In a nutshell, what do you do?
I provide technical support to the Information Officers, in regards to Superannuation legislation and our products. I also provide coaching, training and development as an ongoing support.
My role is essentially to provide high-level technical information and to problem solve.
Why did you choose this career?
I worked my way up to this role; it was a natural progression within the company.
What path did you take into it?
I got placed in an entry-level position and then worked my way up the ranks.
What, in your opinion, is the best bit of being a Senior Finance Officer?
My job can be quite challenging and fast-paced. The best part is that no day looks the same, and I’m often working on different projects within the company, as a specialist. I am lucky enough to work for an employee-focussed company, and the people I work with are brilliant and fun.
Every job has its downsides. What do you think are the worst bits?
The best bit about my job can also be the worst. A lot of people depend on me to make quick decisions and it can be constant – and it has to be correct at all times. This can be draining, and often I can get to the end of the day and go ‘what just happened’?!
Is it what you expected when you first started out?
I did not expect to have to know legislation from back to front. I also did not think the role would be so highly technical and full-on. I have been told that my role is the work of 1.5 people…
What do the public least understand – or mistake – about what you do?
The public doesn’t know about my role!
What kind of people tend to do well in this kind of career?
You need to be switched-on and motivated. You also need to be able to effectively time-manage and be able to set boundaries, as you can get overwhelmed otherwise.
Finally, any advice you’d offer to people looking to get into this line of work?
Go to university. Get a degree, majoring in either Finance or Commerce, with a Project Management background.
