Eight questions with… Claire Doyle

Claire Doyle, Associate Manager of Global Tax at PTC Therapeutics, knows that you don’t have to have it all figured out early in your career, but she does recommend you seize every opportunity available to you to discover what you want  

Five years ago, where did you think you would be now? Have you lived up to your own expectations?

Five years ago, I was in the middle of studying for my FAE exams. The aim was to pass the FAEs on first attempt and go to New Zealand on an epic post-FAE holiday. 

Thankfully, I achieved both and made some unforgettable memories that will last a 
lifetime. 

Growing up with siblings who worked and travelled abroad, I had a strong desire to follow in their footsteps. Originally, I was heading to America, but the plans fell through. So, instead, I decided to book a last-minute flight to Sydney and go solo travelling along the east coast of Australia, which was unbelievable. 

I am fortunate that my current role provides me with great opportunities to collaborate with global employees and travel.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career?

Coming back from the setback of not going to America was extremely challenging – I was really hard on myself and saw it as a failure instead of a setback. In doing so, I had completely overlooked the fact that my long-term goal was to actually travel the east coast of Australia. 

What do you wish you had known earlier in life?

There is a lot of pressure on young people to have their life and career path figured out by 21, which is totally unrealistic! People will change jobs, careers and courses all throughout their life – you don’t need to have it all figured out at such a young age.

Seize every opportunity that excites you and comes your way – what harm will it do? You never know what it will lead to!
 

Where do you see yourself this time next year?

I would like to continue to support the growth of PTC Therapeutics globally. Aside from numerous finance-related projects that are ongoing, I’m a leader within our Early Careers Professionals and Women’s International Network. I also run a series of walking and running challenges internally to support local charities.

I am a member of the FinBiz2030 Irish taskforce, as well, and we have some exciting plans and ideas for next year – watch this space!

Who inspires you, personally and professionally?

Personally, it would have to be my uncle Martin who passed away before his time. Despite facing many health battles, he always looked out for others. To face your own battles and always think of others is simply inspirational.

Professionally, it would have to be an old mentor and good friend, Emma-Louise Sweeney. Over the years she has been a great sounding board and always reminded me that, regardless of the situation, be comfortable being uncomfortable.

How has being a Chartered Accountant changed your life?

Being a Chartered Accountant has given me so many opportunities and experiences that I’m incredibly grateful for. I’m now part of a network of over 30,000 members across the island of Ireland and abroad. It provides you with skills you can take with you wherever you go and can be utilised across many different industries.

Surprisingly, reminiscing about the training contract days, lectures and exams still happens years on. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the UK Prime Minister, David Cameron, resigning from his post because of the Brexit referendum result right when I was about to sit my final CAP2 exam in Belfast.

If you weren’t a Chartered Accountant, what do you think you’d be doing?

I would follow in my mum’s footsteps and be a teacher. My mum always wanted me to be a teacher – I wouldn’t rule out doing some lecturing in the future.

What advice do you have for those who will soon qualify as Chartered Accountants?

Take your time to figure out your next move. Don’t jump at the first offer to move or stay, understand what interests you and the industry in which you would like to work.