Why did you choose to go into Accountancy?
I kind of fell into it to be honest! I was at university and I had a couple of accounting modules as part of the course which I particularly enjoyed. Long story short, I decided I didn’t want to continue at university and instead secured a role doing AAT closer to home. The rest is history!
Why did you choose Ensors?
I’d been at the same firm for a long time (just over 19 years) and felt like it was time for a change. From my first meeting with James and Jo, I was excited about working with a firm that shared the same passion for helping its clients, but who also truly valued its people.
What do you enjoy about your job, and what motivates you?
I love helping people! I enjoy helping clients better understand their business, enabling them to make well-informed decisions. The same applies to the team; we are always learning and looking to improve. There will always be challenges, and I relish these opportunities to get stuck in and work through the issues, helping clients and the team alike to achieve their goals.
What is the most unusual task you have been asked to carry out at work?
Way back when I was a trainee, I spent some time in the audit team and I was sent to do a stocktake on a weekend. The company was a grain merchant and my manager’s instructions were simply to ‘count the grain’…
What is the most important life lesson you have learnt in your career that you wish you had known earlier?
Don’t worry about things that are outside of your control. That’s not to say you shouldn’t be aware of them, but don’t let them distract you from successfully dealing with those matters that are within your power to influence.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing businesses today?
This was difficult to choose from, but I’ll opt for technology because it is evolving at such a pace, which is great, but can also be a challenge if you don’t get it right. There are a multitude of ‘digital solutions’ available in the market, but that can make it difficult for clients to discern the best option. At Ensors we have a great team who can support clients in choosing the right finance systems for them and their needs.
What is your proudest professional achievement?
I have to say it is being offered the role to join Ensors as Associate Partner to lead the Medical and Healthcare team across East Anglia. There is already such a great team here and I am honoured that the Partners have entrusted me with this role – and I am excited about the future!
Who would you pick to play you in a film adaptation of your life?
I’d have to go for Jennifer Aniston because I grew up in the era of ‘The Rachel’ haircut and so the teenager in me would never forgive me if I went for anyone else.
Pineapple on pizza? Yes or No?
It’s a yes from me! But to add to the controversy, I prefer it with pepperoni rather than ham.
What three things would you take with you to a desert island?
Is this where I am supposed to be clever and say things like “a satellite phone”? It sounds like a nice opportunity for some ‘me time’ so maybe I’d just opt for a beach towel, a sun hat and a good book.
