At Gorilla, we like to know our clients inside out. So, it’s only fair you get to meet the team and get to know more about us too.
Our new series of blog posts will allow you to learn more about your accountant, as well as give a bit of a behind the scenes at Gorilla.
First up is Rebecca Steele.
“I’m Becca, one of the Team Leader’s here at Gorilla. I look after Team 5 as well as having my own clients; these range from contractors, BTL companies and a couple of composers! I’ve worked in industry just over 10 years and have been with Gorilla for almost 3.”
1) What made you want to become an accountant?
I like working with numbers. And I also like dealing with customers, so working for a company like Gorilla allows for both those things.
2) Give an overview of the duties, functions, and responsibilities of your job.
As team leader I am available for my team to contact for advice and support. I am responsible for checking over certain things that go out to clients, as prepared by the team. I also operate my own portfolio of clients so am available to them for any advice, queries or support they need too.
3) What is a typical working day like for you?
Usually at my desk for 8.30am, coffee in hand. I start by running through my emails and replying to any that have come in overnight. Then I’ll do some Team admin; checking official documents for the team to send out etc. I’ll always ensure that I am up to date with my own clients’ affairs by routinely reviewing their FreeAgent accounts and ensuring all filings are taken care of (VAT returns, annual accounts etc).
Throughout the day I respond to emails as they come in, we have a client service guarantee of getting back to any queries the same day if received by 3pm. We’re often asked for up to date tax calculations and advice on tax thresholds which takes time to personalise for the clients, but it’s satisfying to make the numbers add up.
4) What are some of the biggest challenges faced by your clients currently?
Understanding all the changes happening with taxes, allowances, and thresholds. Luckily, they can come to us with any queries they might have and we can tailor our advice to each client or business.
5) What’s the first thing you do when you get to the office in the morning?
Make a coffee!
6) If someone asked you for a behind the scenes insight into Gorilla, what would you tell them?
We all work hard to offer great customer service. And most days there is cake in the kitchen!
7) What’s your favourite thing to do on days off?
I like to go for a run and go to the gym, I like hanging out with my little boy, and I like drinking wine; not all at the same time, necessarily.
8) What is one piece of advice you’d give to a client?
Ask your accountant all the questions! Even if they seem silly – we always say there are no stupid questions and it’s true! Whilst most issues can be rectified, I find prevention is better than cure; if you’re not sure that an expense is an allowable or an invoice has been raised correctly ask before you finalise it and then you can be sure you are operating correctly.
9) Tell us about your proudest achievement.
In life, I would say my son who is 6 and a whirlwind but the best, funniest person I know. Professionally, stepping into the leadership role within the last year.
10) How would your colleagues describe you?
Probably bossy. But I’d hope also approachable and happy to help.
11) What are you reading or watching at the moment?
Just started Bridgerton series 2 and just finished reading the latest Louis Theroux autobiography.
12) What’s for lunch today?
Chicken Caesar salad, with an iced coffee
Want to work with Becca and the team?
If you’re looking for a new accountant, now is a great time to switch. You can learn more about how we make switching easy, here.
