In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Jonathan Kyle, Ulster chair of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
What was your first job?
I started as a summer placement in the finance department in Phoenix Natural Gas but was kept on for the next year until I started my ACCA qualification. It was my first real experience in an accounts department and some of the skills I picked up have stuck with me throughout my career.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a BSc in accountancy from Queen’s and my fellowship from ACCA.
What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work and an enthusiasm to take on new challenges. I like to take on roles that challenge me. I believe that you always learn something from them, even the setbacks.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I would say I am a fairly sociable person and easy going. I have a keen work ethic and always give my honest opinion.
Who do you look up to in business?
Brian McGuire, who was the partner in the firm in which I trained. He has been running a successful business for over 40 years, developed a strong relationship with his clients and was still very approachable to all members of staff, no matter their role. He was also a strong advocate for ACCA and nominated me to the Ulster panel.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I get the most out of my staff by listening to them, when a staff member feels heard they feel valued. I always think it is important to have regular meetings with staff, this allows ideas to be discussed, opinions aired and creates a better working environment. Sometimes the most innovative ideas come from a simple chat.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
Celebrating our differences. We have a great pool of talent and resourcefulness in Northern Ireland. With the world changing around us this needs to be nurtured and capitalised on. With Covid-19 and Brexit taking its toll on everyone, new and fresh ideas will be key.
What website or app could you not do without?
Skyscanner – though not currently, however hopefully soon this will change and we can be back to travelling and exploring different places again.
What was the last book you read?
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
What car do you drive?
VW Golf.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I love music. I can play several musical instruments and competed in a number of Irish traditional music competitions when I was younger. I am part of an amateur orchestra and got the chance to play with the Ulster Orchestra as part of their come and play event.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Exercise. I love to get outdoors and go running/walking through the country. I find it’s a great way to clear your head and wind down after a day’s work.
