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Getting to know Ashley Willis our Trainee Chartered Accountant.

Tell us about yourself

I started with David Allen in August 2017 after graduating with an Honours Degree in Accounting and Finance at Lancaster University,  I am currently in my final year of ACA studies.  In my free time, I enjoy partaking in a wide variety of sports, from football to rounders as well as socialising with friends.

What did you aspire to be as a child?

I have always loved football; so, I aspired to do anything associated with the sport.

What do you feel most proud of in your life to date?

Exam success: Achieving good A-Level results to get into a well-respected university. Graduating with a 2:1 and then having currently passed 14 of the 15 ACA exams required to be an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.

Describe your job in three words.

Challenging, rewarding and varied.

What drew you to work at David Allen, and how has your career progressed since starting?

I was drawn to work at David Allen after undertaking a month of work experience at the firm whilst at university. I liked both the workplace culture, and the friendliness of all the staff, so applied to work here immediately after my graduation.

My career has progressed massively since starting. I have gained a wide range of knowledge and expertise through both my ACA studies and practical work experience.

How has your ACA training helped you in your role?

The ACA training has not only provided me with a vast amount of technical knowledge but has also allowed me to develop more high-level professional skills, enabling me to become more competent in my role.

What is your strongest personal quality?

Focus. I’m not easily distracted when something needs to be done.

If you could trade lives with one person for an entire day, who would it be and why?

Peter Kay – to find out what it feels like to be funny!

Choose a movie title for the story of your life.

Fast and Furious.

What is the first piece of advice you would give an aspiring Accountant?

Be studious, dedicated, and more importantly patient; training to be an accountant will not happen over-night.

What is your Monday Motivation?

‘Don’t worry, be happy!’