I took the scenic route into accountancy. I first studied veterinary medicine before moving into mathematical physics and then computer programming. It was this role in computing – in the asset management sector – that got me interested in accounting and inspired me to study with ACCA.
I joined the Scottish National Investment Bank in 2021, soon after it launched. It is a development bank operating independently of the Scottish government and using government funds to invest in projects that are a key priority for Scotland. My role involves, with our finance team, delivering valuations for the bank’s Level 3 investments, which are held across a range of asset classes including debt, direct equity and fund investments.
We also work with our investment teams to support the completion and funding of new deals, and oversee the related investment management data systems and reporting. We contribute to the longer term forecasting of the bank’s investment performance for budgeting and returns analysis purposes. As a financial services institution in the public sector, governance and reporting to the public and to government forms an important part of my role.
An ability to grasp new ideas and stay up to date with change is really important
The bank has a particular goal of using its funding to drive market creation in areas that might be under-supported by the commercial sector. To do that, we have to understand the various dynamics and challenges across society, and there are teams that seek out opportunities as to where the bank’s funding can be most effectively applied. We seek to address some of the grand challenges specifically affecting Scotland, including climate change, place-based equality, and the scaling up of innovation and technology.
The single most pressing issue for accountants today is new technology. Having worked in software development in my first professional role, the use of technology has always been a big focus for me. It will be interesting to see how AI supports these core mathematical and accounting processes.
It is good to reflect on how many of these investments will make a positive difference
Key skills for future accountants include the use of technology and being open to ongoing learning. Change is continual and can be gradual or sudden, so an ability to grasp new ideas and stay up to date with change is really important.
What I enjoy most about my work is the variety. You get to learn about the things that inspire the individuals who run the companies in which we invest, and to see and understand their challenges day to day. The bank’s portfolio covers a wide range of sectors, and we take a broad level of technical interest when it comes to monitoring companies – from North Sea oil and gas transition and supply-chain development, to life sciences and pharmaceutical research, to SME housebuilding and supported living. It is good to be able to reflect on how many of these investments will make a positive difference in the world.
Besides music, I enjoy swimming and hillwalking. We have a dalmatian called Sunny who comes with me when we are out locally. My wife and I have also recently joined the local beekeepers’ association. We have two teenage daughters who manage to keep us quite fully occupied. Beyond that, when I get time to relax I enjoy reading and going to the gym.
