Please can you give us an overview of your career.
I started work in the financial industry in 1991 (having been at home looking after family) and started out as a secretary for the Group Legal Director at an IOM CSP. When he left, I became the Chairman’s secretary for a couple of years following which I asked to work as a company and trust administrator as the work looked interesting. I discovered that that I loved the work which played to my strengths and suited my constant organisational (some might say pedantic) nature! A few years later whilst working at KPMG I decided to undertake my professional ICSA exams to underpin my experience. As I had no degree, I had to take 17 exams in total which I did over the next four years. I have been very lucky to work with some great people and spent the last 15 years at IQE where I have been able to work with companies which range from those owned by individuals and families to large corporates listed on AIM and Main Market. I have acted as Company Secretary for many of the listed companies which has been both interesting and challenging in equal measure. Following the recent sale of IQE Limited to Boston I am enjoying the vibrancy of a larger office and look forward to lots of new challenges as we integrate the two businesses.
Where is the most interesting place you have travelled to for work and why?
I have travelled to India a number of times for work which is probably the most interesting place as it is so different to anywhere else. I loved the vibrancy of all the colours of the saris, the delicious food, the smells of spices and exotic flowers, the friendly people, the beauty of the stunning buildings and the elaborate temples and places of worship. My favourite is the Lotus Temple in Delhi which is shaped like the lotus flower and made of white marble, surrounded by clear blue water. It is so serene and peaceful and a cool oasis in a busy and crowded city.
What’s the one gadget you couldn’t live without?
So many – I love kitchen gadgets as cooking is one of my passions but my favourite is the simplest being a rubber scraper! I also love my watch which I use for walking and running so I can compare my distances, inclines and speeds!
What’s the best thing about your job?
The variety of the work – I am very easily bored and the constant changes to legislation, technology, and activities of the companies we look after keep me challenged and interested. I also enjoy the opportunity to meet new people and travel.
What was the last TV series you watched?
I have just binge watched the Queen’s Gambit, and The Investigation (the murder of a woman in a submarine which took place in Copenhagen where one of my sons lives) both of which I really enjoyed.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you?
Hmm – I lived in Mexico for a year when I was in my early 20s as my father was working there on secondment. I learnt Spanish and in the last few months taught English part time in a private school. It was a fantastic year, great weather, the friendliest of people who love to party, the most amazing food and so many interesting places to visit. Oh and a great great great (not sure how many greats) uncle who was prime minister – Campbell Bannerman whose last words were “this is not the end of me” – I love that!
What’s your motto or personal mantra?
Never ever ever ever ever give up (I think Churchill was accredited with that one?) and do whatever makes you happy. Life is too short to waste doing things that make you miserable.
What are you most proud of?
Without doubt my five amazing (adult) children – they never cease to amaze me with their creative and resourceful natures, their love of life and ability to make me laugh. They are all so very different but get on so well together I could not be more proud.