Hi, I’m Zaneta and I’m a restructuring and recovery manager at MHA. My route into insolvency was not a traditional one, but it was driven by a need for change, growth, and a desire to use my skills in a new environment. Starting again in my thirties was daunting at times, yet it became one of the best decisions I have made for my career and my wellbeing.
Realising My Potential
"I knew I needed a change and something that allowed me to rebuild my career in a healthier direction."
My Career Journey
Before working in insolvency, I spent seven years in the lettings industry, covering both long term and short term lets. I was a manager overseeing short term lets, landlord accounts and large property redecoration projects. Although I gained valuable experience, the constant pressure took its toll, and I began to feel burned out. I knew I needed a change and something that allowed me to rebuild my career in a healthier direction.
I completed an online bookkeeping course to expand my skills and began applying for new roles. In 2018, I joined Meston Reid and Co, now part of MHA, as a cashier in the Restructuring and Recovery team. I had never heard of insolvency before joining, but I found it fascinating. Starting again at the age of thirty-three felt bold, but I was ready for a completely new challenge, even if it meant beginning at the bottom of the ladder.
I passed the Certificate of Proficiency in Insolvency with merit in 2020 and continued progressing within the team. I sat my JIEB exams last year and am currently awaiting the results which, if successful, will allow me to apply for my insolvency practitioner license in the future. Every step has confirmed I made the right decision in changing career.
I sat my JIEB exams last year and am currently awaiting the results which, if successful, will allow me to apply for my insolvency practitioner license in the future. Every step has confirmed I made the right decision in changing career.
What I Enjoy About My Role
Insolvency is a niche industry that sits somewhere between law and accountancy. No two days are ever the same. It is fast paced, requires an understanding of current legislation, and involves learning about a wide variety of industries. Every company we work with has its own challenges and circumstances and finding the right pathway for each one is incredibly interesting.
For me, the most rewarding part is the people I encounter. Every situation, every business and every individual brings a different attitude or perspective. Navigating those interactions is challenging at times, but also one of the most fascinating aspects of the job.
The Support That Shaped Me
I have been fortunate to work with people who genuinely want to see me succeed. Michael Reid, one of the Partners in the Aberdeen office and an insolvency practitioner, has always encouraged me to push towards my goals. His support throughout my exams and career progression has made a significant difference, and I am grateful for the belief he has shown in me.
The insolvency community in Aberdeen is small, but it is welcoming. Professionals in the area have been supportive from the moment I stepped into the industry, and I am excited to continue building my network. I cannot forget my colleagues in the Aberdeen office either. They create such a positive working environment every day, even if the communal snack area makes it a challenge to avoid extra treats.
Overcoming Challenges
Whenever I face challenges, I try to approach them with the same mindset. I review what went wrong, consider what we can do to fix it and look at how we can avoid it in future. I naturally lean towards a positive outlook which helps me stay focused even when things do not go to plan. That perspective has helped me throughout my career change and continues to support me in the more demanding aspects of insolvency.
Advice I Would Give Anyone Starting Out
Take advantage of the experience around you and never hesitate to ask for advice. People are often more willing to help than you expect. Be open to opportunities when they appear and trust that you have the skills to make the most of them. Even small opportunities can lead to something bigger later.
I hope people see that it is never too late to make a change in life. Starting again can be scary and challenging, but if something is making you unhappy, you have the power to move in a different direction. New beginnings often lead to some of the most rewarding chapters. We rarely regret the things we tried, but we often regret the things we never gave ourselves the chance to do.
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