We have 10 staff including partners, and a full spectrum of clients. Leonard & Co was set up in 1947 by Noel Leonard, whose son, David, is a former worldwide president of ACCA. We recently moved office to Rathfarnham, Dublin, after 50 years in Dundrum.

I have a broad range of responsibilities, from accounts to income tax to audit. I am also responsible for the charity sector, which has become a much more specialised area in recent years.

The not-for-profit sector is an extremely interesting area to work in. You see a different side of people when they act in a voluntary capacity and work for the good of others. You also recognise that there are multiple stakeholders in every charity, from the government, to boards and directors, to the general public. You have to see things from everyone’s perspective yet remain independent and impartial.

Longer term, my goal is to develop my career in the tax area. It’s a rewarding field and I enjoy engaging with clients, particularly in tax planning. As you get to understand a business, you can provide a better service.

One of our biggest challenges last year was PAYE modernisation. I introduced new payroll software and worked closely with our clients so that they understood their new obligations. Everything worked out well in the end but there will always be teething problems when change and technology come together.

I’m looking forward to introducing our new accounting automation solutions to clients later this year, which should result in time and financial savings for them. I’m also eagerly anticipating the new mandatory financial reporting standard for Irish charities later this year.

I played basketball all through school and college and was a member of the Tribes basketball team in Galway for a number of years. Recently, I joined a mixed social league in Dublin and aim to get back into competitive playing.

One of the lessons I’ve learned is the value of staying objective and impartial. It’s important to build strong relationships with clients, but you also have to recognise that your role won’t always involve delivering good news. It’s important to have an open and honest dialogue with people as you provide support and services to them.