So, Rachel… what’s your day job and how did you reach this stage in your career?
I am the founder and MD of Just Audit Ltd, providing a pure independent audit service, working across the UK, alongside accountancy firms and their clients. My background includes working in accountancy practices of all sizes –training in general practice (Duncan & Toplis, a top fifty, medium-sized practice) and KPMG where I became audit manager and training manager.
What made you decide you wanted to join Council, and what would you like to achieve now you are a Council member?
I’ve been a member of the IPC and want to continue as an active member. I want to make a difference by promoting the two-way communication between ICAEW and its members which is so essential.
As a small practitioner myself, I hear concerns of ICAEW members, the issues practice members are facing, ask for their input on the effect of upcoming changes and their longer-term concerns. Outside work, I get involved in the local network and have many other contacts of all age ranges and career stages who are ICAEW members. On a personal level I am directly and regularly included in discussions with my daughter and her peers, all recently qualified chartered accountants.
As a Council member I will continue to give my views, which hopefully will resonate and be like others in my constituency and the general membership.
What are you most looking forward to now you’ve joined Council?
Making a difference, even if only a small one (an ocean is made up of many small drops!). Serving as a Council member will keep me up to date and I can share how Council sets the strategy, which is good for the general membership to know.
What would you say to anyone thinking of standing for Council?
Go for it. You’ll be able to make a difference, meet like-minded members and give back by being an active member at ICAEW nationally as well as locally.
