What better way to introduce the co-founders for Halo Training Solutions Ltd in more detail than a short interview with each in blog form!
First up, we have Hayley in the hot seat.
Hayley is the joint founder of Halo alongside Flo, so let’s find out a bit more.
What are your qualifications and job history?
I am a qualified accountant with both AAT and ACCA holding a fellow membership with both.
I started as an apprentice in an accountancy practise in a general business role, and then later specialised in personal tax, while working my way through both the AAT and ACCA qualifications, and several promotions. Then I came to a cross roads where I could choose to continue with my specialism or return to more generalised accounting. I had always been happiest when out visiting clients and feeling like part of a business, so I decided to follow that and made a move into industry. I worked in an SME and really broadened my commercial awareness. Sadly I outgrew the role and while I was very happy in this job, I knew there was more I could do to challenge myself. So I moved to a much larger company, managing the finance team. Here I really grew in my management skills, as well as my digital accounting skills in a much faster paced environment. Another crossroads led me to pursue an opportunity in a project management role on an international level.
Why are you passionate about training?
I have always loved developing both myself and others. Managing people is about much more than having a job title, it’s taking an interest in them, their development, and coaching them to success. It’s much easier to drive performance when you create a culture of people wanting to do things for themselves just as much as for their employer. Sharing knowledge and seeing others progress a a result is one of the most rewarding things we can do. We grow as individuals when we grow together.
What made you want to start this joint venture?
I have always had a curiosity for whether I would enjoy working for something that was my own, and I couldn’t think of anyone better to do it with. I met Flo when we started out on our mutual first day as apprentices and from the moment I met her I knew she was my kind of person. Over time out careers diverged, but I’m so happy to be working with a fellow professional who I respect, trust and admire. The fact that she is also a friend is just an extra bonus!
What makes you different as a trainer?
I think that I genuinely go the extra mile to make things understandable for people. delegates often are incredible in their chosen fields, but struggle to understand the jargon and complexity of accounting as it’s often an area which is kept under wraps until you reach a certain level in an organisation. Unlocking that understanding helps people move on in their careers and take those next steps. I want to help people do that and match their talent in their own core areas to the financial performance a business needs. Seeing someone realise they can grasp a new skill is empowering for them, and I really enjoy this part of training.
What’s a rewarding experience you’ve had in work to date?
For me, delivering any piece of work or project that has the potential to open up the understanding on finance is rewarding. When people can say “oh, that’s really clear, or I really understand the figures now when I know I’ve done something well, and it’s worthwhile.
If you could instantly become an expert in any skill, what skill would you choose?
I’d love to learn to juggle. I’ve tried a few times over the years and I can do some basics, but it’s a struggle to get any further. I often imagine myself busting out an amazing routine in front of friends and family when they are least expecting it one day, perhaps I ought to look for a professional coach!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Aim for the top, you can take anything lower but if you don’t aim high you will limit your chances.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
I love anything craft related, especially Amigurumi – it’s almost like the opposite of what I do all day so something completely different! People constantly tell me I should sell the things I make, but I don’t think we should always monetise the things we consider as hobbies. The things I make are personal – they are one of a kind and made with love and care.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
I’d go to Jersey, to the place my Nan took my on holiday. I have no idea what the hotel was called, but I just remember it was beautiful and on the last night she let me and my sister go all in on their dessert bar. We had six puddings apiece and I remember a spectacular flaming baked Alaska! I’d love to recreate that with my own little family.
What’s something on your bucket list that you’re determined to accomplish?
Hmm that’s a hard one. I’ve never really thought about my bucket list! I’d love to go to Japan one day?
So, there we have it, what a lovely introduction to Hayley. She is extremely passionate about training within businesses and especially how Halo Training Solutions can support you, your team and your business.
So if you want to find out more about our training whether it is the Finance for Non Finance Professionals training, Financial Awareness training or honing your skills on Powerpoint and Excel to achieve more then get in touch!