Staff Spotlight: Dean Saunders, Accounts Senior

Give an overview of the duties, functions and responsibilities of your job.

I have my own client portfolio that includes limited companies, partnerships, and sole traders. I prepare accounts, tax returns, and quarterly VAT returns if required.

At TAP each client has a dedicated accountant, therefore any queries my clients have come to me. I try and deal with their queries in a timely manner.

I also regularly have initial consultation calls with clients, and it’s a great opportunity for me to learn more about them and their business.

What is a typical working day like for you?

Apart from a cup of coffee at the start of the day, no day is ever the same! I’ll try and complete a set of accounts first thing in the morning, and then I usually start working on emails received overnight and throughout the morning.

Throughout the day I respond to further client queries, peer review accounts for colleagues, and complete VAT returns and Self Assessment returns.

At lunch, we have a pool table and PlayStation we regularly play. If the weather is nice, we often go on walks to get some fresh air.

What particular challenges do you regularly encounter?

Working with a client portfolio there are multiple deadlines that need to be met whether for accounts or VAT. I have to be organised and plan my day to ensure I always meet both objectives.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced by your clients?

Quite often when clients are completing their day-to-day operations they can forget about their bookkeeping and accounts. If left too long this can become overwhelming and penalties/interest can become scary.

Also, when it comes to accounts, not all rules are applicable for everyone. As we have a wide range of clients some allowances and expenses can be different. This can become confusing for clients if they’re completing their own research.

How are you able to use your skills to solve problems for them?

I have worked in accounts over 3 years. I draw upon my experience and studies to provide knowledge to the client so that the client can understand why these problems have occurred.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Working with a wide range of clients, from all around the world. It is interesting, learning about the clients and their businesses. I also get to see some companies grow from small sole traders to high profit limited companies.

What do you like most about working for The Accountancy Partnership?

My colleagues. I have been at TAP just over 6 months and I found everyone so approachable from day one! I know that if I need it, the support is there for me.

We’re well looked after, too. We’re treated to smoothies and lunches twice a week, and a quarterly staff night out which we all look forward too.

What skills do you find most useful to do your job?

Communication and knowledge. Each client works differently, so understanding what works best for them is key. Clients look to us for advice and guidance, so it’s important they fully understand the reasoning behind tax calculations and accounts.

Where’s your favourite place to visit on days off?

I like to visit the cinema on my day off. Me and my girlfriend love going to the cinema as its always a fun day, and we like watching movies. I also like visiting Liverpool One for shopping and food.

Tell us about your proudest achievement.

Achieving Semi-Senior at a young age and completing AAT qualifications.

How would your colleagues describe you?

I can sometimes be referred to as ‘Little Dean’ due to Dean Salmon being taller than me.

What are you reading/binge watching at the moment?

I have re-watched Suits a number of times. Also, a big fan of The Office (has to be the US one).

Who do you admire, and why?

Sir Alex Ferguson. I am a Manchester United fan, and which United fan doesn’t admire him?

What question would you really like to answer, and what’s the answer?!

Messi or Ronaldo? Ronaldo of course!

 
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