‘I was a little nervous when I started but I already knew some of the team, which made it easier,’ explains Imogen. ‘Joining at such a busy time meant that I was involved straight away, helping everyone and tackling the usual busy season deadlines.

‘The team are all qualified and were really happy to answer any questions I had and because we do regular catch ups on client work, I immediately understood what everyone was working on.’

As a manager, Imogen’s day-to-day role includes overseeing the funds accounting team, dealing with investor queries and ensuring the financial position of funds is up to date so clients can make investment decisions. HFL’s VC clients are typically very active, so the team is always busy, and no two days are the same.

Imogen, or Imy as she is known to her friends and colleagues, qualified as an accountant locally and went on to gain specific funds experience. She now puts that combined knowledge into action in HFL’s very fast-paced funds team.

‘There is a strong team spirit at HFL. We all sit together, and I feel like I can speak to anyone, regardless of their level or department. That means decisions are made quickly, in an open culture, and there is a really friendly dynamic across the whole office.’

Imogen is involved in setting up new funds and enjoys seeing the bigger picture. As she continues to progress at HFL she will be more involved in investment decisions. She has already taken on more management duties and is mentoring younger team members, with monthly check-ins to help them with their progression.

HFL’s hardworking funds team is willing to stay late to get the job done but takeaway pizza and an appreciation of everyone’s role means there is great team morale that is also fostered by lots of social activities.

‘There is always something going on,’ says Imogen. ‘We all love eating out; as well as evening activities we do a lunch every couple of months where we all mingle, sitting next to someone you don’t work with means we get to know everyone and understand how we all fit together.’

Socials aside, the team also undertake continual professional development and are encouraged to sign up to courses as well as internal training sessions.

‘My first four months at HFL have flown by but I feel like I have already been able to make an impact and I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of the year brings!’