Meet Audrey Vella

Chief Financial and Human Resources Officer (CFHRO) in the Aviation sector

Audrey began her career at a Big 4 firm, where she spent six years gaining solid experience in finance and auditing. She then moved into the Gaming industry, where she climbed the ranks from Finance Manager to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). After several years in that sector, she took a step back from corporate life to explore entrepreneurship.

During her two-year break, Audrey opened a fitness studio and provided business consultancy services. This period offered a different kind of professional experience – one that involved running her own business and working directly with clients. She eventually returned to the corporate world, taking on her current role as Chief Financial and Human Resources Officer (CFHRO) in the aviation sector.

In her current role, Audrey leads both the Finance and HR departments at a Company that offers aircraft management and charter services. Her responsibilities include financial reporting, managing cash flow and participating in board meetings. On the HR side, she oversees recruitment, employee relations and payroll.

From an early age, Audrey was drawn to numbers and problem-solving – interests that made accounting a natural career choice. Today, in her CFHRO role, she brings those strengths to a position that is both fast-paced and wide-ranging.

She describes her typical day as dynamic, involving a mix of routine reporting and unexpected challenges. Her responsibilities often include preparing financial reports, meeting with team members and executives to discuss strategic projects, budgeting and forecasting, managing financial and operational risks, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. The role requires constant prioritisation, clear communication, and the flexibility to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Balancing both strategic priorities and day-to-day operations keeps the role both engaging and demanding.

Audrey believes that each stage of her career helped prepare her for where she is today. Working in a Big 4 firm taught her discipline, attention to detail and client management. The Gaming industry helped her grow as a leader and gain commercial decision-making experience, while running her own business sharpened her adaptability and broadened her skill set beyond finance.

Outside of her full-time role, Audrey continues to run her fitness studio, stays active through personal training, and contributes to the rugby community through volunteer and committee work. With so many responsibilities, strong time management is essential – something she views as key to success in both professional and personal life.

Audrey encourages those thinking about accounting to look beyond the traditional view of the profession. While technical skills remain important, modern accountants play a vital role in shaping business strategy and driving long-term success. She also recommends gaining experience across different sectors and roles to build confidence and broaden understanding. “Don’t be afraid to try new things and move between sectors,” she advises. “The more you learn, the more prepared you’ll be for leadership roles in the future.