In this section of the website, we introduce you to one of our firms. Next up is Cobham Murphy, run by Directors Phil Harrison and John Green, and of course, their team. Read the answers to our questions to get to know the men and the firm.
What do you like about working for your firm?
Phil: “We have a good mix of staff and clients and a very practical approach to the work that we do. Our clients are very diverse and we are constantly looking to improve efficiencies and help clients grow.”
John: “I am proud of our robust representation of our clients against all Regulatory Bodies, including HMR&C. Our knowledge, integrity, professionalism and expertise make it it a fulfilling experience working here.”
What are in your words the strengths of your firm?
Phil: “The strength of our firm is the specialist knowledge that we have and our commercial awareness which comes from us having many years shared experiences with our clients. we like to provide much more than basic compliance services and are always looking to find areas where clients can improve their profitability and efficiency.”
John: “The strength of this firm is our people; it is a mix of highly qualified and experienced individuals who are committed to the highest standards.”
“Our clients are very diverse and we are constantly looking to improve efficiencies and help clients grow”
Phil Harrison, Director of Cobham Murphy.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned at your firm?
Phil: “We are the servants and clients the masters. Whereas the clients come to us for professional advice we must always be aware that this must meet individual clients needs and there is not one single answer for each challenge. Any of our solutions therefore need to be tailored to meet an individual’s needs.”
John: “Not to take anything for granted and no knee jerk reactions.”
What is the best or most rewarding experience you have had at your firm so far?
Phil: “Helping a client sell their business for seven-figure amounts only two years after their bank wouldn’t even give them a £20k overdraft facility. This showed that anything is achievable with expert help if the client has the capacity to constantly learn from their experiences!”
John: “Watching young trainees progress to fully functional professionals.”
“Being at the helm of a business can be a lonely business and clients need encouragement and praise like anyone else”
Phil Harrison, Director of Cobham Murphy.
What is your favourite statement that you regularly use when advising your clients?
Phil: “I always like to tell my clients how well they are doing. Being at the helm of a business can be a lonely business and clients need encouragement and praise like anyone else.”
“Only answer the question that you are asked.”
John Green, Director of Cobham Murphy.
Which conditions do you think a ‘firm of the future’ should meet?
Phil: “The firm of the future should use modern technology to produce good analytical information, whilst always looking for leading-edge solutions. They should then use the information along with their many years of knowledge and experience to help the clients navigate the complex experience that they will encounter in the modern business world.”
John: “Fully encompass all possible services for clients at the highest level.”
How do you see the future of your firm from your perspective?
Phil: “Information-rich, technologically savvy, diverse culture, dominating the local market for SME’s, specialists in may sectors, perceived as efficient and trustworthy, individually motivated with a team spirit, well regarded by our peers, between 50 and 100 staff who are motivated and off all ages.”
John: “Continuing the same services and values with the best possible people.”