Five things you didn't know about...

A good thing...

Launching Arc Legal was the first business I’ve launched from scratch – the majority of my career was spent in major multinational companies. We wanted the business to demonstrate how a new model, with a strong can do culture and a real focus on work-life balance could be a success. Today, we have a 25 person business with premiums close to £10m. Being made redundant from Capita was the start of something good!

Run don't walk...

I am a big believer in corporate social responsibility. A year ago, I joined a group of female staff in the Race for Life raising money for Cancer Research UK. We had such a great time that we decided to create a dedicated corporate responsibility programme for business and Arc Angels was born. We have just celebrated our first anniversary having raised well in excess of £5,000 and supported a range of voluntary organisations.

In a pickle...

My first paid job was grading and packing gherkins in a German pickle factory. Can’t stand the things now!

Eat Sleep Yoga...

I am real fan of yoga and have been on a number of yoga holidays in Turkey, living in a traditional yurt (big nomadic tent).

Don't diss accountants...

I originally trained as a bio-chemist before becoming an accountant – a much and unfairly maligned professional. Accountancy provides a great grounding for running businesses and I would highly recommend it as a career path

Helen Withers is managing director of Arc Legal Assistance.