Finding my balance through non-negotiables
Meet Colleen, a Partner in our Asset and Wealth Management Audit team. Colleen shares her highlights of a career she describes as “unexpected, challenging and exciting” and her experiences of balancing a career with being a parent.
Tell us about your career journey at PwC so far?
As a teenager I was preparing for a career in social work before I made the decision to apply for PwC. I didn’t foresee a career in professional services when I was growing up, but over 22 years later, it’s been one of my greatest achievements. I joined PwC in 1999 on a graduate scheme - I’ve stayed because of the variety of work and diverse mix of people I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside.
Working as a financial statement auditor, I lead corporate and regulatory audits of local, global and boutique investment managers, as well as authorised funds and investment trust audits. I’m proud to work in Audit as it plays a crucial role in underpinning confidence and trust in business and the capital markets. In 2019 I became the lead of PwC’s Client Asset Practice nationally and in this role I lead a number of important projects to ensure a wide range of clients’ assets are safeguarded.
I’ve taken on other commitments that matter to me and using an anonymous donor, I’ve had two daughters whilst balancing my role at PwC. It’s been challenging, but I really enjoy how different my two worlds are and it’s a great reminder of how rich life can be. The ability to work flexibly has been helpful and there’s no pressure to explain or justify your situation. For example, recently one of my daughters was unwell and I had to work from home whilst I cared for her. No one questioned this decision or held the perception I wasn’t working, and even when my daughter didn’t want to leave my side, having her visible in meetings with my team was a non-issue. It was nicely acknowledged and then we moved on - small things like that have been amazing.
Since the cultural change from the pandemic and the introduction of The Deal, Empowered Flexibility is now role modelled across the firm. As part of this, my non-negotiable is starting and ending the day with my children and I have this blocked out in my diary. Of course, this does sometimes have to be flexed, but I find it useful to set this expectation. I want to be a present parent and this is a boundary I want to set.
What moment in your career are you most proud of?
Every promotion has been fantastic, but becoming a Partner was an extremely proud moment for me. Growing up, I didn’t know anyone in a Partner role and I never expected to achieve this. It was only when I became a Director I thought this could be a reality for me and it was an amazing feeling when it happened.
I’m also really proud of everything I achieve on a daily basis - no matter how large or small the task. When I take a step back and reflect on all my commitments, I would have never thought I could do it all. I’ve been told throughout my life that I couldn’t have a successful career and be a good parent at the same time. To be able to demonstrate that you can, and I can, is amazing. Whilst I’m extremely proud of myself, it’s important to acknowledge that it is still tough and there are definitely days that are harder than others. Since having my second daughter, the step up to caring for two children has been hard, but it’s also always been rewarding.
Lastly, what’s the best piece of advice you would give?
Having the right support around me has been fundamental in my career. I’d always tell people to ask for help when you need it. It’s rare for someone to say no and asking for support is never a sign of weakness or failure.
I’d encourage others to think about what support and impact you could have on others too. A few years ago I set up a Parents and Carers Network in Asset Wealth and Management. As part of this, we have a chat group, where we can get to know each other and provide support. Parents and carers can often be time-poor, but the communication on the chat has been fantastic. We share practical questions and advice, but often the chat is filled with human and funny stories about life as a parent. It’s been a great way to feel connected.
Have you been inspired by Colleen’s story? Find out more about our career opportunities in Audit.
Find out more about our support for Maternity and Parental Leave.
