When Cassandra decided she wanted more from her accounting career, she wasn’t just thinking about a new job; she was thinking about a whole new life. A qualified Chartered Accountant with Big Four experience at a Big Four Firm in Zimbabwe, Cassandra had spent several years building her expertise. But she longed for international exposure, the opportunity to work in a stable economic environment, and the chance to apply accounting standards in a more consistent, global context.
“I wanted to gain international exposure and apply everything I had studied and practised in a country with a more stable economy,”
she explains. That desire sparked a journey that would take her across continents and land her on a sunny Mediterranean island she hadn’t previously considered: Malta.
Discovering Malta and the Right Opportunity
Malta wasn’t on Cassandra’s radar at first. But when she connected with Tyson at Think Global Recruitment, new possibilities opened up. Tyson introduced her to a range of options and recommended the firm in Malta due to her existing familiarity with the firm’s methodology.
“I didn’t have Malta in mind, but Tyson suggested it, and it made a lot of sense, especially because the firm in Malta had an opportunity that matched my background,”
she says. With coaching and support from Tyson, Cassandra aced her interview and accepted the role.
The Move: Fears, Flights, and Fresh Starts
Moving overseas for the first time was daunting. “I was scared; I’d only ever been away from home for three months before,” Cassandra admits. But with help from both the firm’s Malta HR team and Think Global Recruitment, her visa and relocation process went smoothly.
“Tyson helped where he could, and the firm in Malta provided everything I needed, right down to accommodation tips. I didn’t face any major challenges,” she says. That said, she still booked a return ticket home for December, just to see family again. Daily communication with loved ones helped ease the transition.
A Familiar Firm, A New Way of Working
Joining the firm in a new country was both familiar and fresh. The audit methodology remained the same, but the pace and client engagement style were new.
“There were differences in how we approach audits, especially the deadlines and how information is documented and shared. It’s been an adjustment, but I’m learning,” she shares. While most of her colleagues and managers have been supportive, one engagement was more challenging, highlighting the importance of proactive communication, which she’s now addressing.
Living the Maltese Life
Outside of work, Cassandra has embraced Malta’s lifestyle. Initially worried about housing, she successfully relocated to a shared flat with two fellow Zimbabwean colleagues. The cost? €480 per month (plus modest shared utility bills).
She’s built a social circle through the firm’s African community, her church, and multicultural work contacts from the Philippines to Pakistan. The sunny weather and rich culture helped, too. “I love going to the beach on Sundays. It helps me unwind,” she says.
Her unexpected cultural shock? “Cheese in everything!” she laughs. “I had to adjust; I’ve never been a fan, but I’m getting used to it.
The Best Part? Travel and Growth
“The most rewarding thing has been travel,” Cassandra says. She’s already visited Poland and is planning a trip to Greece. “Living in Malta makes it easy to explore Europe.”
Professionally, she’s thriving. She’s learning a new industry and applying her skills in a new setting, broadening her horizons for future opportunities.
Cassandra’s Advice to Others
If you’re considering an international move, Cassandra has one clear message: “Go for it.”
She’s already recommended Malta and Think Global Recruitment to other Zimbabwean accountants. And if she could give her past self any advice? “I wish I’d made the move earlier.”
Quickfire with Cassandra
Favourite Maltese food? Pastizzi (a savoury pastry with peas and other fillings)
What do you miss most about Zimbabwe? Family.
What don’t you miss? The working conditions.
Picked up a local habit or phrase? Still learning how to say “good morning” in Maltese!
Go-to coffee spot? Starbucks.
What’s Malta like in one word? “Rewarding.”
Inspired by Cassandra’s story?
If you’re a qualified accountant curious about working abroad, connect with Think Global Recruitment to explore your options, just like Cassandra did.
