I became a member of ACCA in April 2021 and today work full time in practice with DT Carson & Co. We are a small practice that provides a complete and comprehensive range of services including auditing, accounts preparation, taxation, VAT and PAYE services. We specialise in personal and corporate tax planning, investment planning, pension planning and large company audits.
I am fortunate to have a diverse role within the business and work closely with senior accountants on many different aspects of the job. I regularly assist with audit fieldwork, and accounts preparation for both small business and corporate clients. I also provide taxation services and advice. I enjoy the diversity this role provides, and the vast and varied experience I have gained as a result.
Businesses are being cautious and bracing for tougher times ahead
My priorities this year have been very much around the value of digitisation. This ranges from the introduction of digital VAT and the pending introduction of digital tax to exploring new ways to reduce the time spent on analysis by using software tools, which allows more time to focus a broader service offering to our clients. We are continually researching new ways to improve our services to ensure we make the transition to digital tools as straightforward as possible for our clients.
While many businesses are beginning to recover from the pandemic years, I feel there is an air of apprehension among clients. This is a result of the increase in overheads and fuel prices, and the shortage of materials and skilled labour. Businesses are being cautious and bracing themselves for tougher times ahead. As a result, the requirement for forecasting and financial planning will become a primary focus for the practice going forward.
In terms of my own growth and learning, this year I have focused on gaining experience and knowledge from my peers and mentors and investing time in additional training courses. I am keen to expand my knowledge and skills in auditing and taxation, as these are two of my chosen specialist areas, and I am focusing my learning here.
The most important business lesson I have learned in my career is never to be afraid to ask for help. There are so many people with incredible knowledge and skills to learn from and who are more than willing to help by sharing this.
