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From Leading Shared Services to Supporting SEND Families – Meet Samantha Ryan

​When it comes to shared service management, Samantha knows her stuff.With a career built on navigating fast-paced change, leading high-performing teams, and staying two steps ahead of the next big thing in business ops, she’s seen (and solved) it all. But Sam’s talents don’t stop at spreadsheets and strategy—she’s also the author of SEND Help!, a heartfelt and practical guide for parents navigating the world of Special Educational Needs.In this Q&A, Liam O'Flaherty sat down with Samantha to chat about the reality of leadership in shared services—what it takes to thrive, what’s changing fast (spoiler alert: AI is knocking at the door), and why staying human in the digital age might just be the most powerful skill of all.Whether you're eyeing your first step into a shared services role or already deep in the trenches, Samantha’s insights are refreshingly honest, full of warmth, and packed with practical takeaways. Let's dive in.​What do you think future leaders should prioritise or focus on most in order to successfully make themselves appointable as a shared service manager?I think it’s less about ticking off qualifications and more about showing you can actually lead people through mess and change. You need to be someone who stays calm under pressure, communicates clearly, and isn’t afraid to get stuck in. If you’re the kind of person who sees a knot and wants to untangle it, you’re probably halfway there already. When leading a shared services team, you need to have one eye on how your operation is running right now and the other eye on what’s coming down the pipeline - the next new technology or shared services operating strategy. Curiosity is key to ensuring you always stay abreast of emerging technology and ways of working.​What are both the best and the most challenging aspects of being a shared service manager of a fast paced business?The best bit is the variety - you’re never bored. You get to fix things, improve how stuff works, and genuinely help people. I have always found great joy in my work and being of service to others, whether that’s leading a shared service team, a purchase to pay department or as a global process owner. The hardest part? There’s always something going on. Priorities change quickly, and you have to juggle a lot without dropping the ball. It can be exhausting some days, but also really rewarding when you get it right​What are your opinions about the relationship between a shared service manager and the CFO and CEO? What is critically important in building a successful partnership and providing the right support to the CEO/CFO?Trust is everything. They need to know you’ve got the detail covered, that you’ll flag issues early, and that you’re not sugar-coating anything. It’s also about understanding what keeps them up at night and making sure the shared service function isn’t adding to that. You’ve got to be steady, honest, and clear with no fluff.​What new key skills or attributes do you think the next generation of shared service managers are going to need to develop?Flexibility and digital confidence. Things move quickly now, and you’ve got to be open to learning new systems, new ways of working, and even letting go of old ways that aren’t cutting it anymore. People skills still matter too, probably more than ever. This current generation expect a work/life balance and flexibility – neither of which are bad things. So, ensuring you understand the needs of your team and the culture of your workforce is essential.​Are new technologies like Artificial Intelligence having much of an impact on your role as shared service manager yet? What impact do you think they will have over the next few years?Absolutely, AI has arrived. The key is to understand it, leverage it and not be afraid. AI can be really useful to shared service teams. Some of the repetitive stuff is getting automated, which is a win if it means teams can focus on the work that really needs a human brain. Over time, I think we’ll lean on AI more and more. It’ll still need people who understand the bigger picture and can spot when something doesn’t feel right. Shared Service leaders need to embrace AI and make it work effectively for their business.​Is it possible to maintain a reasonable work life balance at shared service manager Level or do you have to accept that there will be personal sacrifices in order to progress to that level?Honestly? There are busy seasons and tough patches where balance goes out the window. But I do think it’s possible overall, you just have to be clear with yourself (and others) about what’s non-negotiable. I’ve learned not to feel guilty about switching off, because you can’t pour from an empty cup.​Away from core knowledge, what personality traits have been critical to your success as a shared service manager? Are these natural or have you worked on developing them?Patience, humour, and the ability to stay calm when things get chaotic. Some of that’s just who I am, but I’ve definitely had to work on things like not taking things personally and learning to pick my battles. It’s a people-heavy role, so you need thick skin, but also empathy. What is the one single best piece of advice you were given early in your career that still holds true today?“Don’t wait to feel ready - just start” and “dress for the job you want, not the job you’ve got” (I actually think I first heard that on a Jennifer Aniston movie years ago!). I’ve learned that you grow into roles, not the other way round. Don’t wait to be asked to step forward in your role. Go that extra mile. Say yes, even if your voice trembles as you say it. Most people are winging it to some degree anyway.  In ConclusionSamanthas’s approach to leadership is the kind we all wish we worked with—real, grounded, and refreshingly human. From embracing AI to keeping empathy at the centre of decision-making, she reminds us that successful leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about staying curious, stepping up, and staying calm when things get chaotic.Whether you're at the start of your shared services journey or eyeing your next big promotion, there’s something in Samantha’s story for everyone. And if you’re juggling a demanding role with life outside of work (who isn’t?), her reflections on balance, boundaries and being brave even when you’re not 100% ready hit just the right note.If you want to explore more of Samantha’s world beyond shared services, check out her brilliant book SEND Help!—a thoughtful, empowering guide for parents supporting children with Special Educational Needs. Because just like in business, when we work together, support each other, and lead with heart, amazing things happen.​Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.​

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From Practice to Industry: A Chartered Accountant’s Journey to Success

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Navigating the shift from professional practice to industry can be a daunting yet rewarding experience for accountants. In our latest interview, we sit down with Carter Christlo, an EMEA Financial Accounting & Reporting Controller at Insight, a Fortune 500 company specialising in business-to-business IT solutions.

With an impressive background as an ACA chartered accountant, Carter began his accounting career at KPMG before moving to Insight Direct, where he achieved his qualification. His unique perspective on transitioning from professional practice to industry offers invaluable insights for both aspiring and seasoned accountants.

In this comprehensive interview, conducted by our Senior Business Manager, Jack Curtis, we explore Carter's remarkable career journey, his strategic approach to personal and professional growth, and his practical advice for accountants aiming to make a similar transition.

Whether you are an aspiring accountant, an industry transition seeker, or a finance professional, this interview promises valuable insights to help you thrive in your career.

How did you find the transition into industry from professional practice whilst part-qualified?

Tough but incredibly rewarding. The transition from professional practice into industry is never easy, amplified by doing so when being part qualified. Becoming qualified was always an immediate priority but ultimately, I knew that I wanted to move into an environment where I could make a difference and add significant value, but also remain with a well-regarded and highly successful business.

What advice would you give to students completing ACA in industry?

Studying within professional practice has a lot of structure coupled with training alongside numerous peers going through similar exams / experiences. This was a stark difference when studying my ACA in industry, meaning I needed that motivation and commitment to complete. I sought out other avenues of learning off my own back as it suited my learning style, so the advice is certainly to find a learning method and adapt to a style best suited to you.

What main skillset has industry developed when compared to professional practice?

I have utilised all elements / skills from my time in Audit to take ownership on more projects, to which I am still learning and developing…that never stops! The question always remains…’Are you busy or are you Audit busy…? Which is an apt question in my opinion! Working in professional practice has given me the immediate focus and ability to successfully complete multiple, complex tasks at once, both from a technical and personal perspective. The softer skillset I have developed, when meeting a variety of high-profile clients and stakeholders has stood me in good stead when addressing senior stakeholders now - both internally and externally.

Originating in professional practice, do you think it’s given you a good grounding in being successful in industry?

In one word…absolutely! The exposure you receive from an Audit perspective is unparalleled (in my opinion) and has facilitated the success that I am experiencing now with Insight. Originating in professional practice gives a perspective that other sectors / industries wouldn’t do, especially to a variety of businesses via the rotations. My technical accounting ability gave me an immediate boost when I made the move originally due to the work I had been involved in prior. It has given a stable base where I can now continue my development down whichever avenue I see fit alongside the competency to do so. 

What factors did you consider when choosing a company to join?

Could they offer long term growth…and the personal fit were dealbreakers for me. Ultimately, I felt confident from a technical point of view so I knew I needed the right environment and company to ensure firstly I completed my qualification but equally could see further development in years to come. Inevitably things can change, but Insight have not only continued to support my technical development but personal growth too. I have had the pleasure of working for two businesses who put a genuine value on both those points.

Any other advice to give when considering a new opportunity?

My one piece of main advice would be to always remain brave. As Accountants we are built to mitigate risk, but this can potentially hold you back in your career, sometimes without realising at first. Remain goal orientated and ensure that those goals are being constantly reevaluated and measured against. Everyone’s journey is different, and you can never directly compare to anyone else, be brave to make those decisions and act on them when the time comes. At times growth will always feel like a risk and unnatural but remain confident in yourself and your ability whilst valuing the company you choose to work for not just the role / job that is on offer. Change is inevitable, embrace it don’t obstruct it. 

In conclusion, Carter's journey from professional practice to industry serves as a compelling blueprint for any accountant aiming to navigate a similar path. His candid reflections on the challenges he faced and the strategies he employed offer invaluable lessons for aspiring finance professionals. By leveraging the skills and experiences gained in professional practice, combined with a proactive approach to industry, Carter demonstrates that success is attainable with the right mindset and determination. As you consider your career trajectory, let Carter's story inspire you to seize new opportunities and continuously strive for personal and professional excellence.

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Note: If Carter's insights resonate with you and you are contemplating your next career move, our Sharp Consultancy experts are ready to guide you. Book a consultation to begin your journey towards achieving your career goals.

Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.