One of our longest-standing employees, Sharon Turner, has more than one reason to celebrate this summer. Not only has she celebrated an important birthday (we’ll leave you guessing which one), she’s been promoted from Accounts Team Leader to Accounts Manager.
We catch up with Sharon to find out what she loves about her job, what her role entails, and in her opinion, why Burnett Barker is such a great place to work.
Sharon, how long have you been at Burnett Barker?
Technically, since 2012 but really, I would consider it to be far longer than this. I joined solicitors Partridge & Wilson at the age of 16 as an office junior before moving into accounts after just six months, which is where I’ve stayed ever since. Partridge & Wilson merged with Burnett Barker Solicitors in October 2012, so I’d say that I’ve been working here since 1988.
I am lucky because I still work with many of the same people who stayed on following the merger. That’s quite a rare thing to say these days.
What does your day-to-day role as Accounts Manager involve?
Although my role has always been accounts-related, it has changed quite a bit over the last few years. I work closely with our Chief Executive, Daryl Griffiths, in managing the financial aspects of the business. Typically, this involves business finance strategy, budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and of course, making sure we look after client monies.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed working with numbers. Also, no two days are the same. There are different priorities at various times in the month. Now, for example, I am preparing payroll. I’m that crazy person who loves a problem. If there’s even the slightest anomaly, I’ll pick it up and fix it.
What training have you received?
I’ve had plenty of training over the years that I’ve worked here. Most recently though, I completed my ILM level 3 Award in Leadership and Management Skills.
The training was useful as I stepped into a more strategic role. After all, I work closely with the entire team. I am the go-to person with regard to any financial queries or updates.
Could you tell us more about the company culture?
We’re a social bunch. After hours, we ordered Domino’s Pizza for my birthday and raised a toast with a glass of prosecco. We’re also partial to the odd BBQ at our office (Daryl’s quite the cook!), we fundraise for charity, and make a big effort at Christmas. In fact, we close for the Christmas holiday so that we can spend time with our families.
Everyone gets on so well. Yes, the work can be challenging, but we pull together. It’s a supportive environment, and fun too. You almost need to brush aside any ideas of what it’s like to work at a law firm when you join Burnett Barker. As a team, we’re all on the same wavelength, and that’s what makes us the relatable law firm that we are!