Can you tell us about your career journey and what led you to your current role?
After graduating from Cambridge University in 2009, I moved to Guernsey and started my Trust and Company administration career. My early experiences really shaped my understanding of fiduciary responsibilities. However, after a few years, I wanted to be more client-facing, and I joined Network Insurance & Financial Planning in 2012, quickly completing my Chartered Institute of Insurance exams to qualify as a Financial Adviser.
I later joined the Board of Network and have acted as an Executive Director ever since, as well as still acting as a Financial Adviser. I now oversee many elements of the business and am involved with strategy and operational decisions across all aspects of the company. I recently undertook the Certificate and Diploma in Company Direction with the IOD, helping me further understand my responsibilities and strengths as a Director before becoming a Chartered Director in March 2025.
Have you ever faced moments of self-doubt or burnout?
When I was at University, I had a severe panic attack during my second-year exams, because of self-doubt. I have since managed my mental health and stress levels using various strategies, and I can manage very high-stress days without impact. However, exams will always be my kryptonite, and despite my past successes, I get crippling exam anxiety.
What have been the biggest challenges in your career as a working mother?
Firstly, just juggling the demands; I often feel I’ve never had enough time at work and certainly not enough time at home with the children. It’s great we have technology so we can catch up in the evenings, but it means less ‘downtime’, and as someone who needs my sleep, this is always a sacrifice.
The second challenge is ‘Mum Guilt’ for not being at school pick up every day and sometimes missing bedtimes due to evening events. I try to make it up to them in other ways, and as the children get older, the guilt is lessening. I have to remind myself they are learning other lessons from me, and I’m hopefully a good role model for how to work hard.
What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?
Hmm, tricky question! Being asked to speak at an International Women’s Day event this year felt pretty special, and I really enjoyed planning and giving my speech.
I am also delighted to be a Chartered Director and look forward to exploring where this may take me in the future.
“Turning up 15 minutes earlier to see the children can make a huge difference to their day, and, ultimately, our long-term relationships.”
Rebecca Goater
What advice would you give other women building successful careers while raising a family?
I don’t think I’m in any position to give advice – we’re all just doing the best we can, right?
One thing it took me years to learn though is to remember that if I stay 15 minutes later at work, I may achieve one more task but it won’t make much difference in the long term.
However, turning up 15 minutes earlier to see the children can make a huge difference to their day, and, ultimately, our long-term relationships. Naturally, it doesn’t always work, but I do try and remind myself that not everything is critical.
What’s next for you and the company, and what are your future goals or aspirations?
As a company, we are in a period of high growth and are focusing on capitalising on this whilst continuing to offer the highest possible service standards, which are a key part of our company strategy and values.
Personally, now that I am a Chartered Director, I have joined the NED Development programme here in Guernsey and hope to increase my experience as a board member through this.
I remain committed to Network and our growth strategy accordingly, but I am keen to see what new external opportunities may be available going forwards.