Eight questions with... Evan O’Donnell, Chartered Star 2024

Evan O'Donnell, Chartered Star 2024, shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of learning from mistakes, and his aspirations for continued growth

Five years ago, where did you think you would be now? Have you lived up to your own expectations?

Five years ago, I had just commenced my final year at university. I had envisioned myself in a stable and fulfilling career, one where I could use my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact. I imagined that, by now, I would have passed all my exams, gained significant experience and provided clients with quality deliverables. 

Looking back, I can safely say that I have lived up to those expectations and surpassed them! I have become qualified as a Chartered Accountant having gained an invaluable training contract on the Assurance Team at PwC Ireland. I have secured an exciting role within Finance in Avery Dennison and I am the current Chartered Star, which I am absolutely delighted with! 

I am looking forward to representing both my profession and country on at international level in Canada later this month.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career?

The biggest challenge of my career as a Chartered Accountant has been balancing the rigorous demands of professional exams with the tight deadlines of audit engagements. 
Juggling intense study schedules alongside assurance client work required a level of time management and project planning. This challenge forced me to improve these skills significantly. 

I became more disciplined with my time, better at prioritising tasks, and more adaptable to changing circumstances.

What do you wish you had known earlier in life?

One thing I wish I had learned earlier in life is that making mistakes, both in life and at work, is not only okay but essential for growth. 

I used to fear failure, believing it was a sign of weakness or incompetence. However, I’ve come to understand that mistakes are invaluable learning opportunities. Each failure is like practice for success, teaching resilience, adaptability and problem-solving. 

Embracing mistakes allows you to grow stronger, refine your skills and approach challenges with a more informed perspective. 

Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about learning from it and continuing to move forward.

Where do you see yourself this time next year?

This time next year, I see myself continuing to grow in my current role with Avery Dennison, taking on more leadership responsibilities and perhaps exploring new areas within the finance sector. 

I am eager to further develop my expertise in areas like financial strategy and risk management, and I hope to contribute even more to the success of my firm. 

Additionally, I am considering opportunities to mentor younger professionals, as I believe that sharing knowledge and experience is vital to the profession's future.

Who inspires you, personally and professionally?

Personally and professionally, I am inspired by people who demonstrate resilience, integrity and are always willing to share their knowledge. 

Personally, I look up to my father. My dad has not only achieved so much in his career but his morals, love for his family and his incredible ability to put everyone else’s needs above his own has made him my role model my entire life! 

Professionally, I look up to Barry Doyle, Chartered Accountants Ireland President. Barry is the youngest-ever President of the Institute. Barry’s humbleness in his accomplishments is admirable, his grit and determination are truly inspirational. He is also a marathon runner – his talents know no bounds!

How has being a Chartered Accountant changed your life?

Becoming a Chartered Accountant has significantly changed my life. The versatility of this career has opened doors to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise, provided me with a sense of huge accomplishment and given me a solid foundation on which to build my career. 

Being a Chartered Accountant also brings a level of respect and credibility in our industry, which has been invaluable in establishing trust with clients and colleagues. 

If you weren't a Chartered Accountant, what do you think you'd be doing?

If I wasn’t a Chartered Accountant, I believe I would be working in a field related to education or mentoring. 

Coming from a family of teachers (in both primary and secondary school) and always having a passion for helping others learn and grow, I think I would find great satisfaction in a role that allows me to teach, guide or influence young people in their life and on their professional journeys.

What advice do you have for those who will soon qualify as Chartered Accountants?

Keep your head down with exams, plough through them and persevere. You will forget the gruelling hours of study put in, but you won’t forget your qualification – it will all be worth it once you become an ACA! 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions – it is the only way to learn. 

Build your network and don’t underestimate the value of soft skills such as communication and leadership – they are just as important as technical knowledge.