Aim: “To help clients get the most from their business opportunities so as to achieve their personal goals.” Expertise: Business compliance services, Corporate recovery services. Work and Clients: Steve takes great pride in being the first person many of his clients will call when they need help. He relishes his role as a sounding board and has a substantial network of contacts which enable him to bring in additional expertise when it is needed. He helps clients with strategic business issues such as acquisitions which enhance the business, advice which is valued whether the client is an owner-manager or listed on AIM. The route to Shipleys: Trained with a small practice in Baker Street before cutting his teeth on audits for a couple of years at BDO Stoy Hayward. Joined Rothman Pantall in 1981, becoming a partner in 1984. The London office of Rothman Pantall merged with Shipleys in 2007. Memberships: Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales Association of Business Recovery Professionals Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

Most entertaining deal or case: The appointment as receiver of a mediaeval castle that had been converted into a hotel. When the owners found out that I was about to be appointed they locked themselves in the hotel and spent the whole day drinking the contents of the wine cellar, leaving me sitting in the drive. I thought at the time, that is exactly what I would do. What I like about my job: “Being at the 'centre of the web' and seeing good advice lead to good results.” Proudest professional moments: “As receiver of a large tour operator, I followed a hunch which resulted in the sale of a subsidiary to management for over £350,000. The MD had offered £1 on the day we were appointed, explaining that the company was hopelessly bust. I took the last flight of the day to Northern Ireland in order to be waiting in a coffee shop to confront the managing director when he unlocked the office first thing the following morning. He had failed to mention that the company had not been operating VAT properly and a refund of some £300,000 was imminent.” Interests outside work: Steve is a fanatical Arsenal fan, has held a season ticket for over 15 years and especially enjoys supporting the team in European competitions. He plays golf but is perhaps best at the 19th hole! Steve owns and sails a catamaran, although this is currently “moored” in his front garden rather than at a swanky marina!