Richard’s story: From graduate trainee to Director

Richard’s story: From graduate trainee to DirectorWritten on September 18, 2026 by Kirk Rice LLP

Richard | Director – Accounting & Audit

Richard joined Kirk Rice as a graduate trainee in 2016 and is now a Director in our Putney office. His career story highlights his progression through the firm, the opportunities and support that have helped him develop, and why strong client relationships are such an important part of accountancy.

When did you join Kirk Rice?

I joined Kirk Rice in 2016 as a graduate trainee and qualified as an ACA in 2019. I progressed to Client Manager in 2021, Senior Manager in 2022, and Director in 2025.

What has helped you progress in your career?

Colleagues, opportunity—such as my move to Putney—experience in the role, and training, such as the management training and leadership course, have helped me progress.

What do you do currently at Kirk Rice?

I am a Director in the general practice team in Putney, with overall responsibility for the Putney audit portfolio.

My role includes managing and developing the audit team, including Senior Manager direct reports, and overseeing a portfolio of general practice clients. I also lead audit engagements and ensure quality and compliance, review and challenge processes, promote best practice and continuous improvement, and build and maintain strong client relationships.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

What I enjoy most is interacting with colleagues and clients alike and building relationships. I also enjoy problem-solving.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in accountancy?

In terms of advice for someone considering a career in accountancy, I would tell them that accountancy really isn’t about being great at manipulating numbers—although it can help.

For me, the most important part of the job is the relationships you build with clients, particularly as you progress throughout your career. It is a client-facing role, and we are providing a service, so the client relationship can be incredibly important.

Get in touch

Richard’s experience across audit and general practice allows him to understand clients’ businesses, build strong working relationships, and help solve the issues they face. He is supported by colleagues with expertise across accountancy, audit, tax, and financial planning.

To discuss how Kirk Rice could support you or your business, contact us at info@kirkrice.co.uk

Simon Papworth

I have used Kirk Rice for nearly 20 years, for two businesses, numerous purchases of other businesses and two business sales, all our personal Tax and a tremendous amount of business and personal advice. My number one place to get advice from, and a trusted advisor.

stephen fox

I would highly recommend Jane Page We had an extensive tax return including pensions sale of property abroad rental income and earnings Jane explained very clearly and precisely the return and how it was calculated .. We had plenty of time to get the information and Jane was always on hand to explain the next step Thanks Stephen

Paterson MB

Kirk Rice's accountants have been patient, thorough, and knowledgable in helping me with my tax return.

Guy

I have been using Kirk Rice for over 20 years for my personal tax returns. The team provide me with a clear layout of items, so I fully understand how my tax bill is calculated, with all the relevant tax allowances included. If I have any queries on the figures (which is very rare), they are always keen to explain how the figures were calculated. I highly recommend Kirk Rice’s services …. Good to know I have fully verified records being sent to the HMRC.

Len Ve

I have been a client of Kirk Rice LLP for almost 20 years and always appreciated their very professional, efficient and timely assistance in all matters of personal taxation. Their advisers are very friendly and capable to discuss and explain rather complex issues in clear terms.

Nalini Patel

The Kirk Rice team are very professional, we have used the Financial Advisory and Tax Advice teams and are very pleased with the service provided. They were also great at chasing us for information without being too pushy!

ian turner

I have dealt with Kirk Rice over the last 20 years with various companies that I have been involved with, I have always found them to be proactive and knowledgeable in all elements of taxation corporate and personal affairs.

Louise Bradford

Amanda has been dealing with my tax issues for the past few years, and has made the whole experience totally stress free with her efficiency, knowledge and can do attitude. They are simply a lovley company to deal with. Bev T

Rob Ambler

I have been using Kirk Rice for over ten years, to handle both personal (Amanda Giles) and corporate tax affairs (Sarah Goodwin). I have always found them friendly and efficient, and their advice has been excellent.

Matt Bishop

I have been very well looked after by Amanda Giles and the rest of the Kirk Rice team for many years now. They always sort out my tax return efficiently, promptly, and courteously, and I would therefore have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending them.

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