Introduction
As some of you may be aware, I was asked to speak at the RTPI X WiP International Women’s Day event – Empower Spaces: Planning for Inclusive Built Environments on finding harmony – strategies for balancing career and family life.
As is often the case when speaking at an event, this caused me to reflect on my own career journey, alongside my family life and the commitments that arise from it.
Suffice to say, I shared my own journey and the decisions I made along the way. Reflecting on this led me to present on the fact that the topic is life balance, as opposed to work-life balance, since the two are by default inextricably linked.
My Experience
I qualified as an accountant at a small, local accountancy practice. University wasn’t the right path for me personally, so I chose to study while I worked and qualified in my early twenties.
I spent the rest of my career in various corporate businesses, initially with a pure finance focus, climbing the ladder to hold Finance Director roles while also being the best mother I could be to two young children.
I then chose to transition into a self-employed role due to a change in personal circumstances and moved into more business-oriented roles, as opposed to purely financial ones. During COVID, I undertook a coaching qualification to add another string to my bow.
Angela Dimbleby
Managing Director – DLP Planning
FCCA
07867 418 568
Angela.dimbleby@dlpconsultants.co.uk
dlpconsultants.co.uk
linkedin.com/dlp-planningltd
In February 2024, I was appointed to the position of Managing Director of the DLP Group.
I love it!
Would I have anticipated, at any point prior to the last 4-5 years of my career, that I would strive for an MD position?
No.
Did I make the various moves in my career with this goal in mind?
No.
What I did do was make moves throughout my career that enhanced both my life balance and my career. I was brave enough to be flexible in my decision-making when life threw the odd curveball my way.
What advice would I give to you?
- Communicate with your current employer while you’re with them to give them the opportunity to help you meet your changing needs.
- Be adaptable throughout your career – life will always throw ‘curveballs’.
- Be clear about what you are looking for in your next role before applying for positions.
- Understand the values of the business you are considering working for. Alignment of values is crucial to sustainable career development.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions at an interview that may seem a little ‘cheeky’. I would much rather cover all queries in advance of a job offer.
I consider myself very fortunate to hold the role I do now.
I can share my values with my colleagues during my working week and instill those values into the culture of the business.
I promote a culture of well-being, of looking out for each other, of being supportive, of working hard as a team to deliver results for all, and of thanking and celebrating the achievements of the team.
Additionally, I am able to get to know each employee individually and offer support and guidance in their career development.
How can DLP help?
If you are interested in joining DLP, please have a look at our careers page for current vacancies and feel free to email your CV to careers@dlpconsultants.com. We will always keep CVs on file for future vacancies.
