Established makeup artist and accountant Lily Sharp has had an unusual journey into the corporate world of accountancy. Despite studying for a Bachelor of Commerce – majoring in Accounting and Marketing – she’d dismissed a corporate career, thinking it would be dull.

Lily had already found her niche, becoming a makeup artist in her teens. Her word-of-mouth makeup business had taken off when she created a social media presence on Facebook and Instagram. It gave her both a creative outlet and an income while she studied at University of Canterbury.

In her last term, she got a marketing job with a hotel management firm and leapt at the opportunity to go to Queenstown. She enjoyed the role; skied, partied and met her partner, but Queenstown was expensive and career opportunities were limited.

After a soul-destroying six months looking for a job back in Christchurch, Lily found herself in the corporate world – in the central services team at Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch. “I did payroll and a bit of marketing. I loved it! Sonya (Hazlett, business development/central services manager) is amazing and the office culture is great. They wanted me to succeed – that’s the biggest thing.”

Eighteen months later, and with a bit of encouragement, Lily moved into the Business Advisory Services accounting team. “When I started working in accounting, I realised that it’s very different to what you learn at uni. “I like the client interaction. I find it interesting listening to clients and how they want to grow their businesses. Every day is different – different jobs, clients and industries.”

Now Lily is doing the Chartered Accountant Programme and is grateful that Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch gives her study leave. “And there are so many people here to help me and talk to,” she says.

“Everyone is so like-minded, driven and friendly. It’s cool to see what people have achieved in their careers, so I see where I want mine to go.”

She’s also still doing makeup for people, especially during the busy school formal and wedding seasons. “I love doing the makeup for brides, bridesmaids, mother of the bride … I love it all. It’s so nice to be part of someone’s day like that.”

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