Ten years into a dynamic career at PwC, Maria Kinsella reflects on redefining success, embracing change and finding inspiration in mentors and family
Ten years ago, where did you think you would be now?
I was in the second year of my graduate training contract at PwC. At that stage, I didn’t have any specific career goals, but I knew I wanted to:
- become a Chartered Accountant;
- travel;
- continue playing inter-county football while simultaneously progressing my career; and
- mix my skills as a Chartered Accountant with my love of Gaelic games by getting involved in running my local GAA club.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career?
Everyone’s definition of ‘success’ is completely different. One of my biggest challenges was figuring out what ‘success’ looks like for me.
What might sound easy in theory, I found very challenging in reality. It took me a while to be comfortable and accept that my definition of ‘success’ may look very different to that of my friends.
I’ve learned that at different stages of my career, what represents success to me has changed and will constantly change, and that’s OK too!
Also, adjusting to life under COVID-19 restrictions and transitioning to working from home was very difficult. While the slower way of life was a novelty for a short while, I missed my hobbies and being able to see family and friends.
Four years on, I think we all are grateful that one benefit from COVID-19 is that hybrid working is now considered the norm.
What do you wish you had known earlier in life?
I recently celebrated my ten years of service with PwC, and it struck me how quickly the years have flown by.
The role of a Chartered Accountant is evolving. Thus, there is a need to develop and expand your skill set into areas like artificial intelligence, data analytics and environment, social and governance (ESG).
The role of a Chartered Accountant is no longer confined to financial and management accounting, audit and tax.
Where do you see yourself this time next year?
I am constantly challenged in my role as Senior Manager in Assurance at PwC; no two days are ever the same.
I hope to continue working with several great clients and helping them and their businesses navigate our ever-changing world.
Who inspires you, personally and professionally?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have several mentors in PwC and the sporting world who have been instrumental in my development.
On a personal level, my mum has been and continues to be an incredible role model and inspires me greatly.
I would not be where I am today without the love and support of family and great advice from mentors.
How has being a Chartered Accountant changed your life?
Growing up, I didn’t envisage becoming a Chartered Accountant. But I’m very grateful for how things have worked out.
Since gaining my qualification, so many opportunities have come my way.
For example, I completed a short-term secondment in New York City with PwC and got to use my qualifications as a member of the Gaelic Players Association Board of Directors and Audit and Risk Committee.
In recent years, I have appreciated the stability and security being a Chartered Accountant brings to my life. Whether the economy is performing well or poorly, Chartered Accountants will be needed.
If you weren't a Chartered Accountant, what do you think you'd be doing?
PE and Maths teacher or working in the sports industry.
What advice do you have for those who will soon qualify as Chartered Accountants?
Define what ‘success’ is to you. Whether that is to travel, stay in practice, move to industry or perhaps enter academia, spend time thinking about what brings you joy and what you really want to do with your qualification – the opportunities are endless!
Also, when you get there, enjoy no longer having to balance working full-time and studying for exams!
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