We're proud of our team. Do you want to meet them? Our 'I AM CMcN' series puts the spotlight on our team at Collins McNicholas to allow you to get to know them more. In this interview, we introduce you to Michelle Finan, Payroll Specialist based in our Sligo Office.
After my Maternity Leave, I wanted to return to the workplace where I could join a Company where I would be able to work around my family life.
Q.1 What is your job title, and what do you do from day to day in your job?
I am a Payroll Specialist within the Finance Department of Collins McNicholas.Our role as Payroll Specialists is to ensure the accurate and timely processing of payroll and invoicing on a weekly, fortnightly and four-weekly basis. This includes ensuring employee records are up to date and hours are recorded and processed correctly, including pensions, sports and social payments and union deductions. Cross-check controls carried out to ensure accuracy. Create and upload bank files. Upload payroll submissions to Revenue, generate reports as requested by Management and respond efficiently and professionally to queries from temps and consultants on tax, annual leave and ad hoc queries. I also work alongside my colleague to generate and issue Contracts of Employment.
Q.2 Why did you get into this line of work, and what brought you to work for Collins McNicholas?
After my Maternity Leave, I wanted to return to the workplace where I could join a Company where I would be able to work around my family life. A role opened up within Collins McNicholas internally, and I was successful. I was absolutely delighted to get offered the role. I started in November 2016 working within the Finance Team issuing Contracts of Employment. I then began to assist with Payroll and advanced to complete my Certificate in Payroll Techniques in 2018, which Collins McNicholas funded through their Educational Assistance Programme, leading to my current role as Payroll Specialist.
Q.3 What is your favourite thing about working at Collins McNicholas?
There is a huge sense of belonging. We are always included and made aware of what's happening in different areas of the Company. There is always a friendly, inclusive team environment. We are always supported and guided by Management. They actively encourage us to progress within our roles and within the Company through the Education Assistance programme the Company offers. There is a great work-life balance with our Hybrid working model and amazing trust between employees and management.
Q.4 What did you want to grow up to be as a kid?
I always had notions of being a Nurse, but that went totally out the window, and I settled for doing a First Aid Course. I don't think I would have made a very good nurse!
I used to work on a mushroom farm beside us at home to help fund my social life!!
Q.5 What was your funniest/weirdest job?
Actually, similarly to Catherine, when I was in secondary school, I used to work on a mushroom farm beside us at home to help fund my social life!! I wonder if it was the same mushroom farm! The early mornings were a bit of a killer, but we used to have the best fun. It was by no means glamorous, but worth it all.
Q.6 Tell us something we don’t know about you.
I have a runner-up All Ireland Football Club medal from 1999 when I was playing with my home club St Nathys Ladies GAA. We reached the All Ireland Club Final and were beaten by Rockchapel of Cork on the day. It was a huge achievement for the club, our parish and us individually.
Q.7 What’s your favourite holiday destination to date?
We went to Sorrento on our Honeymoon, and it was amazing. We took in the Island of Capri, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius while we were there. Such a stunning region. We spent some time in Australia and New Zealand, and I would definitely advise anyone who is thinking about travelling to do it - such a great experience!
Q.8 What was the last film you watched and/or book you read?
I think the last one I watched was Matilda – The Musical. It had us up off our seats dancing and singing. My kids loved it!
Q.9 Having worked alongside recruitment consultants for over five years, have you picked up any tips you would like to share with candidates when going for an interview?
Compile as much information as you can on the company you are interviewing with. Prepare some questions and answers and practice them out loud. Listen carefully to the questions you are asked and ask the interviewer to repeat them or explain further if you are unsure. Use the STAR interview technique to answer your questions about your skills and experiences. Relax and try to stay calm (not as easy as it sounds), and you will come across as more confident.
If you're interested in working with Collins McNicholas or looking for a career in Accounting and Finance like Michelle, visit one of the links below.
Michelle Finan
Payroll Specialist
michelle.finan@collinsmcnicholas.ie
