What is your role at Brunsdon Financial?
I’m a Compliance Technician.
How did you come to your role?
Unexpectedly! Returning home after completing my Drama Studies degree in 2005, my mother who was Admin Manager at the time, secured me some scanning work to tide me over (a job experienced by many children of Brunsdon Financial employees). A vacancy for Commission Administrator came up and I was encouraged to apply for it.
Whilst in this position, I began helping Director Rob Lowe with some minor compliance administration. I then began to do more compliance work, industry exams and left all commission duties around 2010.
What do you like most about your role?
Being part of the team that crosses the I’s and dots the T’s to ensure Brunsdon Financial are offering the best advice and service to our clients.
If you could wave a magic wand to achieve anything you wanted at work, what would it be?
To be on the board of directors. One day I’ll get there!
What advice would you give someone starting out in business now?
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Life is all about learning new things. You might have started down one route but it’s never too late to change direction.
What’s the best piece of business-related advice you were ever given?
Just try your best. If you make a mistake, own it.
Can you tell us a little about Brunsdon Financial’s Heartfelt Foundation that you’re involved with?
Heartfelt is our opportunity to give back to the local community and good causes. We have raised significant amounts through fundraising, volunteering and sponsorship over the years and I have been able to be a part of that since 2011.
This year we’re going all out and trying to raise the most we ever have to celebrate Brunsdon Financial turning 90. Currently we have a football tournament, golf day, vegan bake sale and even a Guinness World Record attempt organised, with more events to be announced throughout the year. On top of this we are trying to secure 90 hours pledged to volunteering as part of our efforts.
Who are your business heroes?
Those who work in the charity industry. Especially those local charities we are currently supporting and I have had the pleasure to meet and get to know. They have all grown from personal tragedy or experience and although they are varied in terms of sector, all strive to support our community the best way they can.
Outside of work, what do you like to do?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family and finding new parks to take my 3-year-old son to. When I can get a babysitter, I enjoy attending various comedy gigs.
How would you like to be remembered, a) by your friends and family and b) by your Brunsdon Financial colleagues?
As I’ve been at Brunsdon Financial 16 years now, they are like family, so for both I’d say dependable, trustworthy and someone you can talk to.
And finally, a bonus Jubilee-related question – what’s your idea of a great Jubilee party?
Eating cake and being surrounded by corgi puppies! On the 4th June it’s actually our own matriarch’s (my mother in law’s) big birthday so we are having a garden party to celebrate, where cake, bunting and balloons are a must!
