In this series of ‘Emma Meets', Emma Peterson, Director of Recruit 121 Finance & Accounting Solutions, finds out more about the sponsors of the Finance Awards Wales 2025.
Finance Awards Wales is designed to recognise, attract and invest in the talented finance professionals working in Wales, showcasing the best of the best in the finance industry. In this edition, Emma Meets Rachel Lai FCCA FIPA FABRP, Partner at Menzies
Menzies returned to sponsor the Accountant of the Year award at the Finance Awards Wales this year. What made you decide to return and support the awards?
We really enjoyed being part of the process last year, and the awards ceremony was great fun. We wanted to continue to support the outstanding talent that Wales has to offer within the accountancy community. We are particularly keen to highlight that talent comes from diverse backgrounds and that accountants do not have to fit a particular mould, and the nominees for the awards are testament to that. Accountants work across such a wide range of sectors in a myriad of different roles, which allows people with many different talents to flourish. We are delighted to be able to celebrate this diverse group of professionals.
How does sponsoring this award align with your company's values and goals in the finance sector?
Our core values are to inspire, to innovate, to collaborate and to empathise. We value the opportunity to continue to be a part of a community of finance professionals in Wales and to work with the amazing talent across the sector. As the rate of change is ever increasing, it is so important to be forward-thinking and the awards recognise those pushing forward and taking ownership of their professional growth. We are committed to supporting the future of the profession and we hope that this award will inspire the next generation of accountants as well as those who are established in their careers.
How does your organisation actively support and contribute to the development of the accounting profession in Wales?
We recruit trainees in Wales each year and support them through an accountancy qualification as well as providing them the opportunity to gain experience and skills on a variety of projects. By giving our trainees responsibility from the outset, we allow them to develop quickly and learn on the job, to stand them in good stead when they qualify. Continuous learning and development is key for our team at all levels of experience to ensure that we keep up to date with the latest changes in regulations and best practice and to deliver the best possible service.
We support the ACCA community in Wales through its local network and by organising events to bring together members, affiliates and students. We know how much people value the chance to get together to share their experiences and stories and to grow their networks.
In your view, how does recognising and awarding an individual, positively impact the overall performance and reputation of the accounting profession?
Whilst it is always hard to choose just one person as the winner of an award, it’s fantastic to shine the light on someone as an example to others. People often talk about how important it is to them to have role models. Recognising an individual can provide inspiration to those who are looking to develop their careers and motivate them to aim for a high level of performance.
The reputation of the profession is enhanced through showcasing talent and professionalism to those outside the industry, reinforcing trust and confidence in the eyes of the public.
Where’s your happy place and why?
When I get a chance, I enjoy travelling in Japan, especially experiencing the food and culture. I also love that there is such a variety in the climate from the snowy north to the subtropical south and a hugely rich history which has had limited influence from elsewhere until relatively recently. And where else in the world can you buy Hello Kitty socks on a bullet train?
