“Shifting dynamics”

Tell us about your role and responsibilities

I run my own practice, RSA Accountants in Birmingham, and my responsibilities include practice management, dealing with clients, GDPR requirements and actively working on developing the practice and increasing the client base.

I am also the Midlands branch ambassador for the IFA and my responsibilities are to help develop and promote the institute on a local level. We hold several branch meetings across the year for our members that are also attended by business guests and students. I help plan the meetings, arrange guest speakers and host meetings.

What’s the current business and economic climate like in Midlands?

As with the many other towns and cities around the country, there is a lot of uncertainty, with many businesses still closed due to the lockdown. Some sectors have been hit harder than others, such as hospitality.

I do not think we will know the full extent of damage to our economy until much later this year when certain government support will end.

The dynamics have shifted in some sectors, too, with online retail exploding and many large retail names closing their doors. This has also been affecting the independent business owners.

It is difficult to comment further as we all face a difficult road to recovery, but early signs are good.

How does the IFA work with business, people and the community in Midlands?

I play an active role in promoting the IFA by attending events and having a local profile. I also host the Birmingham branch meetings and work closely with Birmingham City University, which holds them.

Due to the pandemic, our branch meetings have moved online, and other events have not taken place.

I am often contacted by members for support and advice, and relay comments or concerns of local members to head office. I believe this is a vital role to provide a bridge for local members to feel connected to the management of the institute.