Paul Crabtree - ACA Trainee

Paul's experience at Roffe Swayne to date

When did you join?

I joined in July 2008

What is working in professional services like?

It's about meeting deadlines, hitting targets, being thorough and ultimately providing a first class service to each of our clients. It's about working in a team, which is enjoyable and energizing. There's the opportunity to use a broad range of different skills including juggling different jobs, setting priorities and being proactive. It's rewarding to help clients with their business, especially in the current climate where both flexibility and efficiency are crucial.

Why Roffe Swayne?

Because of the wider variety of experience available - at Roffe Swayne we are involved in a much wider range of client services, which is a great way to develop my skills and help me on the way to becoming a Chartered Accountant. I'll also have a better idea which area I want to specialise in. It's a friendly and sociable place. I'm a keen sportsman so it is nice to have sport facilities onsite and make use of them at lunchtime.

How have you found it?

I am enjoying my work and I have managed to get a balance between the practical work, study and social life.

And the people?

The people are warm and professional. There is an open door policy which I admire and it is probably part of the reason why I felt very much part of the RS team so soon after joining.

What's been the best moment so far?

Using my French to enable the firm to provide a better client service was a highlight. Whilst this was fairly demanding given the complexity of French accounting terminology it was pleasing to make a positive contribution.

Also working in the corporate finance department - discovering how the process of buying and selling businesses works was hugely insightful, interesting and compelling.

And the worst?

My worst moment was definitely trawling two toppers and two bags on the London underground to see a client in what seemed to be tropical conditions!

And your plans for the future?

I am very ambitious - I want to pass my exams and work my way up within the firm, ultimately to become a partner.