What route did you take to BDO?
I commenced working with BDO Stoy Hayward in 1993, after completing a degree and postgraduate diploma in accountancy at Queens University, Belfast. During my studies at university I was also fortunate to gain experience working with a Management Consultancy firm in San Francisco.

Why did you choose BDO Stoy Hayward?
On completion of my postgrad I went through the traditional milk-round recruitment process. After having interviews with all of the major firms in Belfast, I was finally drawn to BDO Stoy Hayward because of its reputation in the marketplace and also the friendly working atmosphere that was apparent in the office.

What is your role in BDO?
After completing my training contract within the general consultancy division, I specialised in the Business Recovery and Corporate Finance Departments. To develop this specialism further I went on to sit the Insolvency exams, leading to my qualification as a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner in 1999. I am currently a Partner within the Business Recovery Services at BDO.

Typical activities/projects you are involved in at BDO
One of the most appealing aspects of my work at BDO is the sheer variety of clients and assignments that I have been involved in. These have ranged from management receiverships and turnaround projects in the Business Recovery sector, to due diligence and fundraising projects in the Corporate Finance sector. Several assignments have also taken me to far flung destinations including China and the Far East. I find that the variety creates a stimulating and challenging role for me.

Best bits of working in BDO/your department
For me personally, it's important to be part of a friendly and focused team. This allows us to get the job done and to enjoy it at the same time. The friendly atmosphere also extends to social activities through the firm's regular and sports and social activities. These activities have included weekends away for shopping and outdoor pursuits, paintballing, go-karting, golf trips, football and tag-rugby events, and the monthly First Friday Club.

Your advice to those interested in joining BDO
BDO Stoy Hayward is one of the largest and most dynamic firms in Northern Ireland and I believe that it offers its staff an excellent career path for both their academic and personal developments. If it is a more personal working environment combined with exciting challenges that you are looking for, then BDO is for you.

Interests outside BDO
I would consider myself a keen golfer, despite my performances seldom living up to my Tiger Woods inspired expectations! I also play 5-a-side football on a regular basis and I was a member of the BDO team that won the 5-a-side Accountants Cup this year.