As I was going in at a senior level, I felt I would be expected to just “get on with the job” but all my colleagues helped me to get to grips with the systems very quickly. The training EQ provide is amazing and ongoing.
Why did you make the move to EQ? What were you looking for? I was looking for career progression and an enjoyable working environment.
What were your apprehensions in moving to EQ? How have these been overcome? I had little farming knowledge and knew the Forfar office was predominantly agricultural based and I was going to be using completely different accounts and tax packages, as well as a different practice management system from my previous employers. As I was starting with EQ at a senior level, I felt I would be expected to just “get on with the job” but all my colleagues helped me to get to grips with the systems very quickly. The training EQ provide is amazing (and ongoing), whether it is in agriculture, tax or using new software packages. I now feel like I have developed my agricultural knowledge and I am able to support my farming clients well.
How different do you think EQ is (to the practice you were in previously)? EQ is very different to the previous accountancy firms I have worked in.
How do our working practices differ to the firm you were part of before? At EQ, you work in a 3-tier system where each client has a controller, manager and partner looking after all their affairs. This means that you get exposure to a variety of accountancy and tax work which makes me a far more rounded accountant. At my previous employers, I was only involved in the preparation of accounts and audits. EQ provide their staff with the full CPD requirements each year, there are lots of accounts and tax updates and training provided which wasn’t provided by previous employers.
What are you involved in at EQ that you weren’t involved in before? i.e. work other than compliance Lots! At EQ I get involved in business restructures and corporate finance work as well as doing very thorough tax planning each year for my clients. The previous employers I worked for were departmentalised, meaning you didn’t get to see everything that was done for a client. I am also part of the Healthcare team which involves recruitment of new clients.
What opportunities have been available to you since you joined EQ? I have been promoted from senior to supervisor and now to assistant manager, and I know if I work hard I can continue to climb the ladder. We are also encouraged to build up our profile outwith the office, so I go to networking events and deliver talks at events and at universities etc – these opportunities weren’t available to me previously.
Can you tell us a little about the relationships you have established with your clients since you joined? I have a good relationship with my clients. I take the time to understand their business and try and visit them where possible each year, rather than have them come to the office, as you get a better feel for the set up they have. I like to think they see me as a “normal person” and not just their accountant and like to have a bit of a chat and catch up when we meet, whilst still dealing with the task at hand.
What three things would you say to someone interested in making a move to EQ?
If you’re interested in finding out more about joining our team, visit our Vacancies page to view our current vacancies.