From South Africa to Jersey – An Interview with Odelia

In December 2023, Odelia, a qualified auditor, made the leap from South Africa to join a Big Four Firm in Jersey. Now, ten months into her new life, she shares her experiences—the highs, the challenges, and the advice she has for other accountants thinking about making a similar move.

Q: How have you found living in Jersey so far?

Odelia: “It’s been good, though quite an adjustment moving away from home. I moved during the busy season, so that added a challenge, but overall, I’ve settled in well. Jersey is incredibly safe compared to South Africa. In the summer, the whole island comes alive, and there’s so much to do. I’ve loved exploring the different bays, going hiking, and taking long walks. The buses here are really good, but honestly, you only need them when you want to explore the island otherwise everything else is walking distance”

Q: What has your experience been like working for your new firm?

Odelia: “It’s been going well! I’ve been given more responsibility, and even though some of the tasks are new to me and take more effort and time, I’ve enjoyed the challenge. The firm has a really good support system. Each of us is assigned a councillor to guide us, and mine was already in place when I arrived. My next promotion is up for review in March, and we’ve discussed what I need to achieve by then.

I’ve also been working with a big real estate client. It’s a different area for me, as I came from an insurance background, so there’s been a learning curve. But the great thing is that now I really know the client well.”

 

Q: What drew you to Jersey and this firm in the first place?

Odelia: “In my previous job, I worked with my firms Guernsey office, so I knew a little bit about the Channel Islands. Initially, I wanted to work in the UK, but after looking into the Channel Islands, I realized it offered many of the same benefits while being a bit more laid-back and less overwhelming. The interview process with them went smoothly, and the interviewers were really nice, which made the decision easier. I’ve also met quite a few South Africans on the island which is really nice”

 

Q: Has the move lived up to your expectations?

Odelia: “Honestly, I didn’t have many expectations because this was my first time living outside South Africa. But Jersey has been great! The people are really friendly and helpful, and the island is so safe. It’s been nice not needing a car—everything is within walking distance, and the public transport is good if I do need it.”

 

Q: Have you found the work environment at the firm to be supportive?

Odelia: “Yes, definitely. The firm has great training programs, and their support has been amazing. I learn more on the job and they’ve been really good at helping me get hands-on experience with their systems. Looking back, I can see how much I’ve grown in the last year. I’ve been given a lot of opportunity to grow and it feels good to see that progress.”

Q: Have you had a chance to travel much since moving to Jersey?

Odelia: “Not as much as I’d hoped. I had to go back to South Africa in July for a family emergency and spent a month there. The firm was really flexible about it. They provide 20 days to work from your home country per year, so I worked remotely and used some leave. I’m planning to go back home for Christmas, so I still have that to look forward to.”

 

Q: How easy was it to find accommodation?

Odelia: “I did quite a bit of research before I arrived, but a the apartments dont stay long on the market so I didn’t have too many options given I arrived in December. My mum came with me to help, and the firm gave me extra time in temporary accommodation because I arrived close to Christmas. My apartment is small, but I don’t mind—it’s a nine-minute walk to the office, so it’s very convenient.”

Q: What’s your advice for accountants considering a move abroad?

Odelia: “If you’re moving alone, be mentally prepared to adjust. I’m quite introverted, so it was challenging at first. But you need to put yourself out there. Joining the local church group helped me meet new people, and speaking up at work built my confidence. It’s important to initiate conversations and build those social connections—it gets easier with time, and it’s such a valuable experience.

It’s also a good idea to speak to someone who’s already made the move. Think Global Recruitment introduced me to another South African who had moved to Jersey, and she was so helpful. She answered all my questions and even checked in on me after I’d settled in.”

 

Q: Would you say the move has been worth it?

Odelia: “Absolutely. It’s been a big learning curve, but I’ve grown so much, both personally and professionally. I’m more confident in my abilities and in myself. Looking back, it was a great decision, and I would definitely encourage others to make the move if they’re thinking about it.”

 

Q: How did you find the experience working with Alicia and Think Global Recruitment?

Odelia: “Alicia was really helpful throughout the whole process. If she didn’t know the answers to my questions, she’d go out of her way to find them. She even introduced me to one of my friends here, who has been such a great support. After I moved, Alicia followed up to make sure I was settling in okay. I’m really grateful for the help and support I received.”

Odelia’s journey highlights the challenges and rewards that come with moving overseas. While there were adjustments to be made, she’s embraced the opportunity, grown in her career, and built a new life in Jersey. Her story is a testament to the fact that, with the right mindset and support, an international move can be an incredible opportunit