Profession: Personal Assistant

Experience: 7 years

Location: London, United Kingdom

 

My Personal Experience: 

My journey into the world of finance wasn’t a planned one. I pursued a degree in economics and stumbled into a finance role during an internship. The analytical challenges and the direct impact on business decisions intrigued me. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills, faced hurdles head-on, and emerged as a seasoned Financial Controller.

The Hard part I feel about this profession as per my experience till now:

Being a Financial Controller might sound prestigious, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main struggles I’ve faced is the constant pressure to ensure accurate financial reporting. Every number, every decimal point matters, and a small mistake can have significant consequences. Moreover, the regulatory landscape is ever-evolving, and staying compliant with the latest laws and regulations requires continuous learning and adaptation.

Balancing the demands of the job with personal life can be tough as well. The role often demands long hours, especially during the financial year-end and audit periods. These demanding hours can sometimes take a toll on personal relationships and work-life balance.

 

Things I find interesting or feel “happy” about this profession are:

Despite the challenges, being a Financial Controller has its rewards. One of the most satisfying aspects is the ability to see the financial health of a company improve due to your efforts. It’s a sense of accomplishment to contribute to strategic financial decisions that can lead to growth and stability.

I also enjoy the analytical nature of the role. Digging into financial data, identifying trends, and providing insights to the management team is intellectually stimulating. It keeps me engaged and helps me sharpen my financial acumen over time.

 

Pros And Cons I feel about this profession:

Pros:

• Strategic Impact: Financial Controllers have a seat at the decision-making table. Our insights and recommendations influence the company’s direction.
• Continuous Learning: The ever-changing financial landscape keeps me on my toes. Continuous learning is not only essential but exciting.
• Job Security: Every company needs financial expertise. This profession offers stability even in uncertain economic times.
• Variety: From budgeting to forecasting, from audits to risk management, the role encompasses diverse responsibilities.

Cons:

• High Pressure: The responsibility of accurate financial reporting can be stressful. A single error can have far-reaching consequences.
• Long Hours: Certain periods demand long hours, disrupting the work-life balance.
• Regulatory Complexity: Staying compliant with complex regulations can be challenging and time-consuming.
• High Expectations: The role is pivotal, and expectations are high. Meeting these expectations consistently can be draining.

 

My suggestions for newcomers in this profession:

For those starting their journey as Financial Controllers, here are some tips based on my experience:

• Master the Basics: Develop a strong foundation in accounting principles. A deep understanding of fundamentals is crucial.
• Stay Updated: The financial landscape evolves rapidly. Stay current with regulatory changes, industry trends, and best practices.
• Attention to Detail: Precision is non-negotiable in finance. A small error can lead to significant financial discrepancies.
• Communication Skills: As a Financial Controller, you’ll need to explain complex financial matters to non-financial stakeholders. Effective communication is key.
• Balance is Vital: Strive for work-life balance. Don’t let the demands of the job overshadow your personal well-being.