In 2005 my eyes were opened to ‘insolvency’ via a previous IT role. I was young enough at that time to ask myself was IT where I really wanted to be or did this fascinating world of insolvency spur my interest more.
I decided to find out more, knocked on lots of doors, spoke to a few people at different firms and decided that insolvency and BRI was right for me. I’d always had an interest in numbers and decided that I should start by qualifying as an accountant in order understand accounts, specifically profit and loss, cash flow and balance sheets. That was the right decision as understanding how these are prepared and used by directors to make critical business decisions for their business has stood me in great stead.
I spent the first few years studying evening and weekend classes for the ACCA whilst learning my trade during the day Monday to Friday. After successful completion I went on to study my insolvency examinations. However the learning never stops. Every day is a school day and no matter what level you are at being open to absorbing knowledge and experience is the most important factor.
I now advise clients based on my practical experience, years of training and learning and the fact that I have experience of being on the other side of the table.
As a director of a company myself I am completely au fait with the responsibilities that the role requires and the additional pressures that can bring.
In addition to generating referrals (or building relationships as I prefer to think of it) my role also includes:
- making sure clients are supported throughout their journey with BRI
- making sure the work gets done
- making sure the work is completed thoroughly and to a high standard
- looking after the team to make sure they are supported
- keeping my knowledge and technical expertise up to date
- complying with the requirements of our regulator and the legislation surrounding that
- hosting and attending networking events
- and of course everything else from changing light bulbs to general handyman!
At BRI I have learnt to become very good at plate spinning, trying my hardest not to drop anything.
When I was a trainee and beyond, trying to rise up the ranks, I used to ensure that I did the best that I could and always considered how I could assist my line manager, to help make their job easier.
Nothing has changed now, except that I recognise it is my clients that are plate spinning, often with many more sticks and plates than I have.
Instead of trying to help my manager make their job better I do my utmost to make sure the client’s journey through the tough world of insolvency is as gentle as possible and that they are supported throughout. The aim of this is to make their lives easier during what is often one of the most difficult times of their lives.
When I meet with a client one of the first things I ask is what their problems are. The answer is usually akin to they can’t stop spinning their plates otherwise they might drop them. Therefore they have to multitask often jumping from plate to plate (or problem to problem). I try to understand the issues and see what solutions we can find – can’t see the wood for the trees springs to mind. Sometimes I can take some sticks and plates away from them to lessen the burden and given them time to think and see. Sometimes I am sweeping up smashed plates.
Over time we help them get to a point where they feel comfortable with their options, supported and can take informed decisions moving forward.
A recent client has shared their feedback about the Coventry team John Rimmer (director and insolvency practitioner), Pam Mankoo (senior insolvency administrator) and Charlotte Issitt (trainee insolvency administrator):
“I must say, all three of you have been wonderful. It’s not a nice feeling, having to liquidate, you beat yourself up enough about it. So to have the pleasure of dealing with people as understanding and communicative as you, feeling that I can ask any questions without judgement and your constant calmness and reassurance has been invaluable during this period of difficulty. Thank you so much for being so kind and approachable during this process.”
If you are concerned about your business and wish to discuss your financial problems with people that genuinely care then speak to any of the management team at BRI Business Recovery and Insolvency. For a free, without obligation and confidential chat please contact us on 02476 226839 or email jrimmer@briuk.co.uk.