For the first instalment of our new ‘Then and Now’ series, we put the spotlight on Lisa Scriven (née Curtis), our Finance Manager. Although Lisa has only been with us for two years, she’s already made a huge impression on the business and for our clients, as she explains.

Where were you in your career when you joined Insight Associates?

I joined the Insight team as Finance Manager in February 2023, having worked previously for a number of different manufacturing, property and construction companies.

What was your job title when you started vs. now?

I’ve only been with Insight Associates for two years, so my job title is still the same: Finance Manager.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned at Insight Associates?

Teamwork. It’s an old cliché, but we do focus on teamwork here. Everyone helps everyone. It’s a great place to work.

What has been your biggest challenge?

An important client of ours utilises a huge, fixed asset register spreadsheet which I have been responsible for. It has complex details relating to licenses, contract periods, pricing, exchange rates, and depreciation. It is very intricate and unique to that business. The senior management rely heavily on the data from this register as it affects cashflow expectations. Understanding the nuances of these changes and the importance of keeping them up to date has been challenging but rewarding for me.

What were your career aspirations when you were younger? Have they changed?

When I was little, I wanted to be a hairdresser. But as I got older, the one subject I was really good at was maths. I enjoyed my maths lessons. When I was about five, I loved playing with my abacus. We used them at school to do sums, and I thought it was fun. My grandad gave me an old one to use at home too.

What is your biggest professional highlight of the past year?

One of my biggest highlights was working with a new client who joined us last February. We provided monthly management accounts, and by their year-end meeting, they were able to make strategic investment decisions for the future. Seeing how our work helped them plan ahead made me feel extremely happy, because that’s just what management accounts is all about.

What are you most looking forward to about the year ahead?

I’m really looking forward to becoming a super-user of iplicit. Since I’ve been here, learning all the features of the software has really made my job easier. Becoming a super user is something that I will enjoy.

What has changed for you personally since joining Insight Associates?

My marriage in December last year to Davidlee, which took place in Jamaica. It was one of the best days of my life!