In our latest Meet the Team interview, we spoke to Senior Audit Manager Tom Bell to find out more about his role and responsibilities at BHP as well as what he enjoys doing outside work.
When did you join BHP?
I joined Clough & Company LLP in October 2010, where I trained and qualified as a Chartered Accountant. They became part of BHP in 2015 and I joined the York office in 2016, where I have been ever since, so it will be 13 years this year – lucky or unlucky, some may say!
What does your day-to-day role involve?
As a Senior Manager in the Audit and Accounts team, I manage a varied portfolio of clients which includes different sectors in the SME space, Charity and Not-for-Profit clients and other specialist areas. I mainly manage client and staff relationships and the audit process, as well as signing off the accounts/audit. I also get involved in ad-hoc advisory work on clients where required.
As part of my role, I line manage several staff and help them develop in their role. I’m also involved in helping internally to deliver projects such as training and development for the Audit team.
I am an ICAEW Council Member for York and West Yorkshire, where I represent the members of the region and feed in to to help shape the profession, as well as discuss key industry issues.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every day is different – that’s what I like the most. It makes the job enjoyable and interesting, and keeps you on your toes. I enjoy working together on the relationships we forge with clients, and when they achieve their objectives, it gives you a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
Who are you inspired by?
My role model and inspiration outside of work is Kevin Sinfield. He’s a leader with empathy, a sense of purpose and direction, and someone you would always want by your side in any situation. He represents what it is to be a good, decent human being.
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I was born in Bradford and grew up in Bramley, where I have lived to this day. I went to Bramley St Peters Primary School, on to high school at Crawshaw in Pudsey and then studied Mathematics at the University of Leeds, graduating in 2009.
What do you do to unwind after a day in the office?
After a day in the office, there is nothing better than a run or walk. I can digest what’s happened during the day, wind down and refresh, ready to start again the next day.
What do you enjoy doing outside work?
Outside of work I love rugby league, running, walking and the occasional cold-water dip. I usually run three to four times a week and I am part of a running club, Bramley Breezers, where I lead runs as a Leader in Running Fitness. If I’m not doing that, I’m normally watching and volunteering at my local rugby league club, Stanningley, where I acted as Treasurer for 12 years.
If there’s any free time left after that, then you can usually find me out exploring the countryside and hill and fell walking, taking in routes where I can enjoy a cold-water dip – an excuse to get out the Budgie Smugglers!
What is the best meal you’ve ever eaten and why?
One of the best was in Agios Stefanos, Corfu, at the wedding of my good friends. I love Greek food and it was cooked to perfection. Views to die for made it even better. Food, drinks, sand, sea and a sunset – stunning and perfect in so many ways.
If you could learn something new and money was no object, what would it be?
I would love to train to be an Airline Pilot. It would be brilliant to have a job that enables you to explore the world and visit different places and cultures. Seeing more of Australia and New Zealand is certainly top of my ‘to do list’.
What might surprise people to learn about you?
I am a qualified Rugby League Match Official and officiated in the professional game for a period of time.
What item can’t you live without?
My running trainers and kit are a must – I always have them with me to get out exploring wherever I am, as running always creates a positive mindset for me.
