“I enjoy being able to solve problems by offering practical commercial solutions which are tax efficient whilst minimising risk.”

Simon is one of ETC’s Associate Directors. He has been a tax adviser for 23 years and is a fellow of the ICAEW. Simon works across all areas of tax advisory, but has a particular interest in mergers & acquisitions and corporate reorganisations.

Life before ETC

Before joining ETC, Simon spent the first ten years at Big 4 firms, Pricewaterhouse Coopers and KPMG. Simon left the big 4 to join a regional independent practice where he was Head of Tax and also a business owner.

After selling his interest in the practice, Simon was appointed Tax Director at CLB Coopers (which was acquired by the Baldwins group) where he split his time heading up their Lancaster Office’s tax department and also being an integral part of their North West tax advisory team.

Simon’s enjoyed a brief but enjoyable period at Dow Schofield Watts, where he ran his own tax consultancy business, prior to being approached by ETC.

Why a career in tax?

I am a logical thinker, love attention to detail and problem solving. Didn’t fancy being an auditor and the higher salary for tax graduates was appealing!

My best (and worst) bits

One of the aspects I enjoy most about is meeting clients and listening to them talk about their businesses and their aspirations. I enjoy hearing what keeps them awake at night and enjoy being able to solve problems by offering practical commercial solutions which are tax efficient whilst minimising risk.

My main weakness (so I am told) is that I can be a little introvert in certain situations and try to fit too many hobbies in outside of work. I think my wife thinks I’m obsessed with running and football.

Three words to describe ETC

Endeavouring To Contribute

Alternative career choice

Professional Golfer