Changing my mind and joining Highlands was one of the best decisions I've ever made.
After leaving Highlands in 2022, Petra moved into the finance sector and quickly began building on the foundations she had developed during college. Today, she works at Hawksford in a corporate role, managing a client entity connected to social housing in the UK. Much of her work centres on ensuring a large property remains compliant with the Building Safety Act, and rather than seeing finance as purely numbers and paperwork, she finds purpose in knowing the decisions and processes she helps manage ultimately affect real people and communities.
Her curiosity and willingness to embrace new ideas have also helped her establish herself within the industry. One of the projects that contributed to her Corporate Services Rising Star recognition was helping colleagues adopt AI tools, and by exploring new ways to create internal guidance and improve efficiencies, Petra was able to demonstrate how emerging technology could support everyday work across the business.
Speaking on her role at Hawksford, she is thankful for the opportunities it provides and is ambitious about where it might take her next. She credits the company for providing her with the continuous support to develop professionally, as well as supporting her with the Rising Star nomination and voting process. But she is equally passionate about maintaining a life outside work. A keen CrossFit enthusiast, Petra regularly competes alongside her partner Ciaran and spends much of her free time outdoors, whether that's hiking, travelling or exploring nature. She is also preparing for a six-month trip across South America, including visits to Machu Picchu and Patagonia. For her, success isn't just about professional achievements, it's about creating a life that feels balanced, fulfilling and authentic.
