WHAT DO YOU DO?

My job is to help some of the country’s most innovative businesses get access to funding from the Government for their research and development programmes. This means deep diving into their projects, learning about what they do and speaking with a wide range of people from scientists and engineers to project managers and finance directors to uncover the technical and financial details that make their work eligible for R&D credits.

It’s a role that requires curiosity, commercial awareness, knowledge of legislation and the ability to translate complex ideas into something HMRC can understand.

WHY DO YOU DO IT?

I have a master’s degree in marine engineering and a keen interest in business and innovation. I really enjoy being able to work with a wide range of clients in different sectors and areas of technology and see the cutting edge of technological innovation in the UK.

Like many of us, I fell into this career as a graduate and, more than 10 years in, I’m still learning and having to work hard to keep up with the pace of change in both the legislation we work with as well as the technologies our clients develop.

WHAT KIND OF PROJECTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVLOVED IN?

I’ve worked with some fantastic clients over the years, and my favourite part of the job is going on site visits to see what they’re developing in person. I’ve had factory tours from some of the most knowledgeable people in their fields and seen technologies that few others get to see.

I have a particular interest in the defence sector and have worked with multiple different clients who developed systems for the Royal Navy’s aircraft carriers, and this culminated in a site visit where I was able to stand right at the edge of the enormous dock where they were built – amazing!

WHAT’S ON THE TOP OF YOUR BUCKET LIST?

One day, I would like to design my own self-sufficient eco-home. I love architecture and the outdoors and would look for ways to combine traditional living with sustainable technologies.