Hello Christel! Tell us about your professional background.
I started my career in audit at BDO & Co, where I had the opportunity to work across several sectors, including hospitality, aviation, energy production and the manufacturing industry. This experience allowed me to evolve in varied environments, gain a strong understanding of the operations and financial challenges specific to each sector, and meet some wonderful professionals along the way.
After more than ten years in audit, I wanted to find a better balance between my professional and family life. That is how I joined Mahogany Shopping Promenade in November 2021 as an Accountant. This experience was my first immersion into the world of retail. I was able to discover everything that happens behind the scenes in the operations of a shopping centre. I also joined a dynamic environment that never really stops, as the centre follows the rhythm of its activities seven days a week.
Later, in 2023, I was entrusted with the accounting management of The Strand, an environment that was more familiar to me thanks to my background in audit. This year, I was promoted to Senior Accountant, an evolution that reflects the trust the company has placed in me. I am very grateful for it.
Tell us about your role at Novaterra and how it has evolved.
Today, my role mainly consists of ensuring the financial and accounting follow-up of the two entities under my responsibility, while supporting day-to-day operations. This includes financial reporting, budget monitoring, performance analysis, assessing the financial risks of new tenants, as well as collaborating with the different operational teams.
Since joining Novaterra, my role has evolved significantly. At first, I was mainly focused on accounting aspects. Over time, I had the opportunity to become more involved in decision-making, bring a more analytical perspective and contribute to improving certain processes.
Working in demanding environments such as retail and real estate has also allowed me to develop a better understanding of the business as a whole and adopt a more strategic approach in my work.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? And what are the challenges?
What I appreciate most about my work is the feeling of contributing concretely to the smooth running of operations and to the client experience. Even though accounting often works behind the scenes, our role is essential to the proper functioning of the company. I also believe it is important to remain curious and understand the operations, because finance and operations must always work in harmony.
Every day is different, and that makes the profession particularly enriching. When it is time to roll up my sleeves, I do not hesitate to lend a hand, whether it is helping with decoration or even handling a client complaint. There are always unexpected situations, and it is important to show flexibility and adaptability.
As for the challenges, I believe the most important one is being able to juggle priorities, deadlines and unexpected situations, while maintaining a high level of rigour and precision. It is also essential to constantly adapt to the evolution of the business and to new expectations.
What does being part of the Novateam look like on a daily basis?
Above all, it means being part of one team, where everyone contributes to Novaterra’s success. It also means evolving in a dynamic, collaborative and human working environment, where respect and integrity play an essential role every day.
What I particularly appreciate is the diversity of profiles and professions around us. This richness allows us to continuously learn from others and gain a better understanding of the company’s different operations.
