David and Julia Forrester joined TaxAssist Accountants in 2009 and now have one of the largest practices in the network with over 1600 clients. They operate the practice from shops in Skipton, Ilkley, Keighley and Bingley in West Yorkshire alongside their staff members, after transitioning the business to employee ownership. Here David explains more about his journey with TaxAssist Accountants.
Can you tell us about your professional background and what you were doing before joining TaxAssist Accountants?
I qualified as an accountant and spent the first part of my career working in industry in the UK and abroad. I worked at senior level in US owned companies, before deciding to leave and build a TaxAssist practice in my early 30s. I always enjoyed building relationships with customers and support large teams and I wanted the opportunity to run my own business and create a firm that reflected my own values and approach to client service.
Before joining TaxAssist Accountants, I was considering different routes into practice ownership. I knew I wanted the independence of running my own business, but I also recognised the value of having the right support, systems and brand behind me.
What attracted you to the TaxAssist Accountants franchise, and what made you decide it was the right move for you?
The combination of independence and support was the biggest attraction. TaxAssist enabled me to own and grow my own accountancy practice while benefiting from an established brand, proven systems and ongoing technical and marketing support. I also liked the fact that TaxAssist had a strong focus on serving local small businesses and individuals. The shopfront model particularly appealed to me because it made accountancy services accessible and visible within the local community.
For someone starting or growing a practice, having access to specialist support, training and a network of experienced franchisees significantly reduces many of the challenges that come with running a business on your own.
What does a typical day look like for you as a TaxAssist Accountants franchisee?
A typical day may involve meeting existing and prospective clients, reviewing accounts and tax work, supporting members of the team, discussing business planning with clients and looking at ways to improve our internal systems and processes.
As our practice has grown, I now spend more time focusing on leadership, strategy and business development, helping the team deliver excellent service while continuing to invest in technology and efficiency improvements.
How would you describe demand for your services in your local area?
Demand remains very strong. Small businesses continue to face increasing complexity around tax, compliance and digital reporting requirements, and many business owners value having a trusted adviser who can provide both technical expertise and commercial guidance.
We have seen consistent growth over many years and continue to attract new clients through recommendations, online enquiries and people visiting our shops. There is always demand for accountants who are approachable, responsive and focused on helping clients achieve their goals.
How has having a shop impacted your visibility and business growth?
Having shops has been one of the key factors in building the practice.
The visibility it creates within the local community is invaluable. People regularly walk past our offices, see the TaxAssist brand and know exactly where they can go for accounting and tax advice. Many new clients come to us because they have seen the shop repeatedly and feel comfortable approaching us when they need help.
The shopfront also reinforces trust and professionalism. It provides a welcoming environment where clients can meet us face-to-face and develop long-term relationships with our team.
What have been the biggest highlights or proudest moments since becoming a TaxAssist Accountant?
There have been many highlights over the years, but growing the business from a start-up into a multi-office practice has been incredibly rewarding.
I am particularly proud of the team we have built and the opportunities we have created for people to develop their careers. We have invested heavily in apprenticeships and training, helping team members progress through professional qualifications and grow into key roles within the business.
Another major milestone was transitioning the business to employee ownership, ensuring that the employees who contribute to our success share in the benefits of that success.
Most importantly, I am proud of the positive impact we have had on thousands of local businesses and individuals by helping them navigate their financial and tax affairs with confidence.
How has the support from TaxAssist Accountants helped you grow your practice?
The support has been invaluable throughout the journey.
Having access to technical expertise, marketing resources, training programmes and a network of experienced practice owners has allowed us to grow with confidence. Whether dealing with complex tax matters, implementing new technology or adapting to regulatory changes, there is always support available.
The strength of the brand has also helped us build credibility in the marketplace and attract new clients from day one.
What are your plans for the future?
Our focus is on continuing to grow while maintaining the high levels of service that our clients value. As I start to think about retirement planning for succession is important with staff undertaking further personal development to equip them for the years to come.
We will continue investing in our people, technology and systems so that we can operate more efficiently and provide an even better client experience. We also see opportunities to expand our advisory services and support clients with a broader range of business and financial needs.
Ultimately, we want to remain the first choice for accounting and tax services within our local communities.
What would you say to someone considering joining the TaxAssist Accountants network?
If you want to run your own accountancy practice but would benefit from proven systems, experienced support and a recognised brand, then TaxAssist is well worth considering.
You still have the freedom and responsibility of running your own business, but you are not doing it alone. The network provides access to expertise, training and shared experience that would take years to build independently.
For me, it has been a highly rewarding journey, both professionally and personally, and it has enabled me to build a successful practice while remaining focused on delivering great service to local clients.
