Helping you prosper
Being an accountant wasn’t on your radar. How did that change?
I finished my A Levels intending to study biology at Exeter University, but I started asking myself what I would actually do with that degree once I graduated.
An apprenticeship and an office job seemed like a sensible option while I figured things out. My dad knew Vince Edwards, one of the partners at the firm, so he arranged what was meant to be nothing more than a practice interview, as the firm didn’t have any vacancies at the time.
However, the partners recognised my potential and created an apprenticeship role for me. Looking back now, that interview completely changed the direction of my career. It certainly wasn't part of the original plan, but I haven't looked back since.
You joined UHY Peninsula as an apprentice in 2017. Looking back, what has that journey been like?
It's been a fantastic experience. I've genuinely enjoyed every stage, from studying AAT and ACA through to becoming a Chartered Accountant and now joining the UHY Peninsula partnership.
I've always been encouraged to keep learning, ask questions and understand the bigger picture of any work I do rather than simply focusing on the technical aspects in front of me.
The practical experience has been just as important as the professional qualifications. Working with different businesses, building client relationships and seeing how experienced partners support clients through a whole host of challenges has taught me a huge amount.
I've never felt held back. Throughout my career I've been given opportunities to develop and challenge myself, always being pushed to reach my potential.
What's the biggest lesson you've learned so far?
That you never stop learning. No matter what your job title is, there will always be situations you've never dealt with before.
Tax legislation changes constantly and every client is different. Even as a partner, I still discuss ideas with colleagues and value their perspective.
One of the strengths of the partnership at UHY Peninsula is having people around you to challenge your thinking and help find the best solution for clients.
What do you enjoy most about working with clients?
Building relationships. We work with businesses over many years and really get to understand how they operate, what challenges they face and where they want to go.
That allows us to move beyond the usual compliance work and become trusted advisers who are integral to their businesses.
Helping clients understand what the figures mean and enabling them to make informed decisions about their business is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
Farming is one of your specialist sectors. What challenges are farming businesses facing today?
Farming has always had its ups and downs as the sector goes through varying cycles, but the highs and lows feel much more extreme than they used to.
Alongside volatile markets and unpredictable weather, farmers are also dealing with significant tax and legislative changes. There's a great deal of uncertainty, but there are still huge opportunities for farms that are prepared to adapt, plan ahead and make informed decisions.
Our role is to help clients navigate those changes, deal with the challenges they are facing and support them in making the right decisions for their business.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in accountancy?
Accountancy is much broader than many people think. When I started, I imagined spending every day behind a desk working through paperwork. The reality couldn't be more different.
There are opportunities to specialise in technical areas or sectors, from particular taxes to staff and practice management. From trainee to partner and everywhere in between, there are so many roles in accountancy which suit a whole variety of people.
I'd also strongly recommend considering an apprenticeship. Learning while you work allows you to gain practical experience from day one. That experience is invaluable and something you simply can't replicate in a classroom.
Outside work, how do you switch off?
I have an allotment, which couldn't be more different from my day job. I mainly grow vegetables and really enjoy trying unusual varieties that I can enter into some of the local village shows – last year my elephant garlic was a big success!
It's a great way to clear my head because when you're working in the garden, you're completely focused on the task at hand. It’s rarely easy work on the allotment, but it’s certainly refreshing.
Living and working in Devon and Cornwall is another huge bonus. Whether I'm travelling across Dartmoor or heading towards the coast to visit clients, or enjoying the countryside at weekends, it's a fantastic place to live.
Finally, as you begin this new chapter as a partner, what message would you like to share with clients and colleagues?
Thank you for the support and encouragement I've received throughout my career so far. I've been fortunate to have been given opportunities since day one, but I’ve learnt it's what you do with those opportunities that really matters.
If you are going to do something, you should give it your full attention and do it properly. There is no point in doing anything half-heartedly. That's the approach I've always tried to take, and it's one I'll continue to bring to supporting our clients in the years ahead.
