How has your role evolved since you started?

Since starting in Errigal my role and duties have changed over the years. I began working in Accounts Payable, reconciling supplier statements, posting invoices, and liaising with suppliers on queries and discrepancies. I then moved to Accounts Receivable where I gained experience in credit control and issuing timely and accurate sales invoices, as well as ensuring money is received in a timely manner. I now work in Management Accounts and VAT. Management accounts are produced monthly and yearly for all Errigal entities, and VAT returns, both Irish, UK and European are to be submitted monthly, quarterly and bi-annually.

What does a typical day look like for you?

A cup of tea first thing and then a quick scan through my emails. I will respond to emails and create a quick ‘to do’ list for the day, prioritizing tasks and emails to be followed up on. I then get stuck into working on whatever deadlines are nearing that week. Whether it be an Irish, UK or Austrian VAT Return to be compiled, or the monthly management accounts to be completed, I will dive into working on this. I enjoy a walk at lunch if the weather is nice, followed by lunch and a quick catchup with others. I like to tick off tasks as they are completed and work down through the list as the day progresses.

Can you share a fun or memorable moment with your team?

Here in finance we celebrate everything, from birthdays to leaving parties, baby showers to exam results. Everybody’s achievements, successes and ‘big moments’ are recognized and celebrated, with nothing going unmissed. A lovely lunch out, a morning brunch, or a 3pm tea party – the smaller things in life are there to be celebrated. This creates a sense of belonging in our team and an appreciation for one another. We look forward to celebrating everybody’s achievements, big or small.

What do you do to unwind after a busy day?

After work, I often put on a playlist and go for a run, which as well as exercise is a great way to clear my head and escape from the business of life. If I’m not running, I’ll meet a friend for a walk and a catch up in Rossmore Park. I then come home and enjoy sitting down with a cup of tea and a little treat whilst switching off from the rest of the world, forgetting any worries or thoughts I have from that day. This is when I’m at my happiest.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I have recently taken up running and am currently training for my first half-marathon in July. I began with a 5km race and then progressed to a 10km race, and have now challenged myself to take on 21.1km. Trying to stick to a training plan can be difficult given the weather in Ireland does not always coincide, but I try to work around this and train when the weather allows. I try to maintain motivation over the long training period by running with friends and in different scenic locations – this can often distract from long distances (for a short while..) 😊