My favourite toys from childhood were a classic calculator and an adding machine which had paper rolls. At school I discovered what computers can do and how a spreadsheet works, so following my mother’s path into accountancy was a natural choice for me.
I started my career in Bucharest with Deloitte, while also spending the evenings at university to obtain my master’s degree in financial management. After several years I moved to Vienna as I had an opportunity with PwC. However, I didn’t know the language and starting a life in a new country had many challenges. I am currently a manager with PwC Austria, following the dream that I had after obtaining my bachelor’s degree.
My favourite toys were a classic calculator and an adding machine which had paper rolls
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I decided to move back to Vienna after a career break back in Bucharest. This was my greatest challenge, as I was a single mother working in audit and all by myself.
The main challenge now in Austria, and all over the world, is related to AI. It is difficult to find qualified workers who are keeping up with the rapid development of the technology while still keeping their professional scepticism. People also face difficulties deciding when to use AI for efficiency reasons and when to question the results. I believe we will see significant changes in how businesses are managed and with the future requirements needed from their staff.
My biggest professional achievement came when I started studying for ACCA while working as an audit associate. My course allowed me to connect with people from the network and developed my skills in accounting, while qualifying helped me get promoted. ACCA’s many resources continue to keep me up to date.
I like guiding my team members in solving matters that they are finding challenging
If I had law-making powers, I would simplify administrative procedures and reduce bureaucracy in public services. Having dealt with this situation myself, I believe laws should focus on citizens and be clearer. Public institutions should cooperate and exchange information with each other, allowing families to focus on what matters instead of paperwork.
What I enjoy most about my job is working with a wide variety of people and learning about different industries and businesses. I also like guiding my team members in solving matters that they are finding challenging. Working in an international environment gives me a great opportunity to discover more about different cultures and work styles, while also developing as a team manager. Another great advantage is the flexibility I have, which allows me to have a good work-life balance.
My favourite quote: ‘Life is difficult, but you are loved.’ I discovered it recently, while reading The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy to my children. The message in this impressive book is deep and very meaningful for both children and adults.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would have probably pursued a career in design. Since childhood I have enjoyed personalising my clothes and I plan to start working on this as a hobby in the future.
When I am not at work I am focused on raising my two children, who are two and four years old. I want to provide them with the best childhood in Austria, the nation that welcomed me nine years ago and became home for my children. We also enjoy the natural world, going on hikes and long walks around parks.
