The Royal Society of Chemistry is a membership body that helps connect scientists with each other and wider society. We support chemists in all stages of their careers, publish new research and develop professional capabilities. The society also supports teachers to inspire future generations of scientists and speaks to the people making decisions that affect us all.
I started my current role in 2017 after some time out following the death of my father. I completed the ACCA qualification here and have progressed my career within the organisation. That said, my knowledge of the periodic table is still sketchy.
Having lost my mother to cancer, I was keen to be involved in something that could make a difference
We have a diverse range of income streams that fulfil our charitable purpose. The biggest is our publishing activity, which is essential to our finances. However, we also have a healthy investment portfolio, along with other commercial income sources, to ensure financial resilience and a stable future income.
My finance career journey started in 2001 as a purchase ledger clerk at technology company UbiNetics. It was a fast-paced environment, so I had to learn quickly. After four years I wanted a change of scene and a new challenge, so I accepted a role at Ubisense, and this is where I really started to develop as an accountant and began studying for ACCA.
I then joined a company developing scientifically validated tests for the early detection of cancer. Having lost my mother to cancer at an early age, I was keen to be involved in something that could potentially make a difference. The company was in its early stages so I had to set up systems, procedures, accounting policies and insurance policies. I even covered the HR function.
I love to get up early in the summer and ride around the local bridleways before work
What I enjoy most about my current job is the people. So much of your day is spent with your colleagues, so it is important that you have people who you get on with, can bounce ideas off and rely on. Over the years I have been lucky to have forged some incredible friendships.
I always like to look for the positive in a situation. Whatever the problem, you will have already identified what is good and what you can then work towards. If I had law-making powers, I would work to protect ancient woodland. Only 2.4% of the UK remains covered in ancient woodland. I would protect these remaining sites from destruction, and work on creating new woodlands.
Outside of work, my biggest hobby is my horse, Ed. I love to get up early in the morning in the summer and ride around the local bridleways before work, which always gets the day off to a good start. I also enjoy trail running, where I am always joined by my spaniel, Jessie. This year I have signed up for three ultramarathons, which will take me over Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon. I’m a member of the Woodland Trust and a keen gardener.
