At WDS, we believe in fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace where talent thrives. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible women within our firm who exemplify leadership, resilience, and ambition. One such leader is Elizabeth Graydon, Senior Manager of our Elland office.
Elizabeth’s journey with WDS is one of perseverance, growth, and leadership. From joining the firm through an acquisition to stepping into a management role, she has embraced every challenge with determination. In this interview, she shares insights into her career progression, the lessons she has learned, and her perspective on balancing leadership with family life.
Professional Journey
Can you tell us about your journey with WDS and how you transitioned from accountant to Senior Manager of the Elland office?
When WDS acquired our previous firm, it was a turning point for me. Before that, internal promotions were limited, and had WDS not stepped in, I’m not sure where my career would have gone.
WDS brought opportunities, trust, and a culture that allows people to grow and flourish. The leadership team genuinely supports you, pushing you to be better than you were yesterday.
When staff members left, I saw an opportunity to step up. It was a big leap into a role I had never been exposed to before, but I was eager to learn and develop—I wanted it. My role evolved over time, and it took dedication and patience to navigate that transition.
Taking on the role of office manager in 2022, what were some of the most significant challenges you faced during the transition?
Managing people. I initially thought it would be straightforward—I assumed others would think and work like I do. But I quickly learned that everyone has their own ways of working, their own needs, and their own preferred methods of communication. Adapting to support each person individually was a learning curve.
Another challenge was creating inclusion. A strong team isn’t just about individuals—it’s about bringing people together. I had a team with different ambitions; some were eager to progress, while others were happy staying in their routine. Uniting everyone into a cohesive team took time and effort, but it was key to building a positive work environment.
How did you navigate the period of staff changes, and what lessons did you learn during that time?
I learned that people will make the decisions that are right for them, and no matter how much you might want someone to stay, sometimes change is best for both parties.
Staff changes can be tough, impacting both clients and the remaining team. But through it all, we’ve emerged stronger, and we’re now in a fantastic position to move forward.
What has been your proudest moment in your role so far?
Building a strong, ambitious team that genuinely wants to grow and achieve goals together. That’s what leadership is about—bringing people together and seeing them succeed.
Leadership and Challenges
What do you think makes a great leader in today’s workplace, particularly in the accountancy sector?
- Clear communication. Accountancy is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial that staff understand changes and expectations.
- Knowledge-sharing. A team thrives when everyone is equipped with the right information.
- Support. Being there when your team needs you, guiding them, and ensuring they feel valued.
How do you keep yourself motivated during challenging times, and how do you inspire your team to stay positive and focused?
Accountancy comes with tight deadlines, and it’s rare to have a quiet period. The key to managing this is planning ahead, staying organised, and working as a team.
We face challenges, but they don’t last forever. You learn from mistakes, you adapt, and you keep going. I also believe in the power of patience—it helps maintain a positive mindset.
Work-Life Balance
As a mum and a senior manager, how do you balance the demands of your professional and personal life?
Organisation is everything. Planning ahead and being realistic about commitments at both work and home is crucial. You can’t be in two places at once, so managing expectations is key.
I also believe in keeping work and home life separate to ensure I can give my best to both.
What advice would you give to other working parents striving to excel in their careers while managing family responsibilities?
- Dedicate quality time to your family—it goes by fast, and you can’t get it back.
- Use a family diary to stay organised, plan ahead for school holidays, and invest in reliable childcare (I’m lucky to have the support of my parents).
- Take time for yourself, too. You’re not just an employee and a parent—you need moments for you.
International Women’s Day
What does International Women’s Day mean to you, and why do you think it’s important to celebrate it in the workplace?
It’s a chance to celebrate us—not just as parents, employees, or partners, but as women. It’s inclusive, empowering, and reminds us of the value we bring to the workplace.
Women contribute so much to businesses, and recognising and celebrating that is important.
Who has inspired you most in your career, and how have they shaped your approach to work and leadership?
There are so many women who have inspired me—colleagues, clients, and leaders.
For me, any woman who has excelled in her career—whether by earning qualifications, securing promotions, or overcoming challenges—is an inspiration.
I take something valuable from every woman I meet, whether it’s Julie stepping up to speak at a conference, Katherine handling a tough client call, or Claire taking on a new area of work outside her comfort zone. These moments of courage and growth inspire me daily.
Looking Ahead
What are your goals for the Elland office in the coming year, and how do you plan to achieve them?
As a team, we have clear objectives, and our aim is to exceed them this year.
We have regular meetings to track our progress, make collective decisions, and support one another. I also want to see individual growth within the team—whether that’s learning new skills, passing exams, or taking on new challenges. I’ll be there to support them every step of the way.
What message would you like to share with other women aspiring to take on leadership roles in their careers?
Go for it, never doubt yourself. Life is all about learning and leadership is no different.
Supporting Women in Leadership
At WDS, we are committed to creating an environment where women can thrive in leadership roles. We provide mentoring, professional development, and opportunities for career progression, ensuring that our female leaders receive the support they need to excel.
Our leadership team, including Managing Director Julie Young, actively champions women in business. From implementing flexible working policies to fostering an inclusive culture, we recognise the importance of enabling women to balance career ambitions with personal commitments. Elizabeth’s story is a testament to this, showing how the right support system and opportunities can help talented professionals reach their full potential.
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate all the women in our firm and beyond who continue to inspire, lead, and break barriers.
