This week’s employee interview is with Mark Crisp, Manager in Cleckheaton. Mark has been with BHP on a permanent basis for eight years and is a member of our Audit and Charities teams. Read on to find out more about Mark’s work at BHP as well as his hobbies and interests outside of work.
Tell us about how and when you joined BHP
I joined Clough and Company (which later joined BHP) in August 2013 on a placement year from university. This allowed me a great opportunity to make sure I was working for a company that fit with my goals and priorities. After finishing university, I returned to BHP in August 2015 on the graduate training programme and have since completed my ACA (Chartered Accountancy) and DChA (Diploma in Charity Accounting) qualifications.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Personally, I would say that the time I spend meeting new and existing clients, along with the time invested in mentoring our staff to improve their technical and soft skills, are the best things about my job.
Who are you inspired by?
At work, I’ve always had a great deal of respect for the managers and partners I have worked for. Their support and mentoring is very much appreciated and I consider myself fortunate to have always felt like they have my back.
Outside of work, I’m very fortunate to have a very supportive and encouraging family. They’ve always helped me to achieve a balance between working hard and not giving up when things get tough but, most importantly, trying to be a good person!
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I’ve always loved flying, so I wanted to join the RAF. Unfortunately, poor eyesight (glasses!) got in the way of that, and so I somehow stumbled into accountancy.
What are your hobbies?
I’m quite competitive and I enjoy playing lots of different sports such as golf, squash, badminton, tennis and snooker – but not necessarily to a high standard!
I’m unfortunately a Bradford City season ticket holder, and we’re still stuck in the doldrums of League Two!
All my family are very musical and I play trumpet/cornet and piano. In the past, I have played in both local and national music organisations, and I’ve played in many concerts across the UK and abroad (including Italy, Austria and the USA).
Do you have any hidden talents?
Aside from my music, apparently playing darts! Neil Baldwin (Director at BHP) and I recently won a darts networking event organised by a local financial services company, beating 36 other teams to win!
If you could learn something new and money was no object, what would it be?
I would probably learn to fly!
What do you prefer – a TV series, book, or film? What are your favourites?
I’m currently watching the Big Bang Theory (having previously only seen the occasional episode) and I do seem to have developed a little bit of an addiction!
Where is the best place you have ever visited and why?
Stresa, which is located on Lake Maggiore in Northern Italy, has to be a favourite. It has great weather, scenery, and food!
