Q: Please tell me a bit about yourself.
I’ve worked in practice for nearly 20 years, with a primary focus on preparing financial statements and managing bookkeeping. Over this time, I’ve become ACCA qualified and developed a real passion for bookkeeping. It’s an area where I’ve taken the lead and consistently strived for excellence.
Q: How did you first get into accountancy?
As a child, I had always imagined myself becoming a bank manager as I didn’t know what an accountant was, and maths was naturally my strongest subject. However, after finishing school, I wasn’t entirely sure which direction to take. It wasn’t until my twenties, when a family member introduced me to the AAT qualification, that I found a clear path into accountancy. That was the beginning of a rewarding journey.
Q: How long have you been at Bevan Buckland, and what’s your current role?
I joined Bevan Buckland just over a month ago and currently serve as an Executive Bookkeeping Manager.
Q: What does a typical day look like in your role?
My day often involves reviewing VAT submissions, assessing existing systems, and exploring opportunities to streamline processes. I also focus on staff development, providing training and guidance to ensure our team grows in confidence and capability.
Q: What do you find most interesting or rewarding about your work?
Supporting the development of staff is incredibly fulfilling. I also really value being able to help clients by simplifying their financial processes, allowing them to focus more on running their business.
Q: What do you like about working at Bevan Buckland?
Although I’m new to the firm, I already feel a strong sense of belonging. The support from leadership and the proactive approach to building a new department have been incredibly motivating. It’s exciting to be part of something forward-thinking with a genuine opportunity for growth and innovation.
Q: What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this career?
Strong communication and effective time management are key. Analytical thinking and problem-solving also play a significant role in navigating the complexities of the work and delivering value to clients.
Q: What one piece of advice would you give an aspiring accountant or someone just starting their career?
Accountancy can be a challenging path, both academically and personally, as you develop into a professional. My advice would be to be kind to yourself. Nobody gets everything right the first time. Learning and growing can be challenging, but the sense of achievement and the doors it opens make it all worthwhile.
