Partner at KPMG

What is your background – what made you want to become a Chartered Accountant?

I knew I wanted to become a Chartered Accountant at a relatively young age. I enjoyed maths and business studies at school and was drawn to the variety of opportunities and industries the profession could offer. I was inspired by people around me who demonstrated how accountancy could open doors and lead to senior leadership roles, and that really appealed to me.

Can you give us a run-down of your career to date?

I joined KPMG through an internship while studying Accountancy at Ulster University and very quickly knew it was where I wanted to build my career. Since qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, I’ve progressed through the audit department, working across KPMG offices in Ireland, alongside a short secondment to KPMG UK.

Over time, my role broadened beyond client delivery. I became increasingly involved in the firm’s people agenda, focusing on how we attract top talent from schools and universities and, just as importantly, how we retain and develop that talent. I have also played an active role in internal transformation and change initiatives and have been a strong advocate for embracing new technologies and new ways of working.

I was promoted to Audit Partner in 2024, with responsibility for leading client relationships, delivering quality audits, developing our people, and contributing to the strategic direction of the audit practice alongside our leadership team.

I am also part of the Officer Group of the Ulster Society and have benefited greatly from convening a number of subcommittees over the years, including ACA Young Professionals and Teaching, Education and Careers.

These experiences allowed me to develop strong technical expertise while also gaining leadership and people management experience, working with some of Northern Ireland’s leading businesses.

What do you like about your job?

The variety and the people. I love working with a wide range of local clients across Northern Ireland alongside talented teams, building strong relationships and being part of a profession that is constantly evolving. I also really enjoy mentoring and supporting people as they develop their careers.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?

Balancing competing demands. There is always more that could be done, and learning how to prioritise effectively is an essential — and ongoing — skill.

Do you have any advice for members or students just starting out on their career journey?

Be curious, ask questions, and don’t underestimate the importance of relationships. Strong technical skills matter, but attitude, integrity and how you treat people matter just as much.

What was your best day working as a CA?

There isn’t one single standout day, but promotion to partner was a proud moment. Equally, seeing people I’ve worked with grow in confidence and capability over time is incredibly rewarding. Our firmwide FAE Day is the epitome of celebrating success.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

Something I ordered abroad thinking it was chicken… it definitely wasn’t. I don’t order chicken very often now!

What is your favourite movie?

Legally Blonde — unapologetically. What was your first ever job? A parttime job in the cash office of Primark while I was still at school. It taught me the importance of responsibility, hard work, and the value of being part of a great team.

What time does your day start?

Usually early. If I’ve been travelling for work or busy in the evenings, I like to start the day with my two children — having breakfast together before dropping them to school. It might mean I arrive in the office a little later, but there is no such thing as a lie in with two small children.

Do you ever turn your phone off?

It’s a bad habit, but no. I am trying to be more present when I’m away from work and with my family. There is often an urge to be ‘on’ 24/7, and I’m actively trying to push back against that while respecting the flexibility of how we all work today.

What is the best bit of advice you have received?

Growth happens in the stretch. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors and sponsors throughout my career who helped me understand that capability comes from experience, not before it. Some of the most defining moments in my career came from saying yes to roles and projects even when I didn’t feel 100% ready. With the right support and a strong team around me, those experiences helped me grow far more than waiting until I felt completely prepared.

Do you have any podcast recommendations for readers?

I’m always on the move and really enjoy listening to podcasts. Current favourites include The Rest Is Politics (US), How I Built This, and RedHanded.

What’s your favourite thing to spend money on?

I’m a ‘coffee with a treat’ addict — even with a great coffee machine at home and in the office, I can still be spotted at our local coffee shop multiple times a day.

What do you like to do when you’re away from the office?

Spending time with my family, enjoying a nice meal out and catching up with friends all help me properly switch off and reset.