About Becky
I am a partner in the business team at Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. My primary role is working with owner managers, advising on how they can achieve their business goals, and, of course, making sure all their compliance requirements are dealt with. I have worked at Larking Gowen since joining as a trainee in 1997 and I am passionate about developing others and securing the future of the firm.
We asked Becky to look back and reflect on his younger self
Q&A’s
How would you describe yourself at 18?
Lacking in commitment to my studies – my A level results were not as planned! I was more concerned with having fun with friends and was not disciplined in studying for exams. At the time, my exam results felt like a disaster. I wish I had known that it would be ok. As the parent of an 18-year-old, I encourage her to grab all the opportunities she is given, work hard and have fun, take (calculated) risks, and don’t worry too much about having it all planned out.
What inspired you to become a partner in the firm?
I wanted to lead and influence the direction of the business as an owner. The role is challenging but very rewarding. As partners we are stewards of the business, committed to continuing the success of Larking Gowen for future partners.
If you could go back knowing what you know now, what three things would you tell yourself to do when you first became a partner?
- Have a plan and break it down into manageable chunks so you can hold yourself to account.
- Find yourself a coach. Investing time in developing yourself is invaluable.
- Believe in yourself as much as others believe in you. I didn’t become a partner by accident -others saw it in me.
What are the biggest lessons you have learnt professionally?
- Not everyone thinks like me – perhaps obvious, but an important thing to remember when you are working in partnership with others.
- Take risks. Don’t wait as it may mean you miss opportunities.
- People want to know that you care about them. Taking an interest in them, their family, and their business really matters.
How did you deal with a big mistake, and what did you learn from the experience?
By confronting it. I can be my worst critic, and if I don’t deal with a mistake promptly, it will grow into something in my head that seems insurmountable. I have learned to be honest and ask for help when out of my depth – don’t keep digging.
What are your ambitions for the future?
To be a senior partner, supporting others who have the potential and desire to take our business forward as future partners. In our fast-changing profession, where technology can do so much, we must focus on developing our skills of empathy, understanding, and commerciality.
What does the future have in store for you personally?
I am excited to see my daughter continue with her studies, graduate from university, and find her way in the world. Now she is an adult, I have more time for hard work and lots of fun. There is absolutely room for both!
