The Post: Accounts Manager at Print Library
The Post Holder: Cameron Thompson
Cameron Thompson explains why he changed career direction, moving from pharmacy into the print industry.
Give a brief outline of your career to date.
I started as Accounts Manager for Print Library in January 2024. After leaving school I had intended to go into pharmacy, but after my university studies I decided to go in a different direction and into the exciting world of the print and packaging industry. I had previously worked at Print Library on a part-time basis, on the factory floor, which gave me a good knowledge of the business. A passion for print runs in the family, with my father co-founding Print Library in 2001 and when the opportunity arose to get more involved in the business and the financial side of the company, I jumped at the chance.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Definitely maths.
Did you go on to further/higher education, if so what did you study and where?
I went to Queen’s University Belfast where I pursued Pharmacy. The course, while very intensive, was very interesting and enjoyable but ultimately, I had my eyes on a more financial and business-orientated role. So, while I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree last year, I am shortly going back to study for an Accounting Technicians Ireland diploma, which will hopefully provide me with greater independence and confidence within my current role.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed? Are there alternative routes into the job?
While I have a Bachelor’s degree, a university education isn’t essential for the role, but a passion for the business and a keen eye for numbers and data is a must.
What are the main personal skills your job requires?
Organisation is key for my role. We produce packaging for multiple clients on a daily basis so as well as managing the varying activities for each customer. I am also handling the payroll, sorting VAT returns and other elements key to managing the financial side of the business. It’s vital to be on top of everything at all times.
What does a typical day entail?
The first thing I do when I enter the office at 9am is check the company bank accounts, then my emails to see if there is anything immediate to action from suppliers, customer job requests or payment queries. I find writing a to-do list is very helpful for keeping all my actions timely. Another job that I take on within my role in Print Library is managing the production line for sales reps so after dealing with the business admin, I will go on to the factory floor and help with the procurement side of the business. In the afternoon, I will handle any personal admin I have and even bring my textbooks into the office to get some studying done in preparation for my upcoming course.
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
My favourite part of my job is the feeling when we get a big job request or kicking off work with a new client. It’s also really rewarding to see our customers happy with the finished result – and then physically seeing the business moving in the right direction through our accounts. I relish the challenges the role poses. We are a growing company in a competitive industry, and I love playing a role in taking the company forward, delivering for our customers and winning new business.
Why is what you do important?
Accounts management is vital for helping any company run effectively. Without me monitoring the business figures, working closely with the directors to keep track of the customer accounts and ensuring we make timely VAT payments and, of course, the payroll, we would have very unhappy employees and clients.
Describe your ideal day off.
I love the outdoors and any opportunity to discover new places and explore is right up my street. My ideal day off would be going on a long car road trip with friends, maybe somewhere new down south, and being back fresh and ready for work the next day.
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