In the latest instalment of our Then and Now feature, we are delighted to introduce Shirley Hoy, our Associate Director of Development and Support. Shirley has been an integral part of Insight’s journey since March 2003. But how did she get to where she is today? Read on to find out!
- Where were you in your career when you joined Insight Associates?
Before Insight seems an absolute lifetime ago now! I started my career in the electronics industry before moving into pharmaceuticals. A brief stint with a communications business that ran into financial difficulty led me to Insight…if only I had known about Insight’s business recovery model at that time! - What was your job title when you started vs. now?
I started as a Practice Secretary and I’m now an Associate Director. It was all very different back then. There was Garry, Sheila, Claire, Glenn and myself and we occupied just one of our buildings. I recall that on my second day I was alone in the office as the team were all out visiting clients! - What is the biggest thing you’ve learned at Insight Associates?
How ‘planning’ and great financial management is integral to every aspect of a healthy business. - What has been your biggest challenge?
Back in the day, we did a lot more distressed business turnaround work, which comes with its own set of complications. It is very much ‘all hands to the deck’ at first. There’s a lot of ‘noise’, fielding calls, settling systems down and just calming the seas. It’s very labour intensive and can be a highly stressful environment. Now, we often start working with a business before they reach that distressed level. We still work with distressed businesses but are very aware of how many clients we can sensibly onboard at any given time. - What were your career aspirations when you were younger? Have they changed?
I’m one of 5 children and my Mum was a stay-at-home Mum, because that’s how things were back then, but I think she would have liked a career, and she definitely wanted one for me. I recall from a very early age her telling me to have a career and when I was little I always said I wanted to work in a board room. I had no idea what I would do, but I wanted to work in a board room. So, I guess in some ways that came true! - What is your biggest professional highlight of the past year?
I know it sounds corny but each time we onboard a new client it’s a highlight! - What are you most looking forward to about the year ahead?
We’re always forward thinking here at Insight both on behalf of our clients, and for ourselves. We’ve got some exciting work in the pipeline relating to the accounting software we use (iplicit). - What has changed for you personally since joining Insight Associates?
Gosh, where to start? My wonderful stepsons Richard and Matthew have grown up, moved away, married and have families of their own, so I now have 5 amazing grandchildren (Rachel, Zachary, Edison, Lucas and Jessica). I’ve done a lot of travelling, including trips to India and Japan in recent years. I’ve also learned to ride a motorbike, dance the Lindy Hop and Charlston, and joined a rock choir with my husband Philip. I’ve recorded a few songs at the world famous Abbey Road Studios, and this year I’m performing at the Edinburgh Fringe.
I think it’s important to continue to learn and grow and be open to trying new things, grasp life with both hands!
