Aim: “I enjoy the challenge of keeping clients and colleagues focused to help them achieve their goals.” Expertise: Business compliance services, trusts & estates and company secretarial services. Work and Clients: As well as managing the business over the last 9 years John has extensive experience in accounts and auditing, both UK and international. He specialises in adding value for small and medium sized enterprises for clients in sectors such as retail, manufacturing and information technology, as well as some not-for-profit organisations. The route to Shipleys: Qualified as a chartered accountant with Longcrofts and joined Shipleys in 1978. He became a principal in 1981 and was Managing Principal from 1998 to 2007. Memberships: Board member of AGN International Ltd (2004-2006), Chairman of AGN International - Europe Ltd (2003-2006), Member and Chairman of AGN European Audit Taskforce, AGN Europe’s Quality Assurance Group and AGN International’s Quality Assurance Committee at various times between 1996 and 2006.

Most entertaining deal or case: “Acting as treasurer and secretary of the King George V Fund, a charitable fund for actors and actresses, where I have met a variety of well-known personalities. Being involved in the set up of an exhibition on the history of British Royalty; on the day of the deadline for submitting the registration prospectus I had to walk the papers to Companies House at 11:59 pm!” What I like about my job: “I really enjoy the sheer variety of challenges which I face on a daily basis. I enjoy building long term relationships with my clients and still look after a substantial proportion of those I had when I first became a principal.” Proudest professional moments: “Becoming Managing Principal of Shipleys and the firm being cited in Accountancy Age as an example of good growth. Being elected Chairman of AGN Europe Ltd at a time of real growth in our work in Europe.” Interests outside work: “I am a tenor soloist and member of my local choral society and sing at Chelmsford Cathedral. I also play the trumpet and am a director of the Spitalfields Festival of Music. I am currently the Prime Warden of The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths.”