Conor O'Sullivan

I joined Haines Watts back in August 2016 through a firm merger and have seen the Bristol office grow from 20 to 60 staff members. During my time with Haines Watts I have progressed through the firm from Accounts and Audit Junior to Director whilst completing the ACA qualification back in early 2019.

I entered the profession in an unusual way. I did not go to sixth form due to having a football scholarship with Southampton Football Club. Unfortunately, I was released at the age of 18 and had to rethink my career.

I always had a passion for numbers and business studies when I was at school and after looking into potential career paths, becoming an accountant became my first choice. I started my apprenticeship in 2013 whilst studying the AAT qualification and working for a small family run business in Yate.

18 months later I decided to make the change from industry to practice. This transition enhanced my knowledge in the accounting world whilst developing my personal skills as I met a variety of clients working in different industries.

Looking back, undertaking my apprenticeship was one of my best career decisions. I was able to learn on the job, whilst putting my technical knowledge into practical experience and earning a competitive salary.