Q & A with Michael Courtney, Chief Finance Officer and Executive Manager Corporate Services, Gateways Support Services
In this month’s Q&A we hear from Michael Courtney. He shares his commitment to the ‘for purpose’ sector, career motivators, coping with managing a team during lockdowns and love of Game of Thrones. Michael was placed in his current role by Callum Paterson, Gembridge, and began in August 2021.
Michael Courtney, newly appointed Chief Finance Officer & Executive Manager Corporate Services at Gateways Services
What's the best thing about your current role?
The opportunity to work with some amazing people, leading a diverse range of functions and making a difference to the lives of our clients.
What was your previous career/s and what motivated you to move into the 'for purpose' sector?
I have always worked in Finance related fields; I have gained a vast amount of experience over a 20+ year career and wanted to utilise my skills and experience in a sector which has meaning and purpose.
How do you stay focussed and motivated?
Keeping the client at the centre of attention, knowing that if execute my job well, the client will receive the best possible value and service available to them and that the business will do so in a sustainable way.
What is your proudest accomplishment or career highlight?
Becoming a dad to two very cheeky boys, and achieving FCPA status.
What are your key goals for 2021?
Learn a new business, make a difference through my work and to develop my new team.
What is the best career advice you've received?
Three things - It’s ok to fail – learn from it, find your passion and back yourself.
What is the key career advice you give to others?
Don’t sit and wait for someone to tap you on the shoulder, you make your own destiny. Develop your team to the point they can replace/exceed you.
If you could invite 3 guests to dinner, who would they be?
My wife, Elon Musk and George R.R. Martin.
Did you learn something new or manage major pivots during lockdown?
Leading teams remotely can be challenging and moving to a model of work focussing on output instead of presentism
If Michael could do anything for a day… to be an astronaut.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
Kauai, Hawaii
What did you dream of being when you were a child?
A fighter pilot
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
An astronaut
What is your favourite movie / book?
Secret Life of Walter Mitty / A Game of Thrones