At the heart of GMP is our people. In this blog series, we want to introduce you to our team so that you get to know the real them. Because it's not about numbers but people.
Meet Danny Sallows, an accountant with over 32 years of experience supporting his clients. But aside from accounting, Danny has a passion for sport and family.
His Perfect Day
For Danny, a day spent on the golf course is time well spent. Just like his dedication to his business, he is equally passionate about the course and aims for as many pars or holes in one as possible!
Danny is also a family man with a love for the UK's history. Away from the golf course, an ideal day would involve visiting a National Trust property with his family, and when the sun shines, sitting outside with a picnic.
Making an Impact
Throughout his career, Danny has had many standout moments, but one that sticks in his mind involves Mr & Mrs C. They had been tangled in an HMRC enquiry due to another unqualified accountant, which had been ongoing for over a year, significantly affecting their physical and mental health. Having reviewed their case, Danny was able to speak with HMRC and bring it to a speedy conclusion, enabling Mr & Mrs C to get their life back on track. Following this, Mr & Mrs C remained clients for many years until they wound down their business. This highlighted how accountants are not just there to tick boxes and ensure legal compliance; they can profoundly impact someone's life, removing stress and worry.
Misconceptions
Danny comments that a common misconception is that accountants look after people's money. But this isn't the case. Accountants manage accounting and tax responsibilities so that individuals can pursue their own goals.
Firefighting
At times, accounting can feel like putting out fires and ensuring all is calm. This links with Danny's career choice outside of accounting; he would have loved to be a fireman!
Dinner Guest
We asked Danny who his ideal historical figure to have dinner with would be, and he chose Nelson Mandela. Danny would want to ask him how it felt to be incarcerated for so many years, and then, after being freed, being made president. He would love to delve into how Mandela always stuck to his firm beliefs and what kept him motivated.
Changes
Danny would appreciate better ways to communicate with HMRC, such as secure email or messaging through the government gateway. Communication is key to Danny's way of working, and he often gets frustrated when contacting HMRC.
Want advice from a real person? Contact GMP, and one of the team, such as Danny, will be in touch.