In the latest edition of our Then and Now feature, we are delighted to showcase Cara Smith, our Senior Finance Manager, who has been a key part of the Insight team since 2011. In this post, Cara reflects on some of her proudest moments and key lessons from 14 years in the team.
- Where were you in your career when you joined Insight Associates?
When I came across Insight Associates, I had completed and passed my Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Qualification. I was looking for the opportunity to use the skills and knowledge I had learned so far and progress to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Insight Associates was the perfect choice for this opportunity.
- What was your job title when you started vs. now?
I started out as Finance Assistant in 2011. Now, I am Senior Finance Manager. - What is the biggest thing you’ve learned at Insight Associates?
Every day is different! To provide the best service, we need to always be dedicated to each of our clients and I have found that good communication and relationships are key to that. At Insight, we are all constantly learning and developing daily without even realising it’s happening. - What has been your biggest challenge?
I have changed a lot since I first started at Insight Associates. I used to be more reserved and didn’t believe in myself. Now, I am a lot more confident and trust my abilities, which is definitely due to working at Insight and being surrounded by people who believe in me. - What were your career aspirations when you were younger? Have they changed?
Accountancy was always in my mind since Year 10 when I chose to complete my work experience within an accountancy firm. I don’t know how it came about that that’s what I wanted to do – it just did! From there, things progressed to me attending college to complete a BTEC Diploma in Business. University was never an interest to me: I just wanted to go straight into work, so I could gain the experience as I went along, as well as studying for my qualification at the same time. - What is your biggest professional highlight of the past year?
I think taking on new clients is always an achievement. Bringing on someone new involves being able to change the way they work and provide meaningful information for them to make business decisions. The fact they are appreciative of the dedication you have put in to is always rewarding. - What are you most looking forward to about the year ahead?
In the year ahead, I am looking forward to learning more about iplicit, especially its additional functionality. This will be a benefit both to our clients and our internal team. I am always wanting to expand my knowledge in the world of accounting! - What has changed for you personally since joining Insight Associates?
A lot has changed since I joined Insight 14 years ago. I moved into my first home, then got married in 2018. We have since upgraded to a bigger house (my husband’s childhood home), then we had our daughter in 2021. She has now started school after turning 4 this year!
