Accountants are the backbone of financial transparency, translating complex data into actionable insights for informed business decisions. We are at our best as trusted business advisers. Accountants are unsung heroes who ensure compliance with financial regulations, build investor trust and empower businesses to allocate resources efficiently and fuel growth. Overall, no mean feat!
I don’t think most people have fully grasped how deeply the explosion in artificial intelligence (AI) will disrupt almost every facet of our lives. Technological advances have historically impacted so-called ‘low-skill’ and easily automated tasks, but AI-based technology is on an exponential curve and will impact professional services like never before. Practitioners and companies that can move with pace and adapt the fastest can thrive, but we must be cautious about privacy, security and data accuracy risks.
Last year I was nominated for Accountancy Age’s Top 35 Under 35. What I enjoy most about my job are the people I work with and being able to work with many companies simultaneously, which has given me tremendous exposure to different industries, services and ways of operating. Although I’m now more specialised in my area of accountancy, every day has a new client challenge or opportunity.
The ACCA Qualification appealed to me as it is industry and internationally focused
I started my journey with ACCA after studying accounting and finance at UEA; it appealed to me as it is industry and internationally focused. I could also self-study and was completely self-funded; I remember the long days studying during lunch breaks and after work. The challenge further motivated me to pass all the exams first time.
I joined a small local accounting practice and worked across many areas of accounting, which was great for starting my career. After qualifying within three years and working up to finance manager level, I moved to central London and to a much bigger practice, joining Haysmacintyre in 2016.
Our focus on soft skills has never been more important in the age of technology and AI
I have worked my way through manager levels at Haysmacintyre and am currently a director in a team of more than 35 London-based accountants, from graduates to trainees to experienced managers. I also manage a diverse and often challenging portfolio of clients comprising predominantly small and fast-growing companies, and I’m heavily involved with several strategic firm projects.
Our development is as focused on soft skills as it is on technical. This has never been more important than now in the age of technology and AI.
Outside of work, I love making special memories on days out with my young family. I’m a big sports fan and can happily talk most sports with anyone; my main passion has always been football, despite being a long-suffering Spurs (and England) fan. I love travel, walking and exploring new places. If that includes new places for a coffee or a bite to eat, even better!
