Ginny Santer - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Ginny Santer, Director of Monetaire Accountants.

1. How did you get to where you are today?

I did a business admin degree and then, after doing an admin job for a couple of years, decided that the bit that I really enjoyed was the finance.  I joined an accountancy firm on a training contract and stayed there until about 18 months after I qualified.  I have worked in practice, not for profit and industry.  I joined the firm that I now run knowing that it was going to be a potential outcome if things went well.  I’ve been here just over 11 years and running it for 10.

2. What would you tell your younger self?

Failing your A levels is not the end of the world.  There are lots of different ways to get to where you want to go – and where you thought you wanted to go at 18 was not even the case at 19!  You are more capable than you will ever believe you are and you should have more confidence in yourself.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Don’t be discouraged if the route that you think you are going to take doesn’t work out.  There are lots of different ways to get to most places.  Being in business can feel really isolated so keep time for your family and friends because there will be times when you really need them.  It is ok to admit that you don’t know everything about running your business.  Most people don’t go in to it because they’re great at business – they go in to it because they have a passion.  Join networks and talk to others in the same boat.

www.monetaire.org.uk

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.