My Journey: Success and Resilience

"Investing in myself has always been a priority - Now its my chance to pay it forward."

Life has a unique way of presenting challenges, each one testing our limits in unexpected ways. My personal journey has been a testament to this truth—a journey marked by resilience, growth, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of adversity, there is always a path forward.

Early Years

Growing up amidst the Troubles in Northern Ireland wasn't just a chapter of my life; it was an entire landscape that shaped who I am today. The turmoil, the fear, the uncertainty—it was the backdrop to my childhood, a constant presence that left an indelible mark on my psyche.

In those days, going to school wasn't just about learning math or history; in the early days it was about staying safe and being aware. Also being prepared for change in an instant - usually to a new home and school overnight.

Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a resilience that emerged—a resilience born out of necessity. My elder sister and I learnt to adapt, to survive, to persevere in the face of adversity. It was a battle we faced together, united by a shared determination to not let the violence take our childhoods.

However growing up in such an environment meant growing up fast. We were forced to confront harsh realities at an age when most children were still innocent and carefree.

And make no mistake, it was tough—tougher than words can adequately convey. It was tough to continually have to move, make new friends and then again witness sectarian violence that would drive change again. It was tough to live in constant state of not knowing what tomorrow might bring.

Looking back, I realize that growing up in the Troubles taught me some of life's most valuable lessons. It taught me the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It taught me the power of community and solidarity, of coming together to support one another

"Looking back, I realize that growing up in the Troubles taught me some of life's most valuable lessons. It taught me the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It taught me the power of community and solidarity, of coming together to support one another."

So yes, growing up in the Troubles was tough—tougher than most people will ever know. But it was within those tumultuous times that I discovered a strength within myself—a resilience born from the need to persevere despite the odds. This resilience has became my guiding light, propelling me forward even through the darkest of moments.

Naviagting from School to Banking

Navigating the path from school to a career in compliance has been a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, challenges, and moments of revelation. My trajectory has been anything but linear, yet each step has contributed to the person I am today.

"Little did I know at the time, these diverse experiences would serve as the foundation for my future career in compliance."

At school I was drawn to subjects that delved into the intricacies of law, economics, and ethics, but even then, the path forward was far from clear. As I transitioned into higher education, I found myself exploring a myriad of disciplines, each offering its own unique perspective on the world. From courses in psychology to seminars in computer science - eager to uncover the connections between seemingly disparate fields. Little did I know at the time, these diverse experiences would serve as the foundation for my future career in compliance.

Internships and part-time jobs became my testing ground, providing invaluable insights into the inner workings of various industries and organisations. It was here that I first encountered the complexities of regulatory compliance in practice, grappling with real-world challenges and dilemmas - and the personal impacts of crime and legal issues whether that be in the Trade Union or in the courts.

Then as I progressed and through my legal training at the European Central Bank (ECB) I discovered a passion for financial regualtion. This became my focus, guiding me towards opportunities that aligned with my newfound expertise and skills. But what I learned at the ECB was a scary fact - that after 20 years of academic studies, when you leave university and start your first job you think you know eveything... the truth is you quickly learn you actually know nothing.

Getting into Compliance

"...compliance success requires an incredible amount of EQ. You need to understand others. There is allot of trial and error."

Transitioning into my career in compliance and finance was a journey filled with twists and turns, each presenting its own unique challenges. It was still an early stage for compliance departments with many still sitting under legal or accounting. I also had already understood that I needed to develop my knowledge fast and with depth on financial instruments and products. How can I speak about how to implement regulation if I dont understand the product and services?

But thankfully, even though I was told by a recruiter that I would never get a job in compliance because I had "no experience" I pushed forward. Amidst any setbacks, I saw opportunities - and thankfully I soon got my first break into compliance and within 18 months I had won the industry "UK Young Compliance Officer of the Year" award from Complinet/Thomson Reuters.

However I had only just started - I had so much to do to grow and learn. and it wasn't just products - compliance success requires an incredible amount of EQ. You need to understand others. There was allot of trial and error. But with every "obstacle", I embraced the chance to expand my skills and knowledge, knowing that overcoming adversity is essential for success.

I've also used industry working groups and platforms like LinkedIn to expand my network, connecting with professionals who share my interests and values.

Most importantly I've also embraced the flexibility to move between roles and companies, allowing me to tailor my career path to my learning and development needs. Also it's intriguing how the roles I initially questioned, thinking "Why do I need to learn this?" turned out to be the most rewarding in the end.

"Success is all about personal growth, which comes from working in a role that aligns with your passions and values, with ample opportunities for development."

It's important to also never let job titles or monetary incentives drive your decisions, as these factors don't necessarily lead to true success. Success is all about personal growth, which comes from working in a role that aligns with your passions and values, with ample opportunities for development. Most importantly, it's about being surrounded by the right people—mentors, colleagues, and supporters—who uplift and inspire you on your journey.

I've come to realize that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to career progression—each person's journey is unique. Seeking advice from industry mentors whom I respect has also been invaluable in navigating the ups and downs of my career.

Being True to Yourself

Amidst the hustle and bustle of climbing the career ladder, I also held fast to a principle close to my heart: treating everyone with equality and respect. It's a simple philosophy, but one that has guided me through both personal and professional interactions, reminding me of the importance of empathy and compassion in everything we do. Do not change who you are.

I've always found it difficult to grasp the dynamics of politics and power, and how they can transform individuals. Ultimately, this is why I prefer to work for myself.

The pressure to climb the corporate ladder and achieve greater heights of success can be overwhelming, leading individuals to compromise their values and lose sight of who they truly are. What starts as a noble ambition to excel can often morph into a relentless drive to get ahead at any cost, leaving individuals feeling disconnected from their core beliefs and motivations.

"...it's essential to prioritise integrity and authenticity above all else."

As we navigate the complexities of the banking industry, it's essential to prioritise integrity and authenticity above all else. By staying true to who we are and holding fast to our principles, we can navigate the turbulent waters of office politics without losing sight of what truly matters.

In my journey, I've also understood the profound impact even the smallest act of kindness can have on someone in need. Whether it's taking five minutes out of your day to lend a helping hand or offering words of encouragement, these moments have the power to transform lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.

Becoming my own Boss and Paying it Forward

Founding RAW Compliance and Virtual Risk Solutions were significant milestones in my career, allowing me to not only lead transformative projects but also to give back to the global community. Through these platforms, I've been able to provide mentorship and affordable training to aspiring professionals, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future leaders in the industry.

RAW Compliance

"RAW Compliance is a passion, a mission, and a commitment to supporting others improved compliance knowledge, experience, collaboration and decision making."

RAW Compliance holds personal significance for me on multiple levels. Firstly, it's a culmination of my own journey—a journey marked by challenges, growth, and a deep-seated passion for ethical informed compliance and decision making coupled with product and regulatory knowledge. Having navigated through the complexities of the compliance landscape myself, I understand firsthand the struggles and obstacles that professionals face in this field.

RAW Compliance is not just a platform; it's a reflection of my commitment to making a difference. It's an embodiment of the lessons I've learned and the values I hold dear—integrity, transparency, and accountability. Through RAW Compliance, I have the opportunity to channel my experiences and expertise into something meaningful, something that has the potential to transform lives and businesses for the better.

Moreover, RAW Compliance is important to me on a personal level because it allows me to give back to a community that has supported me throughout my career. By providing mentorship, training, and resources to compliance professionals around the world, I'm able to pay it forward and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

In essence, RAW Compliance is a passion, a mission, and a commitment to supporting others improved compliance knowledge, experience, collaboration and decision making. And for that reason, its importance to me is immeasurable.

VRS - Virtual Risk Solutions

Starting Virtual Risk Solutions (VRS) wasn't just about grabbing the reins of my career—it was about unleashing a mix of badass skillsets and knowledge I've picked up along the way to serve my clients like a boss!

"I'm free to get my hands dirty innovating - experimenting with new tech, methodologies, and best practices, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in compliance."

Now, let's address the elephant in the room—what's it like working with me? Well, buckle up, folks, 'cause here are three things you'll quickly learn:

1. When it comes to risk management and regulations, there are few who can dive in and build frameworks from the ground up like I can.
2. Managing me ain't no walk in the park. I will speak up, I will ask questions, I will challenege, and I will push back when needed.
3. I've been known to work at a turbocharged pace—like a ninja fueled by Red Bull when it comes to cracking compliance problems! While the rest of the squad is still scratching their heads over the problem, I've already analysed the current state, understood the "why it's that way," compared industry best practices, and emerging regulations, and I'll have some solution options at hand. But sometimes being ahead of the curve ain't all sunshine and rainbows, especially when change management is slower than a turtle on a Sunday stroll. You gotta bring people along on the journey with you, which sometimes requires you to slow down to speed up. It's a delicate dance.

So now at VRS by drawing on my experiences across different industries and roles, I've been able to bring fresh perspectives to the table, cooking up innovative strategies to tackle even the trickiest compliance conundrums whilst delivering time senstive requirements with the highest level of quailty.

Plus, being my own boss means I get to call the shots! I'm free to get my hands dirty innovating - experimenting with new tech, methodologies, and best practices, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in compliance.

But running your own business is not all smooth sailing in the land of entrepreneurship. Besides client work, I've gotta juggle a boatload of administrative tasks, accounting, marketing hoopla, and HR headaches. Yep, running the show ain't for the faint of heart!

Still, VRS has been one heck of a ride. It's given me the chance to flex my muscles, make a real difference for my clients, and live out my dream of being a compliance superhero. And hey, I wouldn't trade it for the world! And im super excited to say that once again Im getting to do it all over again as the new and improved Version 3.0!!!

Being a Working Mother

"Being able to work from home has granted me the freedom to be present for my children while pursuing my professional endeavors."

Balancing motherhood with my career has proven to be my most formidable challenge yet. Raising three children while striving towards my professional aspirations demands a level of dedication and perseverance I never knew I possessed. Yet, through every trial and triumph, my unwavering commitment to both my family and my goals has served as a guiding light, reminding me of the true priorities in life.

For years, achieving the elusive "perfect" work-life balance seemed like an unattainable goal. Often, my career took precedence over family, leading to feelings of guilt and imbalance. However, with the normalisation of remote work, a newfound sense of fulfillment has emerged.

Being able to work from home has granted me the freedom to be present for my children while pursuing my professional endeavors. This newfound flexibility has enriched both aspects of my life in ways I never thought possible.

Going Forward

"...with determination and a commitment to making a difference, anything is possible."

Beyond the accolades and achievements, my greatest joy comes from giving back to others. Whether it's sharing my experiences as a global trainer and keynote speaker or serving on various committees and panels, I am passionate about driving positive change and fostering collaboration within the industry.

My journey is far from over, but I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire others to face their challenges head-on, knowing that with determination and a commitment to making a difference, anything is possible. Together, we can overcome even the greatest of obstacles and achieve our aspirations, one step at a time.