technical skills to help clients overcome regulatory changes and develop new ways of dealing with issues that arise.
Stepping out of the comfort zone isn’t easy, but the ultimate benefits can be huge. In my career, I’ve been tested by the expectations of clients and changing regulatory, geopolitical and macroeconomic circumstances. In 2015, after a major change in restructuring law in Poland, I decided to focus on not only debt raising but also on restructuring support to lenders and corporates. At that time, I felt I was stepping out of my comfort zone; now, I’m certain it was a good move.
If had the power, I would invite more courtesy into the room
There’s really only one downside to my job. Long hours of working on often difficult transactions can make people anxious and impatient. If had the power, I would invite more courtesy into the room.
As a girl I dreamed of having an artistic career. But my aunt, who had an interest in business, suggested I take advantage of my maths skills and pursue a career in finance. She inspired me, and I went for it.
When I was studying, I had internships at several major banks in Warsaw. But in 2003 I joined the corporate finance department at Ernst & Young (now EY). Having good accounting skills was a must to be relevant in my role working on corporate finance advisory projects and financial modelling, so I studied for the ACCA qualification, which I gained in 2007. I now lead on the capital and debt advisory area in Poland.
I am a licensed fitness instructor and love sport
Although I have been at one firm for almost 20 years, my role, and the scope of the advisory support I provide, has changed greatly. The advantage of staying with a single firm such as EY is that throughout your career you get to know plenty of businesses as well as yourself and the firm. As a result, you can shape your role to market needs, using your personal abilities to the greatest extent.
If I weren’t a corporate finance professional, I’d probably be working in a fitness and health business. I am a licensed fitness instructor and love to take part in sport, especially tennis and swimming. I also work on my own fitness regularly.
