Jay Rickards FMAAT AATQB

 Hi, I'm Jay and the Founder of Hi Altitude. 

My background.

 I have worked in accounting for over 20 years for various types of businesses.

My first accounting job was for a national furniture manufacturer, then an award winning Legal software and training provider. I took some time out after my second Son to do wedding photography with my Mums business which was amazing rewarding work while I navigated part time working (which wasn't easy to find back in 2008!). Following that I worked for Energy and waste brokers, then Mortgage, pension and investment advisors and the Building Trade and Charities.

Over the years, working with so many different industries, I've loved learning about different business structures and tackling the demands each one comes with. Enjoying the variety and different dynamics of each contributes to why and how Hi Altitude was founded. 

 After fully completing the AAT diplomas and becoming a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians, I realised there was so much more I wanted to study to benefit my knowledge and experience.

I went on to my Chartered Accountancy studies with ACCA, one of the worlds top global professional accounting bodies and have gained my Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business, as well  as the Ethics and professional skills module certification. 

As well as running Hi Altitude, I also work with a local charity and am Finance Director for a Carpentry/building business, both here in Rutland. 

Key objectives

 My key passion in accounting has always been in helping companies to understand key figures and looking for what lies ahead in terms of profits and cash flows. I'm a firm believer that the clearer the bottom line is (where you're at and where you're going), the more successful you'll  be in making the right decisions. Using accounting software and excel, there's always a way. With experience in Sage, Xero, Quickbooks and as an excel pro, I can find and work with what's right for you.     

COVID brought many new challenges to businesses and accountants.  Following that, the recession. In these stringent and worrying times, it's more important than ever to look after our finances. Too many companies have sadly folded. With careful planning and help from professionals, there  is help available willing you to succeed.  

I understand that individuals and businesses have different budgets and goals. It's important to me to understand clients and work with them to reach those goals whatever they may be. Whether that is in an accounting package or some one off/ as and when help, it's important to be flexible.

There's always something new to learn from both sides and building a good relationship with clients is key to forming the respect and trust for working together long term.         

Some personal stuff about me

I'm lucky to be Mum to 2 gorgeous Sons who are now teens. I love spending time with them and my partner and going on adventures together. Catching up with family & friends is a must, with roast dinners and wine nights frequently on the agenda. 

I've always enjoyed keeping fit and swimming, though it's often taken a bit of a backseat with life's other priorities. I learned to wakeboard and snowboard in recent years and I've got to say that mountain air is Mwah! **chefs kiss** for the soul!

I'm always up for a good walk for some fresh air, though my boys often find this quite boring.

I read a lot at home. This tends to be more for work than pleasure, but it's lovely to get lost in a good novel when I can with my cats (2) or dog on my lap and a good cup of tea (or glass of wine).   

I love cooking, anything creative like art. My nerd hobby is crocheting and have a slight addiction to nice shoes. 

Dessert island essentials would be a good bikini, a hammock, malbec, chocolate and cheese!