In our latest Meet the Team interview, we found out more about Abi Starzynski, Director in our Digital Finance team. Abi joined BHP in 2017 when the firm acquired Atkinsons Chartered Accountants and specialises in providing Virtual Finance Director services in the recruitment, e-commerce and project management sectors. Read on to discover her career highlights and what she likes to do away from the office.
What attracted to you to work for the firm?
Being part of a larger organisation means that we have a wide range of services, specialists and real-life experience in house.
To be able to reach out across the firm, be it by phone or in person, and get that real-time support has been fantastic. Not only do I benefit, but so do our clients. I’m able to put them in front of the right team/person or relay helpful guidance and advice from the wider team.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
Each day varies from acting as a portfolio FD, presenting monthly financial results and projections to business owners, through to working with the team to help and support our clients with upcoming deadlines and queries.
How has BHP helped you in your career so far?
BHP has continued to invest in my personal and professional development. Through Senior Development Academy programmes, mentorships, CPD courses and generally having a great ethos across the company about supporting each other, I feel well supported and encouraged at BHP.
What are your highlights and key achievements?
Qualifying as a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) in 2017 was a huge achievement for me. I left school at 16 and trained up with small accounting firms so the majority was self-funded and I had to study in my own time.
What or who inspires you at work?
I live by the ethos: you get out of life what you put in. So when I see clients and the team working hard, that really inspires me.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying for a role at BHP?
If you’re ambitious and hardworking, starting out or looking for your next move, I’d recommend BHP.
BHP is a supportive company that will invest in your development and work closely with you to help you achieve your aspirations.
What do you enjoy doing outside of working?
I enjoy spending time with my family, eating out and exploring new places locally and further afield.
What do you prefer? A TV series or a film? And which genre do you prefer?
I prefer ‘bingeworthy’ TV series of any genre.
If you could host a celebrity dinner, who would you invite?
- David Attenborough (Most Interesting)
- Gino D’Acampo (Food + Entertainment)
- Roman Kemp (Entertainment)
- Bob Mortimer (Wild card)
- James Arthur (Music)
What is your favourite type of cuisine and why?
I love Italian food but, if I’m eating out, then Thai food is my favourite as it’s not something I cook at home.
What type of holiday do you prefer? Beach, active or city break?
A beach or city break – my favourite holiday was driving from San Francisco to LA along the coast.
If you weren’t in your current role, what would be your dream job?
Run an organisation/NFP that provides a fun, safe and supportive place for young people.
