“I am a firm believer in open lines of communication”
Teresa Campbell, Regional Head at AAB, reflects on how open communication, supportive leadership and flexible working can level the playing field allowing true talent to rise to the top
Having really enjoyed maths throughout my school life, I was very fortunate to be able to study both accounting and economics for my A Levels. Alongside some work experience I was doing at the time with a local accountancy practice, studying these subjects gave me my first insight into the role of a Chartered Accountant in supporting local businesses.
My interest in the profession only deepened after I studied accounting at Queen’s University Belfast and went on to train with a mid-tier firm in Belfast. There, I experienced first-hand how Chartered Accountants play a crucial role in helping their clients make informed decisions.
Feeling heard and being valued
I’ve been incredibly fortunate that, in my career, I haven’t faced the kind of obstacles many women have and continue to experience today.
This isn’t something I take for granted. Rather, it makes me more mindful of the need to help create a culture at AAB that continues to build on the momentum we have achieved to date, eliminates inequality and continues to lead by example.
When I think about how we can keep breaking down barriers for future female leaders and build on the progress already made, I can’t help but reflect on my own career and the factors I feel have made a difference.
The most significant for me was taking inspiration while staying true to my own authenticity.
Early in my career, I thought emulation was the only way to get to the top. I now know that it was, in fact, critical for me to be myself while drawing inspiration from the leaders at the table.
Today, I encourage my team to be themselves, while also considering how senior leaders approach tough decisions and the importance of being strategic—look at who does what well and learn from them.
That’s been my personal journey, but just as important is where we are today, and the culture we need to build to turn progress into lasting change.
I am a firm believer in open lines of communication. For leaders at every level, communication isn’t just about sharing updates; it’s about creating space for honest conversations and really listening to people.
When people feel heard, they feel valued. When ambitions are discussed openly, opportunities for growth become clearer. And when challenges are spoken about honestly, solutions come faster.
Good organisational culture also means creating a space where we encourage everyone to apply for more senior roles at every stage of their career.
The way we work has changed significantly in recent years, and one key trend we have seen is the rise in flexible working. It is so important that employers offer flexible working arrangements.
Doing so gives parents and guardians the flexibility they need to avoid sacrificing their career goals and progression while raising a family.
During my time at AAB, I’ve seen lots of examples of women being promoted while on maternity leave and working flexibly to suit family life. Our merit should always triumph over our circumstances.
In our organisation, everyone has a voice and is encouraged to use it. I truly believe our continued success comes down to the culture we have created—open, ambitious and always striving for excellence.
My personal career experience shows what is possible when barriers are removed.
Creating a support system for success
Networking is a great way to make new connections and expand our professional communities.
For many women, these connections can create a support system that offers encouragement, shared experiences and practical advice.
Having a mentor is also invaluable—someone who listens, challenges you and pushes you to reset.
For me, advocacy made all the difference. These advocates believed in me, often more than I believed in myself.
Feargal McCormack, Managing Partner and now AAB Senior Partner and Head of Family Business, was one of those people. He encouraged me to go for opportunities I would never otherwise have considered.
One example was taking on the role of treasurer for a large homeless charity. I was newly qualified and had no voluntary experience, so it felt daunting.
But I leaned in, learned every day, and grew in ways I couldn’t have imagined. That role and subsequent voluntary appointments have really helped build my confidence and shaped so many of the interpersonal skills I now rely on.
Looking back, taking on that first voluntary role was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and it only happened because Feargal gave me the push. That’s why I always tell my team to put themselves forward for opportunities beyond their day job. You’ll gain far more than you give.
Protecting your well-being
While achieving work-life balance as a Chartered Accountant can be challenging at times, I have learned over the years that adopting a positive mindset and enjoying your chosen career are key to job satisfaction.
As a Chartered Accountant working in practice, there will always be busy periods and challenging client deadlines.
Planning deadlines, effective time management, working smarter, not longer—and asking for support when you need it— can all help eliminate burnout and improve your work.
Most importantly, however, we must protect our own well-being and, as leaders in our business, the well-being of every member of our team.
Learning from the next generation
My professional development has really benefited from a combination of formal and informal learning, professional communities and practical experience.
Structured continuing professional development courses and technical updates delivered by Chartered Accountants Ireland help ensure I stay on top of regulatory changes.
Informal learning is equally important, however. Along with networking events, it allows me to learn from others, hear different perspectives and stay connected with what’s happening across our professional and business communities.
I also enjoy engaging with our younger team members here at AAB. I learn a great deal from them because they bring new ways of thinking, a deeper understanding of technology, and an inquisitive mindset.
All of this creates a healthy environment in which proactive and innovative problem-solving can emerge organically.