December Partner Corner – Michael Warman!

This month our ‘Partner Corner’ post is on Michael Warman, Director at Chelmsford…

1. What was your first job?

Silly question, trainee accountant.

2. When did you decide you wanted to work in the Accountancy industry?

I don’t recall ever making that decision. I never wanted to go to university, knew I had to get a job, and wanted to learn a profession.

3. What was your early career aspirations?

To qualify. I was attracted by the job security qualification provides. My Dad was/is self-employed and that can be challenging at times. I felt if I qualified, I would always be able to get a job.

4. What was your first car, and did you pass your driving test the first time?

Ford Fiesta. Yes, passed first time, 3 minors, it was my driving instructors record at the time!

5. Did you know at the start of your career that you wanted to become ‘Partner’ one day?

No, I didn’t look that far ahead. I’ve always just focussed on the next level up.

6. What would be your one piece of advice for those new trainees starting out in the accountancy/tax world?

Embrace learning, don’t shy away from opportunity and take pride in your work.

7. What challenges did you face early in your career?

I was signed up to ACA as soon as I joined my training firm. I was 18 straight out of sixth form, the other trainees were all 21+ with degrees in finance related topics. I felt out of my depth and the first say two years of exams were rather challenging for me. Something clicked when I became part qualified, and I kicked on from there.

8. What do you most enjoy about your role?

Variety. I’m not one for routine outside of work. Working with so many clients across lots of sectors and service offerings keeps me engaged.

9. What do you enjoy doing outside of work (hobbies/activities)?

These days it appears to be Lego, Hot Wheels and pretending to be James Bond. I try to spend as much of my time as possible being a good Dad.

I am an avid Southend United supporter, season ticket holder, shareholder (we are insolvent) and our current plight pains me.

10. Where do you enjoy going on holiday?

My favourite place in the world is Las Vegas, I’ve been 3 times and I’m going again for a stag do next year.

Aside from that my other half and I enjoy Italy and we’ll be heading there for our first wedding anniversary next March.

11. What’s your favourite film?

Tough question, probably Shawshank Redemption or Lock Stock & Two Smoking Barrels.

12. What music do you enjoy?

These days my music taste is rather eclectic. In my younger days it was UK Garage, and I’d often be in Ayia Napa for a few weeks each summer.

13. What sports do you enjoy?

Lots. Football, Boxing, Tennis, Cricket, I could go on.

14. Who inspires you and why?

William Warman

He was a stretcher-bearer in WW1. There is a book which describes how he brought many men to safety whilst under heavy fire. He was awarded the distinguished conduct medal but unfortunately died in a prisoner of war camp in Hamburg after the armistice was signed.

Perspective is very important, and we forget that at times (even after a pandemic). Sometimes I need reminding just how fortunate I am to be able to live the life that I live.

15. What do you like about LB Group?

I like the fact that we sit in a section of the market where we are small enough to offer flexibility to suit our client base, yet big enough to attract interesting and challenging work.

16. Where do you see LB Group in five years’ time?

Continuing the upward trend, probably still focusing too much on the very few negatives and not giving ourselves enough credit for all the positives. I guess that’s a firm with ambition, and that matches up well with me.