January Partner Corner: Magnus Baird
This month our ‘Partner Corner’ post is with Magnus Baird, Director at our Colchester office:
- What was your first job?
My first job was as a trainee accountant!
- When did you decide you wanted to work in the Accountancy industry?
I had no idea what I wanted to do after my A Levels so applied for different office jobs in insurance and accountancy. I was very shy when younger so thought an office job would be good for me. I got lucky and started my training at Lambert Chapman.
- What was your early career aspirations?
At first it was a job rather than a career. I just wanted to learn and improve and take it step by step. The career part dawned on me much later but it’s something I always now make very clear to the trainees of today!
- What was your first car, and did you pass your driving test the first time?
My first car was a Vauxhall Nova hatchback – that’s the actual car in the photo! I passed my test first time with only 3 minors. I still have no idea how!
- Did you know at the start of your career that you wanted to become ‘Partner’ one day?
No! I never looked that far ahead and certainly didn’t have the confidence to imagine I could do so.
- What would be your one piece of advice for those new trainees starting out in the accountancy/tax world?
Never Give Up!
- What challenges did you face early in your career?
Passing exams was always hard for me. Looking back, I didn’t devote enough time or take it seriously enough.
- What do you most enjoy about your role?
I love the relationship building with clients, being able to commercially advise them and genuinely help them is a great feeling. And I enjoy motivating the trainees of today with their career progression.
- What do you enjoy doing outside of work (hobbies/activities)?
My biggest passion is cycling. I’m a full on Mamil. I love being out in the fresh air and I do all my thinking on the bike!
- Where do you enjoy going on holiday?
If I had one choice, it would be Italy. I just love the culture.
- What’s your favourite film?
One flew over the cuckoo’s nest
- What music do you enjoy?
It’s really varied but if I went to a desert island and could take one album it would be the Stone Roses debut. I also have an unlikely passion for old school Hip Hop.
- What sports do you enjoy?
Cycling again. I’m also a big Football fan (Liverpool) and American Football fan (Miami Dolphins)
- Who inspires you and why?
Right now, its Rob Burrow. https://www.mndassociation.org/get-involved/donations/rob-burrow/
- What do you like about LB Group?
I like our whole ethos. Compared to our competitors we are way more pro-active. The mix of work is interesting at all levels. Our service is great and so are our people.
- Where do you see LB Group in five years’ time?
Still growing and still great.