ARM, a semiconductor technology company, is a really exciting place to work. The technology that the company develops is in around 98% of devices worldwide. Being part of an organisation that has such a broad impact is genuinely inspiring.
My role is split between two main areas. On one side, I review and approve the financial reporting for the UK entity, which keeps me grounded in the core accounting work I enjoy. On the other side, I focus on process improvement, automation and making the finance function more efficient. That part of the role is particularly exciting because it is about problem-solving and finding new ways to do things better. It is not just numbers; it is real projects that make a difference.
My ACCA journey has not been straightforward. I started the qualification right out of university, but at the same time I was running my own small business teaching cheerleading to children and adults. I had to prioritise the business for a while, putting my studies on the back burner. When I returned to it six years later, I had gained more life experience and found the work far more personally fulfilling. I was no longer doing it for anyone else, such as my parents or a company, but for myself. That mindset has shaped my career ever since; I am driven by purpose rather than obligation.
Staying ahead requires curiosity and imagination
The finance profession is evolving rapidly, and technology is at the centre of that change. Technology forms a large part of what I do. I am always exploring tools and methods, from small improvements to larger projects implementing new systems. AI, process automation and system integration are all part of that. Staying ahead requires curiosity and imagination, thinking about what is possible and how it can improve the way we work.
Ethics have always been central to how I work. I try to apply ethical standards to every decision I make. Working for a Nasdaq-listed company adds another layer of responsibility, with audit and SOX compliance being critical. I regularly ask myself whether decisions align with ethical frameworks and, if there is ever uncertainty, I make sure to seek guidance. It is important to me that my work not only meets professional standards but also feels right in practice.
I would advise anyone starting out in accountancy not to feel pressured to follow a conventional path. Mine has been unconventional, and that has taught me lessons I would not have learned otherwise. What matters is confidence in yourself and the value you can provide. If you work hard, stay curious and focus on delivering meaningful results, people will recognise your contribution. For me, that combination of technical expertise, curiosity and ethical grounding has been the key to building a fulfilling and impactful career.
