Liz dove into the world of finance at 16, starting as a Purchase Ledger Clerk. She even worked with physical ledger books – a relic of a bygone era!

For five years, Liz immersed herself in various roles, from Sales Ledger to Credit Control, gaining invaluable all-around experience.

Life, as it often does, then threw a curveball.

A company relocation led her to a call centre, where she climbed the ladder to Team Manager before welcoming her daughter into the world. While she enjoyed the challenge, the pull of finance was always there. The thought of returning after 12 years, without any formal qualifications, felt daunting.

Rediscovering Her Passion: A Second Chance

Fate intervened when a friend connected Liz with a family-owned group of companies. They welcomed her as a Credit Controller, patiently guiding her back into the world of ledgers and numbers. She felt like she had finally found her place. Then came a new Financial Controller; a bright, ambitious auditor. He became Liz’s mentor, teaching her about management reports, fixed assets, accruals, prepayments, and the intricacies of audits. He instilled in her the importance of ambition and initiative. As the company grew, so did her responsibilities, culminating in her role as Group Transactional Finance Manager, leading her own team. However, a corporate takeover signalled it was time for a new chapter.

Embracing the Future: ICB and Beyond

Leaving the corporate world, Liz enrolled with Training Link to pursue ICB Level 2, 3, and 4 qualifications. Despite her experience, Liz recognised the need to formalise her knowledge and bridge any gaps. Training Link’s flexible approach allowed her to balance work, family, and studies. The comprehensive resources, from textbooks to online support and dedicated tutors, made the seemingly impossible, possible. The structured learning, module tests, and practice mocks solidified her understanding, even when self-doubt crept in.

“The way you learn the modules, then have a test, the practise mocks, was a great way to learn. Even in the times when you think nothing is sinking in, it has because you have done it so many times.”

Starting Level 2 in November 2023, Liz completed Level 3 by September 2024 and received her practice license in October 2024.

Currently, she’s studying Level 4 Self-Assessment unit while working full-time and continuing to build her own bookkeeping business, MGS Bookkeeping.

Her dream? To be fully self-employed and reunite her team.

She’s determined to make this dream a reality, to once again find that sense of belonging and purpose in her work.

You can follow her journey on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mgsbookkeeping and visit her website at www.mgsbookkeeping.co.uk. If you know anyone needing a remote, cloud-based bookkeeper, please don’t hesitate to pass on Liz’s details!