Celebrating Women in Leadership:
Fiona's Journey in Finance

This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on women making a difference across our business. Fiona Dall, Finance Controller at Scottish Water Horizons, is one of those leaders – someone who has grown her career by learning from experience and the people around her, while helping others do the same.

Originally from Perth, Fiona knew from a young age that finance was the direction she wanted to take. Numbers came naturally, and accountancy offered a path to a long-term career. After university, she qualified through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) and began her career in private practice in her hometown.

But it didn’t take long for her interests to evolve.

“I quickly realised that auditing and tax returns weren’t where my passion lay. I was far more interested in how organisations operate day to day and in providing financial insight that supports real business decisions.”

That curiosity led her into industry, joining Scottish Water in the early 2000s in a management accounts role, a move that would shape her future career and leadership journey.

Learning Along the Way

Fiona credits much of her development to the people she’s worked with over the years:

“I genuinely believe I’ve learned something from every manager, colleague and team I’ve been part of – whether that’s different leadership styles or technical financial expertise.”

Working across different areas of Scottish Water and Horizons has helped her build a deep understanding of how the organisations operate, while also creating strong professional relationships.

“Those relationships have been invaluable. Whenever I’ve needed advice or support, there have always been people I could turn to.”

Her experience working “on the coal face” has also shaped how she leads today.

“It means that as I’ve moved into more senior roles, I understand the challenges my team face and the support they need to do their best work.”

Finding Her Leadership Style

One of the biggest transitions in Fiona’s career came when she moved from delivering work herself to leading others.

“That shift isn’t easy – especially when you’re used to being hands-on – but it taught me the importance of trusting people and guiding rather than doing.”

Respect and approachability remain central to how she leads.

“I’ve always tried to treat people with respect and be supportive and approachable. When you build those relationships, people are far more open and willing to support each other.”

Pride in the Team

When asked what she is most proud of in her role today, Fiona says:

“Without doubt, I’m most proud of my team. They work incredibly well together and have built a supportive culture where everyone feels comfortable asking for help and sharing ideas.

“They’re known as a reliable, helpful and collaborative team, and that makes me immensely proud.”

Fiona is also proud of her own growth as a leader.

“Moving into leadership requires a mindset shift. It’s taken time and conscious effort to step back and focus on leading rather than doing, but it’s made me a stronger leader.”

Looking Ahead

What continues to motivate Fiona is the pace of change and growth within Scottish Water Horizons.

“Every new area we enter brings new challenges and opportunities for learning. Finance plays a crucial role in shaping and enabling that growth. I enjoy being part of a business that’s evolving. The pace of change keeps the role fresh and motivating, and it’s exciting to see ideas turn into delivered outcomes.”

Advice for the Next Generation

For Fiona, International Women’s Day is both a moment to reflect and a reminder of the progress still to be made.

“It makes me proud. It shows how far we’ve come in recognising women’s contributions and achievements, while also reminding us how important it is to keep creating workplaces where everyone can succeed.”

Her advice to women starting their careers:

• Be yourself and believe in your abilities.
• Step out of your comfort zone — that’s where real growth happens.
• Take opportunities when they come, even if they feel daunting.
• Don’t fear mistakes — they’re often the best learning moments.
• Back yourself and go after what you want.

This International Women’s Day, Fiona’s story is a celebration of women leading with integrity, nurturing teams, and making a real difference toour business.

“Learning, growing, leading – that’s what it’s all about.”