A Champion accountant who joined the advisory group as a Trainee 16 years ago has been promoted to the role of Associate Director.
Nathan Jones, who joined Champion Accountants at the age of 19, will be tasked with growing the group’s Chester practice by focusing on its business development strategy and acting as client lead for some of its biggest customers.
Having served as client manager since July 2018, Nathan says he’s ready to take on a new challenge.
He said: “Throughout the last 16 years, the Champion team have been hugely encouraging when it comes to me progressing my career. They’ve created opportunities which have enabled me to take on new responsibilities, broaden my skillset and gain the relevant experience I needed to be awarded a senior position.
“Now I’ve achieved that, my job is to repay their loyalty to me by futureproofing our business. As well as expanding our client portfolio, I aim to be on the pulse of the industry, identifying gaps in the market, new software and innovative processes that will enable us to remain a market leader – whilst ensuring we continue to provide our clients with the highest quality of service possible.”
Nathan achieved his ACCA qualification in 2013 while working full-time with Champion Accountants – something he says is demonstrative of the way the company nurtures and develops budding young talent.
He said: “Champion supported me throughout my ACCA exams, ensuring I could strike a balance between my usual, day-to-day duties and studying. Being able to achieve the qualification so early in my career was hugely beneficial and is a milestone I look back on with pride.
“But more than that, it’s an example of how Champion commits itself to create the best possible future for its people. Professional development is really important, and is embedded into the culture of Champion and anyone who demonstrates they want to progress their career will have their hard work rewarded. For the last few years, I’ve overseen training for our newest recruits, and it’s been superb to pay that back to the group.
“Champion’s platinum status with ACCA means the company is recognised as a quality employer and it speaks volumes about our approach to people. Doors will always be opened for those who perform highly, and everyone has the chance to carve out a career for life – just like I’ve done.”
Andrew Hopwood, director at Champion Accountants, said: “Nathan’s progression is down to his hard work, determination and ability to foresee where the industry is heading. So much has changed in accountancy and advisory since he joined us, but he has always pushed our business forwards, ensuring we remain ahead of our competition, earmarked as the best employer and lead the charge when it comes to modern-day practices. With Nathan in his new role, there’s no limit to our capabilities.”
