My early career and progression
After my A-Levels, I chose a career in accountancy and began working at a reputable accountancy firm local to me. When I completed my ACA qualification in 2014, I was promoted to manager at that firm. Having been based in East Sussex for a while, I was ready for a slightly different setting and moved to London, where I joined Shipleys LLP in March 2016 as an audit supervisor.
Prior to Shipleys, my audit exposure was limited. Joining this mid-tier firm, however, gave me the opportunities I sought to experience all the different aspects of compliance and advisory work. I also greatly valued the training I received at Shipleys, which further developed my audit experience and knowledge.
These opportunities certainly helped my progression. I was promoted to Assistant Manager after just 9 months. My career didn’t stop there either. 6 years after several promotions, I became a Principal of Shipleys and a member of its Senior Team in May 2022.
Why choose Shipleys LLP
I always hoped to work in the bright lights of London after qualifying in a small town on the South Coast. In doing so, I knew I didn’t want to go to a ‘Big 4’ firm. This is because I wanted to work in an accountancy firm where I would experience both partner and firm-wide engagement. It was important to me to be able to build my knowledge and expertise across a broad service offering.
I also wanted a great work-life balance, what with moving to London for the first time. Shipleys LLP definitely delivers this.
It was scary moving from a small boutique practice with limited audit experience, but I’m so glad I did. Moving to a mid-tier firm with approachable colleagues across all levels really helped me progress and quickly grasp that initial role as an audit supervisor. Eight years on and several promotions later, I have never looked back.
My current work and specialist areas
I now look after a diverse portfolio of clients ranging from start-ups and owner-managed businesses to large companies and groups. I’ve also come to specialise in the SaaS, Technology and Property sectors and support FCA-regulated clients in meeting their statutory reporting requirements. This has led me to regularly publish compliance-related articles for E-money businesses.
In addition to my membership of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales, I am a member of Shipleys’ audit technical committee and cloud accounting team.
In 2024, I was delighted to be announced as one of the winners in Accountancy Age’s 35 Under 35, which showcases young talent in the UK’s accounting firms. These awards celebrate those actively supporting a positive evolution of the profession in these changing times.
My advice
My one piece of advice to anyone looking to specialise in accountancy is to make the move – grasp it with two hands and enjoy it. You do not realise what you are capable of until it is presented in front of you.
Shipleys LLP has given me the experience, commercial exposure and a wealth of knowledge whilst working with the most incredible team. That continues to be the case to this day.
