Phil Brailsford MATT
DIRECTOR
Phil Brailsford has worked for Alexander Accountancy since 2021, joining the board of directors in 2024.
What drew you to accountancy?
When I took my options for my exams I initially wanted to do something in sports but I also did accountancy as a GCSE. My dad was head of maths at my secondary school and I went on to do a modern apprenticeship before I studied for my Association of Accounting Technicians qualifications. My apprenticeship was different to A levels and a degree. I got work based experience and I got the qualifications while I was doing the role.
What do you enjoy most about your role at the firm?
I have always enjoyed working with numbers. I like meeting the clients and being able to help people, whether that is enabling them to reduce their tax liabilities or to understand their business better, while they focus on the day job. I like working closely with clients. I worked for various accountancy firms around the East Midlands, including Dains where I worked for 16 years before I joined Alexander Accountancy.
Is there a professional achievement or qualification you are particularly proud of?
I did my Association of Accounting Technicians qualifications and then went on to my Association of Tax Technicians qualifications. My outlook has always been to work hard which is why I have got to this level in my career.
Outside of work, what hobbies or interests keep you busy?
I have always enjoyed sport. I am not as active as I was once but I love playing squash and racquetball. I like socialising with friends and family. I also enjoy DIY after having been based in an office for work.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their career with Alexander Accountancy, what would it be?
The team we have here is great and any new employees are always welcomed into the team. You should never be concerned at asking questions to ensure you have a full understanding and learn continually. If you are going to progress my mentality is to work hard and be committed, then the opportunities will follow.
What’s something that might surprise people about you or your background?
As a youngster I was very sporty. I had the privilege of playing squash for Staffordshire and swam for Burton upon Trent.
What’s your vision for Alexander Accountancy’s growth?
We have done very well through organic growth, including client referrals. People recommending us speaks volumes about the way we work and the way we look after clients so we need to keep that going. We want to grow through engaging with people through events and outreach in the local business community.
How do you see the business adapting to meet our clients’ evolving needs?
The business will evolve in different ways. These include supporting clients with their new needs such as digital tax to meet HMRC requirements. We are investing in marketing and connecting with the local business community to show what we offer. Artificial intelligence is impacting accountancy as we evolve but we will not change our ethos around setting standards of customer service.
How do you ensure your team delivers exceptional client service?
We strive to offer high quality service with staff training to bring people to the highest standards. We have to keep service levels high so we explain when people join what is required so these levels are maintained.
What sets Alexander Accountancy’s approach apart from other accountancy firms?
The difference with us is we try as hard as we can to ensure every client gets the right attention. There is often a situation in accountancy firms where the biggest clients get the most attention but we have always strived to make sure that even if you are a sole trader you get support you require and we are available when you need us throughout the year. We need to make sure our clients feel valued. We have one team and they are focussed on all our clients.
phil@alexander-accountancy.co.uk
07751 923184