By Business & Finance 
Pictured: Eva Lavin, Education Manager, LIA
Eva Lavin is Education Manager with LIA, the centre of excellence for the education and development of Finance Professionals. Eva joined LIA in 2018, initially in an administrator role; however, her talent was quickly identified by management and she progressed into a Team Lead role a year later, and promoted to Manager within two years of joining the company. Eva is part of a team that oversees “Smart Money Habits”, a new financial wellbeing programme for professional and elite rugby players across the country.
What was your first job?
I worked in a local pharmacy in Dublin part time when I was in school and college. It was a very varied role that gave me a lot of experience and where I met some great people.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I’ve always been interested in education; I originally wanted to be a teacher but when I left school and didn’t end up getting the course I wanted, I decided to do a Business Degree instead, as business was another area that really interested me. When I left college, I started working in the finance sector and during my time in the industry, I started completing the QFA exams through LIA. This gave me a real insight into the area of professional education. I really respected what LIA was trying to achieve, and when the opportunity arose, I applied for a role within the Education department at LIA, so in a way I suppose I found my way back to Education!
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
I’ve always been very hard-working, and goal focused. When I was 22 I bought my first house, and I remember at the time feeling really proud of achieving that, because I had worked so hard to be able to do it.
Career wise, would you do anything differently?
I’m really happy with where my career has taken me so far, so from that aspect I wouldn’t do anything differently. If I was to give my younger self some advice, I’d say not to be afraid of any opportunity that is given to you, you’ll never regret taking a chance.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Doing something that makes you happy!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Change is inevitable, growth is optional. This is something that has always stuck with me, change is happening all the time, now more than ever, and it’s something that often makes us uncomfortable. But it’s important to embrace change and step outside your comfort zone in order to succeed.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
Personally, I think the culture within an organisation plays a huge role. Open communication and transparency is key! It’s important to listen to staff, work together to find a solution and be open to change, as we’re all learning together. LIA’s values promote innovation, creativity, open communication and respect and these all play a huge part in the success of the company. It’s also important to recognise and acknowledge the little wins along the way.
How do you handle adversity?
I would consider myself quite resilient. I think it’s important to keep a positive mindset, see all sides, listen to others’ viewpoints, and then try to find a solution.
How do you relax?
I like being outdoors, going for walks with my dog and meeting up with family and friends.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business?
My aspiration for LIA is to continue to develop, innovate and invest in practitioner-focused content so we can continue to meet the ever-changing needs of the diverse markets we support. LIA has a strong track record in driving industry standards forward, and that’s what we will continue to do, not only for the benefit of our students and members, but ultimately for the benefit of the consumers who rely on our members for sound financial advice at key milestones in their lives.
