International Women's Day: Celebrating Women in Accountancy

In this blog, you will learn:

• About the expertise and experience of a female Senior Accountant.
• Gain insight into the current challenges women face in the accountancy and finance sector.
• How to find and apply for the best Senior Accountant jobs.

International Women’s Day is an annual celebration to recognise women’s achievements and gives focus to issues such as gender equality. To celebrate the occasion, we’re drawing attention to the women in accountancy firms.

To help more women take the plunge into the world of accountancy, we recently caught up with the Chartered Accountant Jasminka. From leaving her home town, to starting a family in a new country, Jasminka is an inspiring Senior Accountant with quite a story to tell.

In this exclusive interview, Jasminka shares her thoughts on International Women’s Day and her experience working in the accountancy and finance sector.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am a qualified ACCA Accountant and a mother to two grown-up children. I was born in North Macedonia and I came over to the UK as an Au Pair. I was always an ambitious young girl, and unfortunately, Macedonia did not provide the prospects for a sustainable career.

At the age of 23, I decided to make the big and permanent move to London in pursuit of a better life. 

I started my education in finance with a short course in Business Studies where I was introduced to Bookkeeping. I liked the course so much that I enrolled to become an Accountant through the Association of Accounting Technicians (ATT) and later gained my ACCA qualification. I took my exams and education very seriously, all the while raising my children and working full time. 

Describe your career history

I started my career as an Accounts Assistant some twenty years ago in the hospitality industry. I worked within various accounting jobs, rising up the ranks to become an Accountant.

After some self-convincing, I decided to try my luck within the practice sector, and I have not looked back since. When I switched from industry to practice, I was lucky that I found a job very quickly. I am currently working as a Senior Accountant for a small practice in Chiswick.

Do you find the accountancy and finance industry to be particularly female or male-dominated?

I think it is generally a mixed bag within the junior and middle ranks, although I have found that senior level roles are certainly more male-dominated, especially within the partnership level. 

Accountancy and auditing businesses in the UK are less likely to be established by women, why do you think that is?

I think there are various reasons for this, one being that women are certainly more risk-averse due to their taking time off work to raise a family. Naturally, this puts women behind for at least a few years. I think this is an important area that we should work on as a society.

Another reason would be the lack of opportunities given to women to progress as they are often overlooked when it comes to a promotion in their chosen career.

What did you dream of doing when you were younger?

Like all young girls, I had a life dream. But speaking sincerely, I didn’t dream of having a destined profession or career. I think I wanted to become a lawyer at one point, but I never pursued it, and it was more of a wistful idea. I guess at that age I was more worried about leaving Macedonia. I was just happy to take on a job and work my way up.

Which women inspire you the most?

For me, it would have to be Serena Williams, one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. She had to overcome various obstacles in her career to get to the top of the game and yet she is so fierce and stands true to who she is. I also find Jennifer Lopez so inspiring as she has an amazing work ethic and she is fully committed to her profession.  

Define a great leader

Resilient, accountable, and driven. Someone who inspires, motivates and recognises others.

What has been your biggest achievement so far?

Personally, I am very pleased that I have managed to create a family and start a new life in a different country. I have come to feel very at home in London, and to this day, I am amazed by my bravery and determination. It does go to show that you can do anything you want in life, and successfully too.

Professionally, I am very proud that I have completed my accountancy studies, but my aim is to become an owner or a Partner of an accountancy firm. I have already started working on this and I am currently dealing with the legality of setting up a practice. I have gotten this far, why give up now?

How did you overcome barriers to get into accounting?

My very first job in accounting was a three-month long work experience within the hospitality industry. Once you have some experience working in a finance-based role, life becomes easier. I discovered that finding that first job is the most difficult part. After that, it has been easy moving jobs.

Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women trying to establish a career in accountancy or anyone striving for gender equality?

I would say work hard, be the best at what you do and when the opportunity comes along, ask for it. Use your voice to make yourself heard and be patient. If you fail in the first instance, try again, keep trying and don’t give up. Just go for it and don’t let any refusal dishearten you. 

What would your advice be to any women considering setting up their own accountancy firm or becoming a partner?

I support you! Go for it and the sky's the limit. At the same time, I’d say be prepared to dream big and work hard. 

What main change would you like to see for young girls in the next generation?

I think slow change is already happening in society where women get more chances, at least in the western world. I think the biggest change I would like to see in the next generation is simply women being true to themselves and what they want out of life, not letting societal conventions or trends dictate their path. I think that’s the key to happiness and success. 

What were your experiences of using Spencer Clarke Group?

Spencer Clarke Group took the time to get to know me, both personally and professionally. We worked from there to match me with a suitable role. They were very informative and always available to answer questions and queries. 

Using an agency helps to smooth the whole process from the first introduction, to interview and finally offer of a job. 

Discover what Accountancy professionals are looking for in a job in 2026

As a specialist accountancy recruitment agency, we know how to support accountancy practices and private sector businesses in their mission to attract, engage and retain the best talent.

After conducting thorough research with accountancy professionals in the private sector, we created the What Accountancy Professionals Are Really Looking for in a Job in 2026 report.

This report looks into the key factors shaping job preferences and expectations within the industry and uncovers topics such as career motivations, preferred salary, perks and benefits and desired company culture.

Read the full What Accountancy Professionals Are Really Looking for in a Job in 2026 report here.

Accountant jobs

If you’re searching for your next Accountant job, why not take a look at the latest vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available. 

Struggling to recruit Accountants?

As specialist accountancy recruiters, we support practices nationwide with their permanent recruitment needs. 

If you’re struggling to find ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualified Accountants, why not get in touch with Senior Consultant Lauren Fisher on 01772 954200 to see how we can help?

Share your experience 

Every individual brings a unique set of experiences, thoughts, and insights to the table. We believe in giving a voice to a community of professionals to inspire positive change and champion reform in the Accountancy & Finance sector.

If you work in the Accountancy & Finance sector and would like to share your own personal and professional experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Perhaps you have a different perspective, could offer a fresh angle, or want to challenge assumptions. 

Simply reach out to our Head of Content, Nicole Sherwood, to discuss a collaboration which makes your voice count.

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations. 

In 2025, Spencer Clarke Group was awarded Best Public/Third Sector Recruitment Agency and Best Temporary Recruitment Agency at the Recruiter Awards. In 2024, Spencer Clarke Group was also named Recruitment Agency of the Year.