Getting to know Martha Adames - Mar Azul

In this opportunity, we will get to know a little more about our Accounting Manager. Martha Adames has been working with Mar Azul Projects for eight years, which have been full of challenges and experiences. Prior to Mar Azul, she worked for a well-known construction company in Panama for nine years, also having experiences with a high-end housing developer, making her way up to contribute knowledge in Mar Azul Projects since 2013.

In her personal life, Martha defines herself as follows: committed, very familiar, and true to her convictions. What are her hobbies? She tells us that in her free time she likes to enjoy her family. “I love dogs, I have four at home. I really enjoy walking and exercising. I also enjoy getting together with my friends.”

About Mar Azul

Within the time working on Mar Azul Projects, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced?

“To order an accounting department that had been led by three previous bosses and in which, due to lack of commitment, there was no updated information. What did I learn from that? That we must always be organized, committed to our work tasks, and that we must like what we do since I feel that it is a vital component; mainly in the position I hold.”

We asked Martha to tell us an anecdote of her career with Proyectos Mar Azul: “In my first internal Quality Management Audit, I only had a week since starting to work for Marazul and had not had the opportunity to update the process. I remember that the auditors raised several observations. After that moment, we have made continuous improvements to the process, obtaining zero non-compliances with our Quality Management System.”

Martha, given your years of experience, what is the most difficult part of your position and how do you manage to cope with it?

“As an accountant, I am focused on identifying problems and proposing solutions to achieve better results. However, both the arrival of technological advances and new tax and financial laws have also been opportunities for us to train; today it is important to have clear rules to avoid infractions.”

What has been the most valuable advice you have received?

“A boss once told me: when you are sure of your knowledge, data, and information, you will be able to debate with anyone.”

We know that your position requires countless skills and is fraught with challenges. Throughout your experience, what do you consider to be five good keys to achieving a balance between work and family?

“I believe that achieving this balance has proven to be extremely important for our health. It is both a matter of attitude and of action that implies dedicating time to different activities. The keys that I think we must take into account and that I can share with you, are these:

I think the first thing we need to do is to identify what really matters and communicate it;
Delegate: we must know how to trust the people around us more;
Time management: planning your work week in advance helps you improve your quality of life, both personal and professional;
Set limits: prioritize your work and personal activities; and
Exercise: a workout routine is an essential part of maintaining a good work-life balance. This contributes to a healthy life and will also help you feel more positive and happy. It works for me.”

A phrase from Martha to keep in mind: “We must all remember that work and family life are of equal importance.”