Today we meet Sarah Looijenga, from Skipton International

How do you start your day?

My days start bright and early getting my two children up and ready for school. Usually making pancakes and looking for one lost school shoe!

What are the two top skills that will benefit someone working in finance?

Attention to detail and a desire to learn. Finance is much more varied than people may think.

What’s the most interesting thing about your work?

I work in our Post Offer Mortgage section, so by the time the paperwork comes to me, the mortgage has already been offered and underwritten. I really enjoy the customer interaction, and seeing their application come to fruition!

What are the benefits of the Channel Islands for the finance industry?

Guernsey is a leading international financial centre with a great reputation and excellent standards. We have attractive tax caps for individuals and a wonderful way of life.

What trends are you seeing?

People investing their money into property is increasing by the day. The UK expat mortgages we offer are growing at record rates!

How do the Channel Islands play a part in the global field?

When I think of finance, I think of high-rise offices in big cities! Guernsey offers easy routes and commutes by air and sea back to the mainland. Location, Economy and a wonderful quality of life.

What does the future of the finance industry look like?

If we keep following the current curves and trends, booming, successful and busy!

Who inspires you and why?

The answer to this has to be my Grandad. He was the person who gravitated our family to Guernsey, and showed me what hard work and dedication can achieve. He will always be my hero.

What advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time?

I have a few tongue in cheek answers, but I will just say this… You are never too old to start again, learn new things, and strive to be a happier you!

Tell us about your background and previous experience?

My lifetime ambition was always to be in the Mounted Police. I have always owned and ridden horses, and had always dreamed of becoming a Police Officer. I thought this combination would therefore be perfect, until I realised there wasn’t really a need for this role in Guernsey! I did however join the police for 3 years, just minus the horse!

My next job is my biggest achievement of all, and that’s being a mum to my two wonderful children Piers and Clara.

How do you measure success?

By the smile on my face and the wind in my hair! Success is about achieving a balanced and fulfilled life. The only person I am racing is myself.

Who do you most admire and why?

Maybe a soppy answer, but my mum. Her unwavering love and support is phenomenal. She is one in a million and I am very lucky to have her.

Click here to find out more about Skipton International.