Eight questions with… Sean Murnane

Five years ago, Sean Murnane had just received his Leaving Cert results and was considering his career options. Now, having recently completed his CAP2 exams, he talks to The Bottom Line about his career path, future plans, priorities and inspiration

Five years ago, where did you think you would be now? Have you lived up to your own expectations?

Almost exactly five years ago, I was just getting my Leaving Cert calculated grades results.

At the time, I wasn’t set on college and honestly had no idea what I would be doing the following year—let alone five years on.
I knew I wanted to change direction, but I certainly didn’t imagine I would be where I am now. Looking back, I feel I’ve exceeded my own expectations from that day since.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career?

Without a doubt, exams. I began with Accounting Technicians Ireland while working full-time in a non-accounting role.

Balancing work and exams in the years since has been tough, but the rewards have far outweighed the challenges.

What do you wish you had known earlier in life?

That progress is not always a straight line. It’s easy to compare yourself to others and feel that you are lagging behind.

I chose not to go to college and, at the time, felt I might be missing out.

Looking back now, I’m glad I made the decision to take a different path. It hasn’t held me back. Instead, it has brought me down a route I am proud of.

Where do you see yourself this time next year?

By this time next year, I hope to be sitting the FAE exams. They won’t be easy but completing them would be a significant milestone.

I would also like to be focusing more on my fitness and getting back to competing in cycling races, which has taken a back seat while I have been focusing on work and exams.

Earlier this year, I joined a group of friends to complete a five-day through hike along Scotland’s West Highland Way. It was a challenging but unforgettable experience.
Next year, I hope to take on something similar—possibly in the Dolomites or the Alps.

Who inspires you, personally and professionally?

My grandad, Joe. He was the first in his family to attend college and went on to manage the Fennor Co-operative Society in Gortnahoe, Tipperary, before joining the Dairy Board, where his career took him across the world until his retirement.

His commitment to education and his career inspired me to pursue an accounting qualification, knowing that with hard work it’s achievable.

He was also an international cheese judge—a dream job in its own right!

How do you think being a Chartered Accountant will change the course of your career?

The qualification represents the next step in my career. I have seen first-hand how the qualification has opened doors for colleagues, both at home and abroad.

It is a globally recognised qualification, which appeals to me as I would like to broaden my horizons and possibly work overseas in the future.

On a personal level, it would also mark a huge achievement and the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

If you weren’t training to be a Chartered Accountant, what do you think you would be doing?

I think I would be working outdoors, possibly in the sports sector.

I’ve always been passionate about the outdoors, and I could see myself in a role that combined problem-solving with helping people experience the benefits of sport and nature.

Whether through outdoor education, leading groups or working with a sports organisation, I think I would have enjoyed a path that would have allowed me to bring the same curiosity and focus I now apply to accounting.

What advice do you have for those who are thinking about training as a Chartered Accountant?

It is not without its challenges, so take time to evaluate how you will manage study alongside work and other commitments. The reward is there if you’re willing to put in the effort.

I have yet to meet someone who regrets starting the journey! The experience and knowledge you gain will benefit you throughout your career.

In my own experience, the support and encouragement from colleagues make the process much more manageable.

What’s your favourite

• Book: An Irish Atlantic Rainforest by Eoghan Daltun
• Meal: Anything from my granny Bridget!
• Quote: “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars”
• Favourite hobby: At this time of year, sea swimming!