Q: Amy, tell us a little about your career before joining Mactaggart & Mickel.

I started my career in audit, where I spent six or seven years studying, sitting exams and working as an auditor. It was definitely challenging and sometimes repetitive, but it gave me a really strong grounding in accounting and helped me understand the detail behind the numbers and how businesses operate.

After that, I moved into industry and spent a couple of years in manufacturing. I joined as a Finance Manager and was promoted to Financial Controller within my first year. It was my first opportunity to be part of a leadership team and take a more commercial view of the business, which I really enjoyed.

Q: What did you enjoy most about that role?

The company operated in the semiconductor industry, which was quite niche but fascinating. Most of what we produced was exported, so I worked with colleagues and customers across the world, including China, Japan, India and Germany.

I loved learning how different cultures approach work and communication. It was also rewarding to be part of a company that was still manufacturing in the UK and doing it successfully. Some of our customers included organisations such as NASA, Harvard and Princeton, which was incredible to be involved with.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role at Mactaggart & Mickel?

The variety. No two days are the same and I enjoy working closely with teams across the business.

I like being involved in decision-making and helping shape outcomes rather than simply reporting on them. It's also exciting to be part of a business with such a strong heritage while remaining focused on the future.

Q: What's the best piece of career advice you've received?

For me, it's about genuinely enjoying what you do.

I love working with numbers and solving problems, and that makes a huge difference day to day. If you enjoy your work, it's much easier to stay motivated and perform at your best.

Q: If you hadn't gone into finance, what would you be doing?

Something music-related.

I've always loved music and going to gigs. I play drums, piano and guitar, and I used to play the oboe as well. I wouldn't say I'm amazing at any of them, but I really enjoy playing.

Q: What's been your favourite gig?

That's a difficult one!

Billie Eilish at the Hydro was brilliant. Another standout was seeing Carole King perform Tapestry in Hyde Park. It's one of my favourite albums, so that was a really special experience.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Flying, definitely.

I love travelling and exploring new places and it would save a lot of time and money. I'd probably use it for holidays much more than commuting!

Q: Finally, what's something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Probably that although I'm very detail-focused at work, I'm also very social.

I love dancing, going out and spending time with friends, which isn't always what people expect from someone working in finance.