Think Global Recruitment assisted accountant Helena McGrath to move from Galway in Ireland to the Cayman Islands. So how is it going?

Helena McGrath enjoying beach games.

What job were you doing before you moved to the Cayman Islands?
 
I was working as Head of Finance in Ireland for a charity that supported people with disabilities. It was an interesting role but I felt I had achieved everything I could in that position. It was time for a change.

Why did you decide to move overseas?

I always wanted to travel but preferred the option to work abroad. I knew accountancy is a good profession to achieve this goal. Also for future career development, having international experience on your CV is viewed positively by future prospective employers. I chose the Cayman Islands for the lifestyle and climate. As I had anticipated it’s a relaxed work and social environment. Your work schedule is busy but the office atmosphere is relaxed and helpful. The proximity of the Cayman Islands to the United States and South America is ideal for additional travel.

Has your move met your original expectations? How?
 
Yes and I would say exceeded them. I thought it would take months to settle in but I was settled in a matter of weeks. The company I now work for was very helpful and made the transition as smooth as possible. The organisation is very people orientated and goes to great lengths to ensure you are happy both in work and outside of work.

I love the Cayman Islands, it’s so beautiful. I expected George Town to be bigger and more developed but I now like its quaint charm. The beaches are postcard perfect and I love the outdoors activities. I am currently learning to sail and I love it!

What has been the biggest benefit of moving?
 
I have met so many amazing people from all over the world. I sit next to a guy from Zimbabwe and we have become the best of friends. An unlikely pair but a friend for life. You learn and experience so many different cultures even though the population of where you live is only 50, 000. I feel a great sense of achievement for moving here alone and making a success of it. It’s scary as well as exciting but more than worth the risk.

Has your standard of living/quality of life improved? How?

Yes. I am more active now. I have started to play Gaelic football, sailing, volleyball etc. I walk on the beach three times a week. My work day flies by because I am so happy there.

Have you taken up any new activities/sports?

Yes and I’m also learning French!

What has been the most difficult part of moving abroad?
 
I have met wonderful people but I miss my family and friends terribly, nothing or no one can replace them.

What advice would you give to other Accountants who are considering relocating abroad?

If you are thinking about it, stop thinking about it and just do it! You will never look back. For me it’s been and remains to be a very positive move and I love my new life.

What are the main work culture differences you have noticed between your home country and overseas?

Here you are treated and valued so much. The company I work for never focus on the negative and reinforce all the good things you do. The partners are friendly with an open door policy, which is just that. They appreciate you and regard you as their most valuable asset.

What have been the highlights so far about life abroad?
 
Learning to sail, meeting extraordinary people and soaking up the sun every chance I get!!!

What, in your opinion, are the advantages of working overseas in terms of gaining future employment?

 Its shows you are flexible and adapt well to change. Promotion possibilities are faster abroad and you gain invaluable experience.

3 August 2007

This article was supplied by Think Global Recruitment. If you would like further information or advice on interviewing skills or are interested in pursuing a career in accountancy overseas then please contact Think Global Recruitment on +44 (0) 870 242 6609 or visit www.thinkgr.com.

Subject: interview techniques, expat assignments, foreign postings