Dan Taylor
Audit Associate
Dan Taylor started out in external audit roles and joined Financial Progression to pursue his special interest in the marketing industry.
Interview: Background and Approach
Who I am and what makes me tick.
What prompted you to start a career in marketing contract compliance?
My goals were to build a challenging but rewarding career and to become a top professional in my field, which led me to specialise in an in-demand niche area. Marketing is intriguing and continuously evolving, it is an essential element for businesses to grow efficiently. Extensive marketing knowledge is usually confined to individuals involved in the industry and therefore it can be very difficult for an outsider to understand. A role as a Marketing Contract Compliance Specialist ticks all the boxes allowing me to use my knowledge, expertise and strengths to help clients, which provides for a very satisfying career.
How has your previous experience helped you at Financial Progression?
Starting out in external audit provided me with the foundations to be successful at Financial Progression. Interacting with stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds whilst developing relationships enabled the efficient gathering of information and allowed me to build rapport. Analysing and testing data developed an eye for detail and the ability to apply professional scepticism appropriately. This allowed me to follow matters up with stakeholders effectively and conclude matters accurately and in a timely fashion. There are many parallels between my past experiences and those at Financial Progression; at the forefront is the client focused nature of the roles.
Which part of your work gives you the greatest sense of achievement?
Knowing and seeing first hand that the result of my work is having a significant impact on clients is very rewarding. Personally, I want to be the best at what I do and producing high quality work gives me a sense of accomplishment. However, collaborating with a team of like-minded people toward a common goal and sharing the success, enhances the overall achievement.
How would people describe you?
People would likely describe me as a combination of fun but serious, and someone who engages and brings a lively energy to interactions, whether in the work or social setting. They would also describe me as outgoing, always willing to help, hardworking, and resilient. Many would consider me to have a high level of attention to detail and I am often called a perfectionist however, I just like things to be correct.
What motivates you to do what you do?
I believe if you do something you should do something right and to the best of your ability. I am competitive therefore, I strive to reach my maximum potential in whatever I do, and I enjoy it when I receive recognition for my efforts. I also believe in being fair, so it is highly rewarding when you pair meaningful work with delivering this principle. I am also motivated by helping others, whatever shape or form, and I take great satisfaction when my actions result in other people’s happiness.
What can you be found doing when you’re not at work?
I enjoy being active and working out, so spending early mornings at the gym and playing sports such as football and golf are non-negotiable. I also love being outdoors and in nature, and have a lot of fun with my King Charles Cavalier called Ivy. I also like to make things, so I am attracted to activities like cooking and DIY which has recently developed as a favourite hobby of mine.