I am currently working as a consultant to public and government bodies, helping them address their financial and non-financial challenges. I aim to support organisations with their long-term strategic initiatives, help them develop sustainable alternatives, and advise on how best to manage their resources.
I was exposed to the public sector while working at Capita, the outsourcing and professional services company that works closely with public sector organisations. An opportunity came up to work on an outsourced public sector contract.
Accountants need to adapt and upskill to address developments in AI
The public sector is facing several significant challenges. These include the pressure on funding and delivering more for less; political uncertainty, including a potential change in government after the general election – this is already creating delays in decision making; and a shortage of skillsets in certain areas – this is driving people to outsource services in the short term, despite the costs, and forcing them to invest in training, managing and retaining the existing workforce in the long term.
The issues are in fact quite similar across the wider profession. In addition to the above, accountants more broadly need to adapt and upskill to address developments in AI. Despite the perceived threats from the technology, we should bear in mind that we can add significant value by providing insights and interpretations that can build client relationships, and offer a personal touch that is difficult to replace with software.
Try to develop leadership, management, communication and other soft skills
My advice to those starting out in the profession is to try and get exposure to different areas of accounting and to different industries that interest you. At the same time, it’s also important to think about how best to develop leadership, management, communication and other soft skills that you might need for senior-level positions.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, keeping fit and spending time with family and friends. I am also involved in various professional and community roles, including as a co-opted governor for a local school, careers and enterprise adviser and mentor, and working with ACCA as a public sector panel member.
