I took on lots of short-term contracting roles so that I could quickly build up my experience, before landing a brilliant position at BP. There, I was able to work in several different finance functions and even be part of the trading floor.

After this, I moved to a role at the University of Westminster. The organisation was going through a restructure, so I had the opportunity to train a whole new team, implement new processes and really work with the University to ensure maximum efficiency.

That led me to Girlguiding, where I worked throughout the pandemic. This was a unique challenge – one I don’t think I’ll ever experience again – so I’m very appreciative of my time there.

Now I’m in a wonderful new role at NEST, working in the financial services sector. I love that my job allows me to work in all sorts of different industries.

How has the industry changed since you first started out? Are these changes for the better?

This is a difficult one, because although I’ve always worked in finance, I’ve changed sectors often! I think a change I would like to see would be better communication between different industries. One finance department might have worked out how to do something really efficiently and then that catches on in their sector, but it can take a long time for that information to be shared externally. I’d like to see more ways to shout about the impact we have and to share best practice.

The changes to working practices have been brilliant and were much needed. Pre-pandemic finance professionals were working long hours and always in the office but now we have more balance. There’s been a huge change in mindset when it comes to remote working and I think that makes the industry more attractive, plus from a financial mindset it saves on overheads. It’s a win-win!

What changes/improvements do you feel finance departments need to implement to drive further change and promote greater inclusivity?

I think we really need to start considering what motivates people, and the passion they have. When I first moved from Sri Lanka it was much more difficult, and there were definitely people who assumed I wasn’t as good as them or couldn’t deliver. Things are better now and companies do a lot to ensure fair hiring processes and equal opportunities, but I still think we need to be more open-minded.

What makes someone excellent at their job is the passion they have for that role. So, what if someone doesn’t have the exact experience you are looking for? They may have the potential and interest to succeed. Perhaps they can bring a different perspective to the table and if they are motivated, they’ll quickly learn what they need to know. This also means they are being given a potentially life changing opportunity, so it’s important to look out for the “attitude” of candidates.

What advice would you give to individuals who are starting out in finance now?

I would tell them to persevere. It can be so difficult when you’re trying to find the right role, but things will click into place if you keep trying. If this is really what you want and what you are passionate about, you owe it to yourself not to give up.

Additionally, I’d remind them to always keep up to date with skills and experiences. Don’t become obsolete; always look out for what’s coming up and impacting your industry.

Finally, I would say to do what it is you love! If you are passionate about your work, you will be better at it and you’ll get much more satisfaction from it. Don’t go into finance for the money, or because it’s a sensible choice – do it because it’s a rewarding career!