In this section of the website, we introduce you to one of our firms. Up next is Phillip Carroll, run by Director David Burgess and his team. Read his answers to get to know him and the firm.
What do you like about working for your firm?
“The people. The general perception of accountancy is that it is about numbers, but I have always felt it is about people. I have spent years building an amazing team around me and an equally amazing client base who appreciate what we do. You work and do business with people you like.”
What are in your words the strengths of your firm?
“As already mentioned previously, the team. I also think we are a progressive firm, always looking to improve what we do, how we do it, and charge sensibly for it. Joining Xeinadin and become part of the firm of the future was a natural fit.”
“You cannot stand still in business. If you stand still, you are moving backward.”
David Burgess, Director
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned at your firm?
“You cannot stand still in business. If you stand still, you are moving backward. Business is forever changing and evolving, and you need to move with the times, preferably being ahead of the curve.”
What is the most rewarding experience you have had at your firm so far?
“Helping clients is always rewarding, but there is a real sense of satisfaction when meeting and helping new clients. If they come to see me having had a bad experience with their previous accountant, or having not had an accountant before, working with them, explaining what we do and how we can help, and implementing the advice we give is very rewarding.”
What result you achieved for a client are you most proud of?
“We picked up a new client recently, affected by Brexit, who needed to set up a UK operation. We have implemented a full accounting, bookkeeping, and stock control system for them, which is cloud-based and allows full access by the UK and European team members.”
“Never listen to the guy down the pub. If you need to know something ask an expert.”
David Burgess, Director
What is your favourite statement that you regularly use when advising your clients?
“Never listen to the guy down the pub. If you need to know something ask an expert.”
Which conditions do you think a ‘firm of the future’ should meet?
“Innovative and collaborative. A firm of the future must always lead the way with innovation, setting the standard for communication and execution of assignments. As communication is key in our industry, collaboration with clients to ensure we meet their needs is essential. Collaboration with each other will help to make change too.”
How do you see the future of your firm from your perspective?
“We already see the authorities using technology to gather information, with the Government Gateway and MTD. The accountancy profession is keeping up with this, but the real firm of the future needs to be ahead of the curve and accept that compliance work will be automated in time. The Firm of the Future needs to use technology and develop new methods of working with that technology which sets the standard rather than just adapting to government initiatives. We need to be developing technology for communication and advice.”