How do you balance a high-pressure finance career with the daily chaos of parenting? Just ask Katie, for her it’s all about organisation, resilience, and a strong support system.
As part of our International Women’s Day campaign series, we're shining a spotlight on different women across our Group to showcase the diversity, expertise, and overall brilliance of the women of BGI. First, we have Katie O’Donnell, our Financial Accountant in BGI.
With nearly eleven years in the business, she’s grown alongside the company. Raising a family, and evolving in her career, and here’s how she makes it work.
From Graduate to Finance Leader
After graduating from Cardiff University Business School with a BSc in Accountancy in 2008, Katie began working for a large independent accounting firm as part of their graduate scheme, gaining valuable audit experience whilst working towards her Chartership.
After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, she moved into a different firm, working as an Audit Senior, auditing and producing accounts for large clients an group audits.
After wanting a new challenge, Katie took the leap into industry and joined BGI in March 2014, and she’s never looked back.
Always Evolving, Always Growing
Having worked as part of BGI for nearly eleven years, it’s safe to say that no two days are the same.
The business is constantly evolving, which has allowed Katie to learn and grow professionally.
Katie leads the team, ensures smooth communication, and tackles a wide range of responsibilities. From monthly management accounts to payroll and compliance, she keeps everything running like clockwork.
Deadlines, audits, financial strategy. Katie juggles it all, but before stepping into her professional role each day, she has another important job. Being a Mum.
Working Mum: The Reality
As a working parent, mornings are a whirlwind of packed lunches, school drop-offs, and making sure everyone is where they need to be.
Then it’s time to switch to work mode. To switch from “Mum” to “Katie”.
Despite the challenges that come with juggling parenthood and a successful career, she’s thriving.
The key? A great team, supportive workplace, and a passion for the job.
Biggest Achievements & Future Goals
Professionally, Katie stated that her greatest achievement would be qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, but personally, it would be her two beautiful children.
Looking ahead, she’s focused on growth. To continue to evolve and develop within BGI. To build on her skills, take on new challenges and to progress.
Why a Supportive Workplace Matters
The majority of working parents (93%) feel that having employers that are supportive to parents is important or very important when considering a new tole.
Working parents make up a significant portion of the UK workforce, and for this reason it’s important for employers to acknowledge this and support where possible.
Katie’s journey reflects what makes BGI special. A team that’s driven, a business that evolves, and a workplace that values people.
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