The eprivateclient 50 Most Influential is the definitive rankings of the key players in the UK and offshore private client practitioner sector.
To showcase the achievements of those listed this year and to get to know them a bit better, eprivateclient has begun publishing a series of Q&As with our 2021 50 Most Influentials.
This week we hear from BDO's Wendy Walton. Wendy is head of global private client services at BDO and a senior tax partner within the accountancy firm's London tax team. A member of BDO’s leadership team with specific responsibility for partner engagement and development, Wendy has 30 years’ experience, all at BDO, in corporate, personal, inheritance and trust tax...
What have been your proudest personal/team achievements this year?
My proudest personal moment was spending the last couple of hours with my dad when the hospital called me – he passed away from Covid last May and the hospital kindly let me spend that time with him. As regards the team, it is definitely how they have all pulled together and continued to deliver through tough and challenging times.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Challenge myself and believe in myself
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
When I see my clients or teams succeed
What challenges do you see your firm/clients facing in 2021?
How we all get back and respond to the “new normal” will be a challenge
What does being named a 50 Most Influential mean to you?
It makes me feel really proud and we are delighted as a firm to continue to work with and be supported by eprivateclient.
What is the favourite part of your job?
Helping others succeed
What made you choose to focus on private client work?
I like dealing with people, understanding their motivations and building long term relationships
What book/luxury item would you want with you on a desert island?
A notebook – I love making notes! Although, I’d also need a pen – is that allowed?
If you were not in (and it is not) your current role, what would be your dream job?
That’s a tough one – I love what I’m doing.
What’s your favourite hobbies/passions/interests outside of work?
Family, running or walking, reading, travel, live music and our new puppy!
What one piece of advice has benefited you the most in your career?
Just go for it!
