Amy Paine

I’m someone who thrives on learning and self-motivation. I love reading, going on long walks in nature, spending time with horses, and staying active through running. I also enjoy relaxed coffee dates and good conversation. Professionally, I’m innovative and results-driven, with a strong track record in process improvements and project work. I’m particularly skilled in Excel and enjoy using it to solve problems and streamline systems.

I am a finance professional qualified by experience, currently a member of CIMA and committed to continuing my studies from 2025 onwards. With over a decade of experience across diverse finance roles, I’ve built a strong foundation in GL accounting, reconciliations, financial reporting and analysis, credit control, and end-to-end process management. My work is driven by integrity, curiosity, and a genuine passion for finding smarter ways to operate.

In my current role as a Staff Accountant at Focal Agent, I produce monthly performance reports for senior management, such as low-margin and year-to-date summaries, which help highlight areas for business improvement. I manage the full operational cycle for freelance photographers, including onboarding, billing, reconciliations, and IR35-compliant invoicing. I’m regularly involved in month-end processes—completing balance sheet reconciliations, checking pricing data for accuracy, responding to queries, and contributing to audit samples. A core part of my value lies in my ability to identify inefficiencies and lead improvements: I’ve independently built refined Excel tools and developed new reporting structures that support strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.

Before this, I worked at SOVOS (formerly Accordance Technical Services) as a Staff Accountant. I managed suspense account reconciliations, analyzed ledger balances, and led key data migrations during the company’s acquisition. I was closely involved in software transitions and supported both finance and operational teams through training and documentation. I handled billing for complex European clients, assisted with sales reporting, and processed commission payments in line with FCA guidelines. My technical proficiency with systems like Salesforce, FinancialForce, and Netsuite helped me navigate fast-paced changes and maintain accuracy under pressure.

Earlier in my career, I worked as a Credit Analyst at Lockton International. This role gave me deep exposure to client money management, insurance finance, and regulatory compliance under FSA and FCA frameworks. I supported both internal stakeholders and clients, attended review meetings in London and Brighton, and maintained robust reporting systems.

My first finance role was with AVIVA as a Pension Client Administrator, where I managed high-value requests for Aviva’s gold scheme clients, trained junior staff, and provided technical support around cash-handling procedures. I also became a key point of contact for third-party trustees and handled complex telephone queries with professionalism.

Throughout my career, I’ve demonstrated a consistent ability to take initiative, adapt quickly, and find solutions that add value to the business. I thrive in environments where I can contribute to long-term growth through both detail-focused financial work and broader strategic insight. 

I am currently a member of CIMA and plan to resume studying towards full qualification from 2025 onwards. My earlier academic background includes A Levels in English Literature and Language (B), Sociology (B), and Photography (A) from Reigate Sixth Form College, as well as GCSEs in core subjects including English (B), Maths (B), and Science (C), along with a Distinction in BTEC Business Studies from The Priory C of E School in Dorking.