In Conversation with Stuart Bates

The lead partner at our Abingdon office, Stuart is composed and highly experienced, working to lead his skilled and talented team of accountants, auditors and associates. As both a chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser Stuart’s knowledge is wide ranging and he is a real asset to the firm, and to his clients, who often remark on his willingness to help and assist them no matter the issue. To get to know Stuart better we asked him a few questions about how he got to this point in his career and what motivates him in his role within the firm:

1. What do you enjoy most about your job?
   Building long term relationships, assisting clients to grow their businesses, streamline their processes and save tax. Also, working with a great team of colleagues. No two days are the same. The clients I deal with are diverse and all have their individual needs.
2. What has been the defining moment in your career to date?
   Firstly, passing my professional qualifications (becoming a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Advisor). Then, being appointed a partner at a relatively young age in the Abingdon office with a brief to grow the office.
3. Who would be the dream client?
   I look after a large range of clients and enjoy getting to know them, in particular their individual requirements. It is always highly rewarding when existing clients refer their friends, family and colleagues to us.
4. How would you want your colleagues or clients to describe you?
   AHA! Approachable, Hardworking, Attentive (and a good sense of humour!)
5. What do you most want to achieve in your career?
   Wenn Townsend was founded in 1876. I am proud to be part of the firm’s history of giving clients good accounts and taxation advice.