When Dianne first joined, one of the things that stood out most was the nature of the business.
“I’ve always preferred smaller, family-owned companies, you can make decisions quickly and stay close to the people driving them.”
That sense of agility and accessibility remains a key part of Castlerock today, even as the business continues to grow.
Growing alongside the business
For Dianne, one of the most rewarding aspects of her time at Castlerock has been personal development.
“You’re given the opportunity to build your skills over time, and that’s something I’ve really valued.”
As the business has expanded, so too have the opportunities for individuals to broaden their roles and take on new challenges.
Adapting to change
Like many organisations, Castlerock experienced rapid change during COVID, particularly in how teams worked and collaborated.
“It was a turning point - we had to adapt quickly, and it accelerated how we approached technology and flexible working.”
Today, those changes have become part of everyday operations, supporting a more connected and flexible way of working.
An evolving workplace
Over the years, Dianne has also seen a shift in how the business thinks about people and culture.
“There’s now a stronger awareness of balancing work with life outside of it.”
As the company continues to grow, there is an ongoing focus on building a team that reflects a range of perspectives and experiences, something that continues to evolve over time.
A career that took an unexpected path
One of the most interesting parts of Dianne’s story is that her career didn’t begin in accounting.
“I actually started in marketing.”
After working in industrial marketing, during a time of major technological change, she later transitioned into accounts when returning to work.
That shift became a long-term career, highlighting how transferable skills and adaptability can shape new opportunities.
Advice for the next generation
When asked what advice she’d give to someone starting out, Dianne’s response was clear:
“Be an expert in something, but also be willing to think differently.”
In a rapidly changing world, she believes strong fundamentals combined with curiosity and critical thinking are key.
“Understand the basics, question what you’re seeing, and don’t be afraid to approach things from a different angle.”
Final thoughts
When asked to reflect on her 16 years at Castlerock, Dianne’s perspective is simple.
Careers don’t always follow a straight line. Skills build over time. And often, the most valuable growth comes from being open to change.
