After 20 years with the firm Insolvency Business Development Associate Director Sam Street’s career is a great example of finding a role you love and making it your own. Sam shares the pivotal moments that have impacted her career and how she has developed a unique career within the firm. This is Sam’s story, in her own words.

My proudest achievement throughout my whole career is helping an elderly gentlemen get all his life savings back by using my own contacts in the industry and innovation. This was very personal to me as he contacted me directly and he trusted me to do the best for him. This wasn’t a situation where our firm could be engaged on a case, however I saw a way I could help him together with the help of a lawyer. He didn’t have to pay a thing and what we achieved for him was life changing. It was a real feel-good moment for me personally, and professionally as it was through my work and contacts that I was able to help him. Once the firm heard what we’d achieved I was asked to speak at a partner conference about the work I do and how we as a firm can make a difference if we go beyond our everyday role. 

For me, 22 years into my career with the firm, it’s the opportunities within this area of work which keep it interesting. Much of my time in the team has been more about business development, leading projects and bringing our client offerings to fruition.

A notable example of my work is when I was involved in assembling a claimant group for action against the truck manufacturers involved in the Truck Cartel case. This required extensive collaboration with various teams within our firm who had clients owning or leasing large fleets of trucks. I had to gain a sound knowledge of the case and immerse myself in a sector that was previously unfamiliar to me. Through this process, I became quite the expert on different truck types!

Navigating periods of change

Over the course of my career here I have witnessed various periods of change, evolution and growth. I have never lost the enjoyment for my roles. I always focus on how I can thrive by leveraging my unique skills and qualities. When opportunities aren't immediately available, I take the initiative to create them. This proactive approach has allowed me to continuously find fulfilment and excitement in my work. 

I strongly believe that this is an exhilarating period for the firm. The expansion of services, strategic partnerships, and the firm's increasing global reach offer unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. International capability and reach are increasingly essential for new and existing clients. The work I already undertake with our offshore member firms in collaborating and seeking out new opportunities, will advance significantly as we continue to enhance our approach across borders.

A unique career

Being so niche in what I do, there isn’t an obvious career path to follow, and every career leap or promotion had been achieved through carving out my own path. I have had several coaches and mentors throughout my career, and it has been incredibly beneficial in helping me focus and consider the direction I want my career to take. The insight I gained from these leaders who mentored me has been invaluable. I have asked them about their motivations and how they win work, which may not have been the typical coaching process, but it has provided me with key learning experiences that have had a significant impact on my career development.

Realising my worth and the fact that life offers up stepping stones of opportunities rather than a fixed path was a defining moment for me as well as being somewhat niche in every role I have taken on. I have always been happy to make that difficult phone call, navigate that conference and build new contacts, as well as provide ideas to partners without fear of how they will land. My background in securing cases has meant I have had to be a good negotiator and promote both Grant Thornton and my unique brand.

I love having the opportunity to lead projects and initiatives, and I also enjoy being a voice through our GTOffshore LinkedIn page. I have been afforded so many opportunities to grow and develop that I really can’t see another firm coming close to our development programme and I know the grass isn’t greener for me.  

I often find myself wondering where I would be now if Grant Thornton hadn't provided me with the opportunity to drive my career and support my ambitions. I am truly grateful for that.