The Only Way is Up - with Philippa Goodwin - Finance Director
November 5th, 2021
The Only Way Is Up with with Philippa Goodwin – Group Finance Director with Hoburne Holidays.
We are lucky enough to hear about Philippa's career to date, her thoughts on what it takes to progress within Finance and she shares her own business challenges over the past 18 months.
Philippa started her career initially as a Graduate trainee for a software company but moved to Motorola for more opportunities to progress, she stayed there for eight years working in the Telecoms sector working in London, Paris and Cairo. Philippa has also worked in the Insurance, Utilities, Holiday Parks and Property development sectors.
Q1) Clare “In terms of your current role – what is your remit”?
A1) Philippa “I’m the Group Finance Director for the Hoburne Group, our business operations cover holiday parks, golf clubs and property development. The Group is a family owned business and has been around since 1912. My remit includes all aspects of the financial operation of the business and I manage business change/IT. I am also a Non-Executive Director for Poole Harbour Commissioners.
Q2) Clare “What challenges has your business had to face in the past year?
A2) Philippa “The challenges have been numerous and have taken us from one extreme to the other – the challenges of business closure to being extremely busy and dealing with Covid restrictions, "pingdemic", supply issues, rising costs”.
Q3) Clare “What path did you take to become an Accountant? - (Degree/A’ Levels/CIMA/ACCA/ACA)
A3) Philippa “Fairly straightforward – A levels, degree, CIMA plus I have an MBA”.
Q4) Clare “What advice would you give someone embarking on a career in finance?
A4) Philippa “Embrace the opportunities that come your way! As a career it can take you into any sector, you will gain an understanding of many different aspects of a business, it’s varied and interesting, there is never a dull day (contrary to most people’s views of accountants!).
Q5) Clare “What skill set do you think makes a successful Finance Director?
A5) Philippa “Strong leadership skills, energy and drive, tenacity, curiosity, great communication skills (as well as good grasp of the commercials).
Q6) Clare “As Finance Director, what do you enjoy most in your job?”
A6) Philippa “Leading and coaching my teams, driving business change and dealing with all aspects of the business”.
Q7) Clare “When recruiting staff what is more important attitude, qualifications or experience?”
A7) Philippa “It’s important to have a mix, however I always look for a candidate with a positive attitude and willingness to learn above all else”.
Finally, on a lighter note!
Q8) Clare “Is there anything you are not very good at?”
A8) Philippa “I can only play ‘London’s Burning’ on the piano.”
Q9) Clare “Who would you most like to be stuck in a lift with?”
A9) Philippa “Peter Kaye, I love his northern stories and sense of humour!”
Q10) Clare “How do you relax?”
A10) Philippa “Racing around Poole harbour in a RS400 with my husband and spending time with family and friends.”
When I first started my career in recruitment, I had a Female role model, someone who I admired and wanted to be! I've created these articles to help inspire others. I'm delighted to be able to share these articles to those who are maybe looking for inspiration.
Thank you Philippa for sharing your thoughts. What an amazing career to date!
Clare
November 2021