Bishop Fleming Audit Partner and Head of Education Pam, shares how she started a career in accounting and what challenges she’s had to face as a working parent. Here’s her story…
Can you share with us how your career journey began and what led you to become an accountant?
My career journey began with a suggestion from my older sister that I would make a good accountant. She had started a training contract but didn’t enjoy it at all. Since we are not that alike she recommended that I give it a try. Taking her advice, I decided to pursue a career in accounting.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while balancing work and family life?
As my career progressed, and my family arrived, I had to juggle many responsibilities. My days were structured like a military operation, as I balanced being a mother, having a full-time job, and studying for tax exams too. There was not much time for my own hobbies, although I managed to cope with day to day commitments with the help of my husband and parents.
I fully understand why so many women decided not to combine working with having a family back when I did. It was not an easy decision, but one that was basically driven by financial need. Although the workplace has changed a lot in the last 30 years, there are still challenges for parents trying to balance work and home life, particularly when there are children involved.
I think the reason I survived is because I’m a positive and resilient person, both personality traits that I think are essential in the workplace, especially for women.
Why do you feel improving the representation of women at senior levels in the workplace is important, and what steps have you taken to promote it?
This is a passion of mine as I have witnessed first-hand the fantastic impact women can have in the workplace. They often bring a very different perspective to decision making which is absolutely essential if the workplace is going to be fair where all employees are able to be the best that they can.
As a leader, it is difficult to put yourself in the shoes of someone else who has very different challenges, needs and desires. I believe having a diverse senior team who have first hand experience is essential. This helps ensure the senior team can relate to the whole workforce, with no groups of staff being overlooked.
What's been the proudest moment in your career journey so far?
The proudest moments are when I receive recognition for the work I have done. Most recently, this was running a very successful client conference (obviously with the support of our marketing team!). In the past there are other things that I am proud of such as passing my exams, achieving promotion to equity partner and leading a successful academy team.
There are too many other moments that I am proud of to list them all, but I would like to include mentoring many colleagues over the years as a personal achievement – it gives me so much satisfaction to see a colleague achieving their full potential and to know that I have helped them on their journey.
What advice would you offer to other working parents facing similar challenges with work-life balance?
As a working parent, there’s always going to be challenges with juggling work and home life, particularly when there are children involved. Fortunately, the workplace is generally a much more understanding place than it was 30 years ago.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or need support, I encourage you to reach out to colleagues who you know will understand your personal circumstances and will be able to listen and support you. I do genuinely believe the saying that a problem shared is a problem halved.
You may also have mental health first aiders in your firm, and this can also be an excellent resource.