What has been your career path so far?

Having worked at Sayer Vincent for 11 years I left in 2006 to work as a freelance internal auditor in the international development sector. Seven years later, and after a role with Mango setting up a new consultancy service, I was back – this time as a partner.

What attracted you back?

Sayer Vincent is a unique place to work. It is a fantastic values-driven firm where social purpose comes first.

What do you enjoy about the charity sector?

I believe that every social purpose organisation has an obligation to maximise its effectiveness – to be the best it can. This includes taking managed risks, being accountable to both beneficiaries and donors and transparency in reporting. Throughout my career I have brought my audit and finance experience to help my clients to do just this.

Many accountants, when at a party or meeting someone for the first time, dread that question – ‘what do you do for a living?’ I welcome it as it gives the chance to explain that not only am I an accountant but that I only work with clients with a social purpose.

What skills do you bring?

To do my job properly I have to understand the business risks and pressures faced by my clients. My internal audit experience helps with this. But I believe it is also essential to have Board experience. I have been a trustee for the last 10 years – currently with INTRAC where I am treasurer and chair the finance and audit committee.

Tell us something people may not know

My first experience of charity finance was as an 11-year-old helping my parents open the envelopes and count the proceeds for their door-to-door collection for Christian Aid week. Little did I know that some 30 years later I would be an interim Head of Audit for Christian Aid!

What do you get up to outside of work?

Some say that my loyal support of Derby County and the England cricket team contradicts my belief in effective organisations. I see it as healthy escapism – alongside being a Dad to two young kids. I also try to practice what I preach as treasurer and trustee of Y Care International.