Tell us about your career journey at Critchleys and your current role?
I joined the Firm at 16 with the aspiration to be an accountant. I qualified AAT in 1992 and ACCA in 1996 and found attending courses a waste of valuable time, but found home study very effective and kept focused. I started as an Accounts Trainee and was privileged to be offered the chance to be a Partner in 2000.
My current role is the Firm’s Managing Partner, where I support clients and go the extra mile to help the client, as well as running a business.
What types of industries and clients do you work with?
The industries I work with are Technology and Innovation, Services and Consultancy, Recruitment, and Land and Property. I enjoy working with business owners and boards on supporting business goals, fully understanding what the business does and how it might develop. Working with a diverse group of clients enables a wider view of market and business ideas, which is very fulfilling.
I am responsible for 300 clients. I enjoy listening to what is important to clients and helping them progress, hearing about the history and future of their businesses, and understanding the personal and family goals. This enables me to go the extra mile to support and help, which I also enjoy.
How has Critchleys supported your development and career growth?
I learnt from some very good people what you should do to achieve outcomes. Critchleys paid for all my study package and I committed to home study. Colleagues showed me what to do and expected me to not just do it but to think as I went. I was given opportunities to do projects and different tasks and I leapt at the chance.
What’s been your biggest career highlight at Critchleys so far?
It might sound strange but staying grounded.
For you, what makes Critchleys 'Critchleys'?
Critchleys gives you the platform to achieve whatever you want.
What are the top 3 things you enjoy about your role, team and Critchleys?
The people, the stories you hear, and colleagues truly developing
What challenges have you faced during your career and how did you overcome these?
I turned up to an Audit Manager and Partner meeting one day and was advised I was the top performer. I honestly had no idea; I had simply focused on what needed to be done and made it happen. I don't think I have ever overcome this way of working.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of their career?
- Find a good professional who will give you an honest view and listen
- Fully commit to learning and development
- Put every effort in, don't find excuses