This week, we took a trip to our Finance Department and had a lovely chat with our Finance Assistant, Mrs King, who joined in March this year.
What does a day in the life of Mrs King entail?
It starts off with me getting through the traffic from Reading to Shiplake on public transport ,which can sometimes be a bit tiresome. Each day differs from the next and some days can be busier than others. My main priority is to ensure payroll is run on time and accurately. I compile the data ready for each payroll, checking changes in staff circumstances and deductions. I also ensure PAYE deductions and pension contributions are paid over on time so that the College does not incur any charges or fines.
Where has your career taken you before joining Shiplake College?
Before joining Shiplake I worked at a company called BG for 23 years; unfortunately my role was made redundant when it was taken over by Shell. I enjoyed redundancy for two years before feeling the need to look for work again and within two weeks of joining the agency, I was offered the position of Payroll Assistant at Shiplake College!
What made you want to work in finance?
Growing up my dad wanted me to be a nurse and I wanted to be a secretary. However, when I left school I signed up to an agency and the first job they gave me was working in finance and I’ve not looked back since! I started off with Purchase Ledger, then Cashiers and I have been in Payroll for over 20 years.
We have heard that you love to travel - what is your favourite place and why?
My favourite place will always be Barbados as that is where my parents originated from. My parents retired back there over 10 years ago, and I go home as often as I can, particularly to ensure my mother is okay since my father passed away two years ago. What is there not to like about Barbados! Warm sand under your feet, warm blue sea, sun all day long, rum and also my family.
You are a big fan of Chelsea Football Club, what made you want to support them?
Now I’m going to show my age... when I was little I supported Leeds and Chelsea, but couldn’t decide which team to support until the FA Cup Final in 1970 when both teams had to face each other. I said whoever won the cup would be the team I supported and it was Chelsea who won.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love watching soap programmes, which I have to watch when my husband is not at home! I enjoy shopping and meeting up with old friends and having a good natter.
What does the future hold for Mrs King?
Whichever comes first - me winning the lottery or retirement – in my case it’s more likely to be retirement.
