Ashley’s Story

Ashley joined Private Client Salisbury in June 2018.

What attracted you to Parker Bullen?

Parker Bullen and my previous firm are similar in size. What attracted me to Parker Bullen is their substantial client base and plans for growth. The firm has been established for over 200 years and their client base really reflects that; they have families who have been clients for generations and this provides a significant variety of work for a Private Client lawyer. As I also specialise in tax and the firm is keen to adapt and expand their tax practice, it seemed to be the perfect fit for me.

I considered Parker Bullen against larger national tax and law firms having previously also received offers from firms in London and Southampton. I enjoy working at medium size firms the most as I feel it is easier to offer clients a more personal service. As an employee I know I can make a real difference at the firm. I feel like my ideas are considered and valued and in Private Client we have a great team that fits and works really well together.

How would you describe Parker Bullen in a sentence?

Parker Bullen is a long established firm, ambitious for growth and determined to provide a full and personal service to clients.

What do you wish you’d known about Parker Bullen before you joined?

Nothing comes to mind. Naomi, Gareth and Tim, who interviewed me, represented the firm and job opening very well and I have not had any surprises!

How has your career developed in your time at Parker Bullen?

I have been here for just over a year and have settled in very well. I am pleased that I have already built an interesting and varied base of clients. I have discussed my career prospects with Naomi and Gareth and have every confidence in being able to develop and progress my career here in the future.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I most enjoy meeting and advising clients. I particularly enjoy the challenge of giving complex advice and problem solving and there are plenty of opportunities for both at Parker Bullen.

Can you give an example of piece work you have done which you have found particularly rewarding?

One particular family comes to mind. The firm advises on their c. £15million farming estate. A previous partner of the firm dealt with a significant amount of tax planning work for the parents, who have since died, and I am instructed by the next generation of the family to structure the arrangements and ownership to suit their personal and family circumstances.

What is the toughest part of the job?

Private Client departments are always very busy, so you have to keep on your toes all the time. You never know what new challenge is going to be presented by our clients. Our team is structured so that we are as efficient as possible with work carried by the right level of staff. The firm invests in technology to help. Even so, it can be a challenge to keep the workload at a balanced level. However, it is rewarding and ensures we can reach our full potential and keep learning and developing. We don’t have time to sit back and twiddle our thumbs!

What do you like about working in Salisbury/Andover?

I live in Eastleigh so have a bit of a commute but I don’t mind that. Salisbury has good train links and by the time I get home I have forgotten all about work!

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