THE MENTEE

Jonny Mills CA
Founder, Wealth Pilot

Jonny Mills CA began his career with Deloitte after graduating in economics from Durham University in 2014. Over 10 years, he gained invaluable experience in audit, M&A and IPO work. But by early 2024, he found himself at a crossroads. “I started asking myself, ‘Is this what I want to do forever?’” Mills recalls. “The answer was no. I wanted to try something different, maybe start my own business, but I wasn’t sure how to go about it.”

Mills, who is also a member of ICAS Council, took a leap of faith, opting to explore his entrepreneurial ambitions. “I’d noticed that people who achieve great things never do it alone,” he says. “I realised I needed support, especially from someone who had been through the process of starting their own business, so I turned to ICAS Mentoring.”

This is a platform that enables CAs to examine the career details of volunteer mentors, selecting the one who seems the most suitable. Browsing their various profiles, Mills found Heather McKay CA. “I remember seeing Heather’s profile and writing to her in January 2024, explaining that her profile was closely aligned to what I wanted to do. Heather had not only started her own business, but she had a real understanding of where I was coming from in terms of my professional background and all that brings with it. CAs tend to be a bit more cautious and have a very structured path through their career, so to have the context of those two things in Heather was just so powerful.”

Mills and McKay’s mentoring relationship began with monthly online sessions, providing Mills with structure and clarity during a pivotal time in his career. “Heather was incredible at listening to my ideas – some of which felt crazy at the time – and helping me refine them,” he says. “After every meeting, I left feeling crystal clear about what I needed to do next. After the first meeting I knew how I wanted the next six months to look.

“Walking away from the high salary, status and career trajectory we’re often taught to choose was nerve-wracking, but Heather helped me face that. As our meetings progressed, I would complete the actions from last time [before seeing her]. I understood I only had limited time with her, and as I had decided to resign in July 2024, I was determined to get the most out of it.”

“Mentorship isn’t just about guidance – it’s about building relationships and learning from each other. It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done”

Jonny Mills CA

In March 2024, Mills took a sabbatical. And in July, he duly resigned from Deloitte to launch Wealth Pilot, a business focused on wealth coaching and financial education. “Heather’s guidance throughout was invaluable,” he says. “She gave me the confidence to make big decisions and helped me stay on track. Her calm, reassuring presence was exactly what I needed.”

Mills credits the ICAS mentorship experience with transforming his mindset. “CAs often underestimate their own skills because we’re surrounded by other CAs who share the same knowledge,” he explains. “Heather helped me realise just how much I had to offer.”

Looking ahead, he is eager to pay it forward. “I’d love to become a mentor myself,” he says. “The ICAS network is incredible – full of talented, high-achieving people who are willing to give back. It’s one of the greatest things about being part of this community.”

THE MENTOR

Heather McKay CA
Owner, Become Aligned

Heather McKay qualified as a CA in 1999, building a successful career in risk management, consulting and accounting. After moving into part-time work to balance her career with family life, she pivoted during lockdown in 2020, founding Become Aligned, a business focused on personal development and wellness.

When Mills contacted McKay through ICAS Mentoring, she was intrigued but slightly apprehensive. “I remember thinking, ‘Wow, this is a senior professional. What if I don’t meet his expectations?’” she admits. “But that feeling disappeared within seconds of our first conversation. Jonny was so respectful and eager to learn that we quickly established a strong rapport.”

For McKay, mentoring is about creating a safe space for growth. “It’s not about giving advice or telling someone what to do,” she says. “It’s about listening, asking the right questions, and helping the mentee find clarity. The reward comes from seeing them progress and achieve their goals.”

McKay’s approach proved to be a perfect match for Mills. “He came to our sessions with big ideas, and we worked together to turn those into a clear plan,” she says. “What stood out about Jonny was his determination and openness. He was willing to challenge himself and think outside the box. It was inspiring to watch him grow into his new role as a business owner.”

McKay encourages others to consider becoming mentors. “You don’t need all the answers,” she says. “As long as you can listen and provide an outside perspective, you can make a huge difference. It’s not about being an expert – it’s about being a sounding board and helping someone find their own path.”

A shared journey

The pair’s mentorship story highlights the power of connection and shared experiences. Both have gained from their time together and plan to stay in touch. “We’ve both learned from each other,” says Mills. “Heather’s guidance has been invaluable, and I hope to carry forward the lessons I’ve learned into my own mentoring relationships in the future.”

McKay agrees, noting the mentoring scheme is uncommonly effective. “As CAs, we share a foundation of skills and experiences that makes the relationship immediately relatable. It’s like mentoring a familiar stranger – you understand each other’s world, even if you’ve never met before,” she says.

Mills agrees, adding, “The ICAS network is phenomenal. Everyone I’ve met through the scheme has been willing to give their time and expertise. It’s an incredible resource, and I’d encourage any CA to get involved.

“It’s not about giving advice or telling someone what to do. It’s about listening, asking the right questions, and helping the mentee find clarity”

Heather McKay CA

“Mentorship isn’t just about guidance – it’s about building relationships and learning from each other. It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.”

For CAs considering mentorship, whether as mentor or mentee, Mills and McKay’s journey is testament to its transformative potential. Through open dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to growth, they’ve charted a path to success that should inspire others to follow.

 

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Jonny Mills CA and Heather McKay CA will be addressing the webinar “Navigating careers with support: Mentorship, wellbeing, and professional growth” on 25 February. Register here
Learn more about the ICAS Mentoring programme