In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Monica Hughes, director at Shield Accident Management.
What was your first job?
My first job was in Swails Pharmacy in Moy. Back in the day, I thought I would become a pharmacist but that wasn’t the path I eventually chose.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a degree in Applied Psychology (BSc) and masters in Business Psychology (MSc). I am also a qualified financial consultant.
Whilst I know that qualifications are vital for some jobs, I also believe that there’s no better alternative to practical hands-on work experience. Success is not always about how many degrees a person has.
What do you attribute your success to?
Having a positive mind-set – it sounds simple, but it has served me well throughout the years. And I don’t just mean in business, I apply this mindset to my personal life and family goals as well.
I focus more on improving myself and making things better for my family first.
We don’t live in a perfect world so inevitably things will go wrong, in business and in your personal life, so being able to cope well with failure is also hugely important.
Not letting yourself get dragged down by things that, mostly, are out of your control.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I would say that I am a determined person who’s also sincere, open minded and fun.
Who do you look up to in business?
I have huge respect for local entrepreneurs who’ve worked hard and built successful businesses.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I believe in leading from the front and that no job is too small for anyone. Communication is key and showing colleagues that, when the time comes, you have no problem in making hard decisions and showing leadership. Respecting other people and their journeys is paramount and encouraging teamwork across the whole business.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
I am a huge supporter of local businesses so I would love to see the people of Northern Ireland get behind us even more than they already do.
What website or app could you not do without?
I love podcasts so my podcast app is my go-to.
What was the last book you read?
Tony Robbins, Awaken The Giant Within.
What car do you drive?
Land Rover Discovery
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I have three kids under the age of three, but that’s soon to grow by one more. So, in January 2022, I will have four kids under the age of four years old.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
I love to travel the world with my family.
