At GMP, we take pride in the diversity of our team's interests. We understand that outside of work, we all have normal lives, and this series of blogs is designed to show you the other side of our accountants.
Today, we're looking at David Ashby, an accountant whose love for numbers is matched by some of life's simpler pleasures.
The Perfect Day Off
For David, the perfect day off from accounting is a simple yet fulfilling one: a day out with his family. Although, like all of us, at times, a chance to escape on our own is also welcome, and David loves the quiet and relaxing sport of fishing, where he can soak up the calmness of nature.
A HMRC Victory
David's expertise goes above balancing the books. It extends to supporting his clients in times of adversity. He recalls a time when he successfully petitioned HMRC to cancel substantial penalties for a client who was unable to submit his tax returns. This had a significant impact on the client and affirms the invaluable role of a dedicated accountant.
More Than Just Numbers
One of David's objectives is to dispel the myth that being a great accountant is all about being good with numbers. In fact, the profession is as much about problem-solving and logical thinking. This takes as much creativity as it does mathematical prowess.
Dreaming of Architecture
Given the opportunity to live a day in another career, David would choose to be an architect. The allure of designing something tangible resonates with his methodical yet imaginative spirit.
Dinner with a Genius
If David could have dinner with any historical figure, it would be Albert Einstein. Engaging with a mind that reshaped our understanding of the universe would be a treasured encounter.
A Change to HMRC
In David's perfect world, he would like a more personable and responsible HMRC. By making the tax authority more approachable to the public, it would not only help demystify the tax process but also build up a feeling of trust and transparency in the service.