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David Morris
Director
So, Alisha, what possessed you to want to become an accountant!?
After I finished high school, I began performing in local bars and restaurants as a musician alongside my A-Levels which is when I became properly immersed in the world of taxes! I really enjoyed the bookkeeping and self-assessment element of this and watching my little start-up grow was so rewarding. It was only then that I actually thought about stepping this up and becoming an accountant full-time.
Tell us about the moment you knew that working for Banks Sheridan was the right move?
I remember my first week at Banks Sheridan back in the summer of 2019. Going from a 12-week holiday after my A-levels straight into a full-time job proved difficult to say the least. I was fast asleep by 7pm on my first day as I was so exhausted!
After a few weeks, I began to stabilize and it became much easier to learn on the job. The variety of work I was trusted with preparing meant no two days were the same. From then on, I knew I’d made the right decision.
Tell us about your training path so far and how it has helped develop your career.
Within my apprenticeship, I am studying towards my AAT qualification with Cheshire College South & West. Thankfully, I managed to complete Level 2 just before the first lockdown and from home I jumped straight into Level 3. After achieving distinctions at these levels, I am now working towards Level 4.
At college, I learn a range of new skills and accounting concepts that consolidate and develop my on-the-job learning and this really benefits the work I do here at Banks Sheridan. My accounts and VAT returns have improved massively since studying AAT, and I’m sure my colleagues will agree!
So, you’re a finalist at the prestigious South Cheshire Chamber Awards! Wow! It won’t have been easy just to get that far! What do you think sets you apart from the other finalists?
Thank you! Yes, I’m incredibly honoured to make it even this far! I don’t actually know who the other finalists are this year but judging from previous years, they’ll be a strong bunch and all very deserving of the award. I will keep my fingers crossed but I am sure the judges will make the right decision. Best of luck to those shortlisted for the South Cheshire Chamber Awards!
Knowing what you know now, what word of advice would you give to other people considering a career in accountancy?
Test the waters! Deciding a career pathway is a huge decision, especially for younger people. Getting a little work experience in practice or industry will give you a taster of the role and help you gauge if it’s right for you.
What would you say is your raison d’etre/mantra?
To always strive to better myself!
You are a women of many talents – tell us about your other passion…
So, I am a musician outside of the 9-5! From around 16 years old, I’ve been performing at bars, weddings and parties in and around Cheshire. I started out initially as a solo pianist and vocalist, since lockdown, I’ve formed a duo too! It’s incredible to be busy again after a whole year without gigs, and nothing beats the feeling when a crowd sings Sweet Caroline at the top of their lungs back to me! It’s quite the contrast from my job in accountancy!
Let’s delve deeper…!
What are you most proud of (so far)?
I think many people will agree with me on this one. Making it through the lockdowns is something I’m proud of most. It came with a lot of battles; getting used to working from home, self-studying AAT, and not being able to see friends and colleagues. I’ve managed to come out of the other side stronger and I’m so thankful that we’re (almost) back to normal. Another achievement I’m proud of is being nominated for Apprentice of the Year with the South Cheshire Chamber Business Awards, and even being shortlisted as a finalist!
What are you looking forward to the most in life?
Buying a home and travelling the world!
Three words to describe yourself please..
Friendly, driven and kind (I’d like to think!)
Who would you bring with you if you were trapped on a desert island (apart from Bear Grylls-well, who doesn’t need a guy like that given that situation!?)
I’d bring Michael McIntyre to keep me entertained – I’d go insane otherwise!
Ok, we all have one – what’s your favourite work treat/guilty pleasure?
After a big deadline, I’m guilty of treating myself to a big box of brownies. The worst part is, I have them all for myself!
