The Hazlewoods Veterinary team is made up of individual people that work together towards a common goal. In these series, we are putting the spotlight on some of them, so you can get to know us better. The seventh person in our series is Associate, Sean Cook.
How did your career with Hazlewoods start and develop?
I joined Hazlewoods in 2017 as a trainee in the Veterinary team. Alongside working towards professional qualifications, I initially did a lot of accounts preparation, VAT and management accounts to get a good grounding. I later got a lot of experience in preparing completion accounts for veterinary practices selling to corporates and assisted generally with the process.
I now work in a Corporate Finance role, where I help veterinary practices prepare valuations, go through the sales process, assist with the due diligence process as well as other ad hoc areas such as cash flow projections.
How has the firm changed since you joined?
I have seen the firm really embrace technology over the last 4 years going from a point where everything was on a paper file, to being virtually paperless these days. In many ways, it feels like we are a much slicker and more efficient firm always with an eye on the next change.
I also have noticed a big focus on going the extra mile for clients. The statutory work is clearly as important as ever, but I have seen the efforts colleagues make in going beyond this for clients by providing strategic support and advice.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I love being able to contribute to a service that is valuable to clients. It is important to me that what I do can genuinely make a difference. Considering to sell a business is a critical time for any business owner and it is very motivating to help guide them through their journey.
What is the best career lesson you have learned so far?
To be inquisitive and always strive to learn new things. To me, delivering a good service and excelling in my career means never standing still. I never want to feel 100% comfortable as I think a challenge helps drive better performance.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
Passing all of my exams first time is a good achievement, but especially challenging when looking after and raising a new-born for the final year. Those sleepless nights were tough, but he helped spur me on in the end!
What is something you learned in the last week?
Not necessarily something I learned but in the past week I have really noticed the importance of balance in my working life. It is so essential to, not only work really hard, but also to look after your mind and body. I am now trying to dedicate at least a small part of my day to looking after myself, be that by exercising, mindfulness or something else. Being kind to yourself makes you feel better and more productive in the longer run.
Who would you most like to meet and why?
I grew up supporting Arsenal and naturally idolised Thierry Henry. I spent countless hours re-watching his goals and tricks, so it would be incredibly nostalgic to meet him!
Tell us something we might not know about you?
I come from a big family, being the eldest of 10!