For the September edition of our #TeamBB series, We met up with Andrew Silk, a Senior Executive based at our Swansea office, to find out a bit more about Andrew’s journey in the industry to date and for him to explain what a typical day at the firm looks like.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born in Johannesburg when my parents worked out there, but I spent my formative years in Pontardawe, attended Swansea University, and now live in the Swansea Marina area. Outside of accountancy and business – I am passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle and help to run a local triathlon club, taking part, volunteering, and organising various events throughout the year.
Although I do a fair amount of exercise, don’t expect me to be fast! Our latest event raised over £2k for charity, which I am very proud of. I also have many travel plans, and now I need to find the time to fit them all in!
Q: How long have you been at Bevan Buckland, and what’s your current role?
I have been at Bevan Buckland since 2010, starting as a Trainee and working my way up to Senior Executive, my current role.
Q: How did you first get into Accountancy?
I have always enjoyed business, and numbers were always my strong point in school, so it felt like a good fit when I decided to do it at college and university. I started with a part-time purchase ledger role in an industry that, while enjoying, I knew I wanted to be more involved in the results and the decision-making, which prompted me to join Bevan Buckland.
Q: What does a typical day look like in your role?
If the weather is good, I cycle into the office, then it’s straight into emails & messages and responding to anything that can be quickly cleared before planning the day ahead. The day’s work usually involves a few client meetings, some time with staff, and some time researching and handling client calls/emails. If I have time, I like to pop out and pick up some lunch and take a walk around Fendrod Lake.
Q: What do you find most interesting/rewarding about your work?
I love to help people and businesses. Seeing the successes of my clients and feeling that I played a small part in that is very rewarding. The most interesting bit is really getting to know my clients and how their businesses operate.
Q: How do you continue learning and growing as a professional?
Every day is a learning day at Bevan Buckland, and every day is different. There is always something new to come across that will involve some creative thinking or research. I also spend a lot of time reading articles and staying on top of local business news.