Encouraging women into accountancy

Of ACCA’s global membership, 48% are women. As a profession, we’re performing relatively highly in gender diversity. So, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, AB asked four female members to share advice for other women starting out in accountancy.

Wendy Yap FCCA, financial controller, Addooco IT; executive in residence and associate lecturer, Sheffield Hallam University; vice-chair, ACCA Corporate Sector Panel

The highlight of my career so far has been becoming a business mentor at Sheffield Hallam University as part of its Woman in Business Mentoring Scheme. We aim to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses and build their skills, confidence and knowledge. I have had to draw on the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired through the studying for the ACCA qualification and through my finance experience.

To women starting out in the profession, I’d recommend committing to lifelong learning – make your own development a priority. I also suggest seeking out a mentor who can give you counsel and guidance. I’d advise young members to take opportunities when they’re presented to you because that’s how we grow and learn. Finally, take feedback and be prepared to hear about your areas for development.

If I could change one thing that would benefit women in the workplace, it would be to raise the profile of training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to ensure we can all keep up with the new digital economy.

Farah Anwar FCCA, finance manager UK and Ireland, AECOM; chair, ACCA UK Corporate Sector Panel

My career highlight is serving as chair of the ACCA UK Corporate Sector Panel and using this position to influence aspiring finance professionals.

My advice to women starting their accountancy careers would be to focus on what you enjoy the most and develop skills in those areas. This will not only help you succeed, it will also help you find your true life purpose.

One change in the workplace that would benefit women is for organisations to empower more women to use their unique skills in leading with empathy, and to encourage women not be afraid to show vulnerability. Promoting authenticity in the workplace can be pivotal to cultural change and in creating a psychologically safe environment where everyone feels confident to show up as their true self.

Ifat Jhugroo FCCA, director, Sleigh & Story

One of the most rewarding things I have done is to undertake a management buyout at a young age. I was in my 30s when a colleague – now my business partner – and I decided to buy out the practice we worked in. It was a huge challenge, but I relished every moment.

My one piece of advice is to be confident in who you are and your abilities. If you don’t back yourself, who else will do that for you?

As for changes in the workplace, I’ve seen a lot of progress recently – such as more emphasis on gender equality, flexible working and leadership programmes. The pandemic also really helped with this directional change. It is resulting in much-needed improvements to working practices and career opportunities.

Bola Lawal ACCA, accounting professional – technical accounting, Santander

I have had a lot of great moments and achievements in my career so far, but regardless of how amazing those moments have been, being awarded an LTSB (Leadership Through Sport & Business) Apprentice of the Year award and getting my ACCA qualification are still top of my list.

My advice is to believe in yourself. You deserve to be in the spaces you are in and don’t be afraid to take risks (calculated ones).

Looking to the future, I’d really like to see more open discussions and initiatives to address the barriers to women advancing to leadership positions in their career.