Reflecting on her early career, Nicky recalls her start as a financial auditor at Grant Thornton. “I started my AAT and then did my ACA, basically going into different businesses and auditing their numbers,” she explains. After further experience at Mazars, Nicky moved to MSP Capital in 2017, initially on a two-month secondment. “MSP was a client at the time, and they reached out and said, ‘We really want you to come and work for MSP as our management accountant,’” she recalls. By January 2018, she had officially joined the company, joining a team of only three in the finance department. It was when Nicky became Group Finance Manager in 2019 that she began to expand the team and work with the leadership team on the strategic funding for the business.
Nicky Hollamby, Finance Director at MSP Capital, sat on the chesterfield this month, to talk us through her career journey, and a sneak peak into what she gets up to when not at work. Over the last few years, Nicky has held four different roles at the company, all within the finance department, but with varying responsibilities.
She has built a career marked by dedication, strategic vision, and commitment to the company’s financial growth. Having joined MSP Capital in 2017 on secondment, Nicky quickly added value, transitioning from Management Accountant to Finance Director within just a few years. Her role now involves overseeing the financial operations of the business and contributing to the company’s capital strategy.
Starting out
Nicky’s leadership at MSP Capital has continued to be instrumental in expanding the finance team and shaping the company’s financial strategies. Having built a team that she trusts, she is now able to focus on the broader direction of the business, relying on her team to handle the day-to-day financial operations. “My role now mainly entails strategically thinking about the capital structure of the business, making sure we have enough money to lend,” she says, highlighting the importance of forward planning and growth management.
Nicky credits MSP Capital’s supportive culture and collaborative environment as key reasons for her long tenure. “Even though we have a hierarchy in the business, it doesn’t feel hierarchical. Everyone can chat to everyone, and that’s a really unique thing to have,” she observes. The company’s approachable and friendly atmosphere has allowed her to thrive, particularly as her role evolved from day-to-day operations into more strategic oversight.
Beyond Finance
Beyond her responsibilities at MSP Capital, Nicky leads an active and fulfilling life outside the office. A self-described sports enthusiast, she dedicates much of her time to playing badminton and pickleball. “I play county badminton, probably three times a week,” she notes, emphasising her passion for staying active. More recently, she has discovered a love for pickleball, even competing internationally. “I played my first international pickleball tournament a couple of weeks ago,” she adds with enthusiasm.
Her interest in sports doesn’t stop there. Nicky has also taken up paddle tennis and enjoys getting out on the water, reflecting the coastal lifestyle of her home in Poole.
At work, Nicky also ensures to get involved in other areas of the company – heading up the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) committee, a role that allows her to contribute to company’s journey towards a more sustainable future.
Nicky’s well-rounded approach to both work and personal life illustrates her commitment to balance and success. Her leadership at MSP Capital and her active lifestyle outside of work highlight her dedication, not only to professional excellence but also to personal growth and wellbeing. As she continues to guide the company’s financial strategies, Nicky remains an integral part of MSP Capital’s success story.
