Continuing our ‘In conversation with’ series, we invite you to get to know our Financial Controller & HR Manager – Mary Keating.
Originally from Northern Ireland, Mary has over 20 years of accountancy experience having moved to the Island in 1999 to seek out opportunities within the Island’s financial sector. In addition to her role as Financial Controller, Mary also looks after our HR function. Read the full interview to hear about her goals and aspirations for 2022, including more charitable initiatives and how she works out to look after her mental wellbeing.
Q1: What do you do at KHT?
I joined Knox House Trust in November 2020 as their Financial Controller and HR Manager, having spent over 20 years’ working within the financial services and fiduciary sector. More recently, I have also taken on the role of Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer (‘DMLRO’).
Q2: What do you love most about your role?
I love the people that I work with, plus the variety – no two days are ever the same! But I’ve also really come to appreciate the autonomy I have to do my work.
Q3: What has been your greatest achievement in your first year with KHT?
Creating and implementing new processes within the finance department, which have been well received within the business, offering a more streamlined workflow.
I also enjoyed undertaking a mental health course with a local charity, which I found incredibly interesting. The past two years has had a massive impact on people’s mental health, so to gain these new skills that I can then bring into the workplace to assist colleagues who may be struggling has been very rewarding.
Q4: What have you learnt since joining KHT?
Having taken on the DMLRO role, I’ve been able to significantly increase my Compliance knowledge through both study and ‘on the job’ experience.
Learning the joy of giving back has also been a big life lesson! Being able to see first-hand how the team’s support to local charities has directly impacted on the local community has been highly rewarding at both a personal and professional level.
Q5: What are your goals/aspirations for the next 12 months? Personal & Professional.
My competitive side would say to get more home runs in the Children’s Centre 2022 Rounder’s Tournament than our Managing Director, Voirrey – and not end up with an injury! Plus, I’m looking forward to getting involved with more charitable activities.
From a professional perspective, I plan to continue to play a key role in helping to drive the business forward, in addition to mentoring and supporting our team.
Q6: What keeps you busy outside of work?
My family, especially my youngest daughter who has a keen interest in every instrument known to man. I also love spending time in the gym as I find it helps with mental health and keeping me sane!