This month, we shine the spotlight onto finance officer Rachel Davies, whose inspirations include namesake Rachel Green, rowing and retail!

How long have you been at ActiveQuote and what does your role involve?

I’ve been at ActiveQuote for nearly three and a half years. I initially started here as a reconciliation officer, solving anomalies, and now I’m the finance officer, preparing monthly management accounts and payroll.

Who or what inspired you growing up?

I didn’t really know what I wanted to be when I was younger or have a plan. My family always encouraged me to do whatever I wanted. I never thought I’d end up studying towards being an accountant but I love it and the challenge it brings. Perhaps it’s the job you least expect that turns out to be the best one! An inspiration of mine is Rachel ‘gal pal’ Green; she started at Central Perk and ended at Louis Vuitton (I could do with the staff discount!). All jokes aside, there are various people who inspire me in different ways from my family, friends and various successful business owners. They all have traits to take inspiration from, as inspiration can be found in anything.

What was your first job?

I turned down offers to go to university, finishing school after my A-levels and starting work full time in a finance role, whilst beginning my ACCA studies at the same time. My first job was working for my dad’s building company, which is where I got into the finance field and gained valuable experience.

What’s the most memorable job you’ve ever had?

I worked for 118 118, but I never saw in the office those two men who run around on the adverts!

What do you like about working at AQ?

I like the department I work in and the daily banter. I’m ambitious in my career and my current aim is pass my next ACCA exam in December.

What do you do in your spare time?

I love various sports that keep me active, such as running, going to the gym, bouldering and climbing mountains. I'm also studying for my next ACCA exam, and shopping helps to keep me sane whilst I’m studying!

Tell us something we don’t know about you

From 12 to 18 I spent most of my spare time after school rowing, which is where I found my passion for exercise.

Where did you go on your last holiday?

I have just got back from Barcelona and Palma, which was a well-deserved break after my accounting exam!