Who and Why?
Meet the YesTax Team
At YesTax, we have a very clearly defined idea of the people we want. Our management team combines an abundance of experience in several specialist areas of taxation with a friendly, approachable client service philosophy. Put simply, we’re good people wanting to work with good people. Our staff embody the culture of the firm and we’re very proud of the team we’ve assembled.
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Mark Wood FCCA
Director -
Rachael Hart
Director -
Natalia Pope BA (HONS), MA Law
Director -
Hayley Kemp
Director -
John Moxon FCA
Founder and Consultant -
Callum Byers ACA CTA
Head of Capital Allowances -
Holly Young FCCA
Senior R&D Tax Consultant -
Chris Norris ATT
Senior R&D Tax Consultant -
James Smith ATT
Senior R&D Tax Consultant -
Megan Blaney ATT
Senior R&D Tax Assistant -
Imogen Williams
R&D Tax Consultant -
Meshaal Qureshi
R&D Tax Assistant -
Melanie Cheshire
Office Manager -
Alison Ralston CTA
Chartered Tax Adviser
Mark Wood FCCA
Director
Mark is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants having qualified in 2010. He has specialised in R&D tax relief since 2010 and to date has presided over no fewer than 500 successful claims, saving his clients tens of millions of pounds in the form of corporation tax relief and R&D tax credits.
As well as R&D tax relief Mark specialises in two further areas of tax relief: Patent Box and Video Games, both since their introduction into the UK corporation tax framework in 2013 and 2014 respectively. One of the first Patent Box claims made by a UK company was prepared by Mark, and to date, several million pounds worth of corporation tax relief has been saved across both of the above schemes under his guidance.
Outside of work Mark enjoys both playing and watching football, although as a Coventry City fan most of the enjoyment tends to come from the playing side of things! He is also a keen runner, having completed many 10Ks and half marathons over the years. A lifetime ambition was realised by Mark in early 2019 as he completed the London Marathon. Mark is a member of Mensa and is currently on a 1,000+ day streak on Duolingo attempting to learn Spanish and Arabic!
Find out more about MarkYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Mark Wood
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A school teacher, specifically a maths teacher. When I was 13 my mum suggested accountancy as a career as, in her words “it also involves numbers but you’ll earn more money” - I never looked back from there!
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Steak pie, halloumi fries and deep fried mars bar, which might kill me anyway.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
No particular occasion springs to mind. I’ve been a little bit worried travelling around some areas of certain countries (Brazil, Venezuela, Egypt, Cabo Verde, Mexico) mainly due to media stereotyping. I’ve always found to the contrary that I have met some of the most amazing people in the world in these places.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
At university I had an unhealthy infatuation with Justin Timberlake. This included multiple posters on my wall and a random *NSync track being used as my morning alarm every day.
Who’s your secret crush?
Victoria Coren Mitchell
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Any craft beer to be honest, including Double IPAs if I’m not planning to drive for a few days!
What’s your pet hate?
Queue jumping, particularly when I’m at the bar! These new order-to-table apps are a game changer!
What’s your favourite place visited?
Luxor in Southern Egypt. Absolutely stacked in history and got to seen Tuten Kamun’s skeleton before it was transferred to the Cairo Museum. I would encourage anybody who is able to do so to go to the Valley of the Kings as a bucket list item.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
It was a no-brainer when I was given the opportunity to own my own business and be in control of my own destiny.
What are you most proud of?
My twin daughters, or the “twins of mass destruction” as they are affectionately known!
Rachael Hart
Director
Rachael qualified as a taxation technician in 2003, working in the tax and accounting field, both in practice and in industry in the early part of her career. In 2011 Rachael became an R&D tax relief specialist at the UK’s first R&D tax advisory firm and has submitted over 400 successful claims. Rachael joined YesTax in 2019 as R&D Tax Manager and in 2023 was appointed as Director.
Outside of work Rachael spends most of her time running around after her two young children! When she gets a moment to herself, Rachael is also a keen runner who has taken part in the Sheffield Half Marathon twice and has participated in various 5K and 10K races. Additionally, Rachael has a keen interest in identifying the best place for afternoon tea and has sampled numerous venues over the past few years. She is always on the lookout for recommendations!
Find out more about RachaelYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Rachael Hart
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Growing up in an era when Challenge Anneka was a firm favourite on a Saturday night, I was in awe of her and wanted to be like her when I grew up.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
A seriously creamy fish pie, followed by a treacle sponge pudding with lashings of vanilla custard.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
I was on holiday in Goa in my early twenties with a friend, our hotel was just off the beaten track, down a little road close to the beach. We were on our way home late one night, just walking down the secluded road when I heard a rustling in the bushes - I was terrified (clinging on to my friend!). As we got nearer it was apparent that there was something moving around in the bushes, turns out it was............a cow out for a stroll!
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
When I was younger, my dad (who was a qualified hairdresser) used to cut my hair so short it made me look like a boy!
Who’s your secret crush?
I have two. Tom Hardy and Chris Hemsworth.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Whitley Neill Quince Gin with a cold Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic.
What’s your pet hate?
Rudeness - manners cost nothing!
What’s your favourite place visited?
San Francisco.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
I am proud to work for a company where charitable giving is at its heart.
What are you most proud of?
I would have to say my two daughters - they drive me to distraction most days, but having them is the best thing I've ever done.
Natalia Pope BA (HONS), MA Law
Director
Natalia qualified as a commercial property lawyer in 2009 and spent 7 years in practice specialising in both freehold and leasehold sales and acquisitions. In 2014, critical changes to the capital allowances legislation were made and it became crucial for parties to pool and transfer available allowances at the time of the legal transaction. Keen to secure these valuable tax savings for her clients, Natalia turned her focus solely to this area. Since then she has worked exclusively with tax advisers and accountants, specialising in incentives and reliefs to secure valuable tax savings for her clients. Natalia’s excellence in this area ensures clients act at the right time, and not only protect, but maximise their tax saving opportunities. Versed in all aspects of R&D and Capital Allowances tax legislation, Natalia will quickly assess the potential and scope for a claim. She is easy to work with and her energetic and friendly personality make her an extremely popular member of the team – she is loved by all that meet her!
Outside of work, Natalia loves the great outdoors and enjoys walking, running, netball and tennis. Natalia is most frequently found on the netball court, where she still plays competitively in the top division of the Sheffield league, and enjoys a play maker role in centre court!
Find out more about NataliaYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Natalia Pope
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Tall. Ideally, 5”9. I played netball and tennis and you have such a sporting advantage with height in both of those games. Unfortunately, I never quite made it.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Easy. Fish, chips and mushy peas. Loads of vinegar, bit of salt.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
A crash landing in a hot air balloon! The trip was arranged in celebration of my Mum’s 40th. On take-off, we were all so giddy with excitement and champagne that no one was interested in the safety brief and recovery position we should adopt in the event of emergency. Needless to say, as the winds whipped up, and landing space proved impossible to find, the emergency we then found ourselves in soon turned the happy occasion into something quite petrifying! Fortunately, there were no severe injuries, but never again!
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I support Chesterfield FC, so I’m otherwise known as a Spireite. In light of their current predicament, I’d say that’s pretty embarrassing!
Who’s your secret crush?
Roger Federer. Charismatic sportsman. Who knew you could fancy a guy in a bandana?!
It’s our round. What you drinking?
A Hendricks gin and tonic with cucumber over ice please.
What’s your pet hate?
Bad customer service.
What’s your favourite place visited?
I just love South America. I had 6 months travelling in-between studying and particularly loved Argentina and Brazil. Truly magnificent places. I only wish I’d had another 6 months to explore more.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
The people. Through my working life I have learnt how important it is to enjoy what you do, and a large part of that is enjoying the team you work with. We all share a common goal; to achieve more, to do things differently, and most of all to get it right.
What are you most proud of?
My little girl, Franceska.
Hayley Kemp
Director
Hayley has worked within the accountancy and tax industry since 2004, specialising solely in R&D tax relief since 2013. Hayley’s most recent post was heading up the Incentives and Reliefs Tax Division for one of the UK’s largest tax consultancy firms. During this time, Hayley handled a vast number of successful claims in a wide range of sectors such as software, engineering, defence and cosmetics. She has also worked closely with numerous accountancy firms to develop seamless partnerships in providing specialist tax services to their clients.
Outside of work, Hayley is kept very busy chasing around after her young children. She is also a passionate cook and loves to try out new recipes on her willing husband when she has the time. Hayley is also a member at her local gym -should she ever decide to go!
Find out more about HayleyYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Hayley Kemp
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A forensic scientist. There was something that interested me about solving a crime - which I put down to my investigative nature. I subsequently turned that interest into investigating differences on a bank reconciliation, which was equally as exciting I suppose (!).
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
It would have to be salt and pepper chicken, couriered from my local Chinese takeaway.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Being lost on a mountain in Switzerland in treacherous snowy conditions. Our guides lost their bearings and we did not have the right equipment or clothing for the conditions. I genuinely believed we would freeze to death - thankfully we lived to tell the tale!
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I am a huge fan of the programme ‘Air Crash Investigation’ and have quite a morbid obsession with plane crash stories.
Who’s your secret crush?
Marcus Wareing – Celebrity Chef. There’s something about a man who can cook!
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Raspberry gin and elderflower tonic (or most gin and tonic combinations for that matter).
What’s your pet hate?
My husband not following my clear instructions…
What’s your favourite place visited?
Thailand. Stunning scenery, interesting culture, amazing food and wonderful people – what more could you ask for.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
It’s not often you get the chance to start and grow a business with a bunch of great, like-minded people, who share a vision. It gives you the opportunity to do things differently, to make a real change and to have fun along the way.
What are you most proud of?
Welcoming my two beautiful children into the world.
John Moxon FCA
Founder and Consultant
John is an ICAEW Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA) who has solely specialised in this area of tax since 2009. He was a Director at the UK’s first R&D tax consultancy firm and his next role saw him head up one of the UK’s largest R&D tax advisory teams. John co-founded YesTax in January 2019 and after the company’s sale to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) in October 2022, he now acts as a consultant. He has advised many of his clients for over a decade and particularly enjoys undertaking HMRC enquiry resolution work. John has written for Taxation Magazine about the problems in the R&D tax advisory market and is a strong advocate for increased regulation within the sector.
Outside of work, John is a proud Sheffield United season ticket holder, having watched his beloved Blades for over 35 years. In his time, John has also been part of several mountaineering expeditions which have taken him to the Himalayas, Andes and beyond. Ascents of Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro (twice!), Elbrus, Muztagh Ata, Cho Oyu, Mont Blanc and Dhaulagiri VII sit proudly on his mountaineering CV. He is the proud father of two young boys, which he often cites as the reason for looking far older than he actually is.
Find out more about JohnYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
John Moxon
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A pilot in the RAF. But at 15 when I started seeing the RAF careers advisers, I suddenly realised what being in the armed forces really meant. I changed my mind at that point.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Black pudding, haggis, three fried eggs and a couple of slices of bread to mop up.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
On a flight from Jammu in northern India, we took off and sucked a large bird into our right engine. The engine failed and the pilot had to bring it round for an emergency landing on one engine. Planes are designed for this, but it was absolutely terrifying.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I have a section of skin on my upper back that looks and feels like a segment of furry dog.
Who’s your secret crush?
The comedian, Rachel Parris. Wonderful.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Something by Cloudwater, Deya or Verdant. Big juicy double IPA, no less than 8% ABV.
What’s your pet hate?
Sheffield Wednesday and their deluded fans. Also the current crop of thieves and liars within the Tory party ‘running’ our country.
What’s your favourite place visited?
Tough one. Can I have three? Argentina, Nepal, Scottish Highlands.
What made you decide to set up YesTax?
I’d specialised in R&D tax relief for just short of ten years and I didn’t want to look back on my career and regret not taking a risk. It was a big decision to walk away from a salary with all the trimmings but it’s a decision that I have no regrets about. The freedom YesTax has given me in my working life is very fulfilling.
What are you most proud of?
Until recently, standing on top of 3 of the world’s 7 continental highest mountains. But these days it’s my two little boys.
Callum Byers ACA CTA
Head of Capital Allowances
Cal graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2014 achieving a 2:1 (BSc) in Mathematics and is a Chartered Tax Adviser (CIOT) and Chartered Accountant (ICAEW).
Having spent 6 years specialising in capital allowances claims at a Big 4 practice, his experience in this area of taxation is vast. Cal has advised a wide range of businesses operating in a variety of sectors, including supermarkets, retailers, leisure chains, hospitality, manufacturing/industrial and aviation. He has an excellent understanding of the regularly shifting capital allowances legislative landscape and is well-versed in advising on multi-million pound capital allowance claims
Following his time at University and prior to his career in tax, Cal worked briefly as an operational manager for Royal Mail, responsible for managing and coordinating a team of c.20 staff as a key part of the sorting and delivery pipeline.
Outside of work Cal is a keen snowboarder and runner, and will rarely miss watching the Formula 1 on a Sunday afternoon. He is always on the lookout for the next sci-fi, fantasy or historical fiction audiobook to keep him company on his commute to the office!
Find out more about CallumYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Callum Byers
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I was dead set on being a fire engine, but my wheels never grew in.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Homemade Mac 'n' Cheese, with BBQ pulled chicken.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Standing in the door of a small and noisy plane, preparing to skydive for my 18th birthday.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I'm severely spooked if a wasp comes anywhere near me.
Who’s your secret crush?
Amanda Seyfried and her excellent singing voice (more from Les Miserables than Mamma Mia).
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Veltins pilsner or another nice lager, maybe an IPA if I'm feeling adventurous.
What’s your pet hate?
When people don't pick up after their dogs in public.
What’s your favourite place visited?
The top of Val Thorens in a blizzard, snowboard in hand, shortly followed by the bar halfway down the mountain, beer in hand.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
After 6 years coming up in the big4 I was ready for a new adventure. Meeting YesTax's amazing team and learning about their unique culture, it was clear it was the opportunity I was looking for.
What are you most proud of?
A fleeting career as a performing musician and wedding drummer, playing across the British Isles.
Holly Young FCCA
Senior R&D Tax Consultant
Holly has specialised in R&D tax relief since June 2015, having been involved in the submission of hundreds of claims. She has wide-ranging knowledge on all aspects of preparing a successful claim and has worked with companies across a wide range of sectors.
Holly started her career working for her family business and thus is highly passionate about helping other SMEs. She has a strong accounting background having achieved a 1st class degree, then going on to complete her ACCA qualification in 2017. As a result of her passion for the subject, she achieved two ACCA prizes. Prior to specialising in tax, Holly worked as an accountant in a medium-sized practice.
Outside of work Holly enjoys spending time with her friends and family, eating out and walking. She is also a keen beekeeper and loves her weekly netball and Zumba sessions.
Find out more about HollyYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Holly Young
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I was keen to become a shop owner, so much so that my dad bought me an actual commercial till. I then started a little business in my bedroom selling refreshments to my siblings - unsurprisingly it didn’t stay open very long!
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
I would love to experience a meal cooked by Heston Blumenthal. However, as I’m on death row and I will have been a rebel anyway, I’m going to cheat on this one and request a fuddle of all my favorite foods.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Exam sittings! Having gone through years of exams I am extremely glad they are now finally over. That gut wrenching moment just before the examiner would say ‘you can start’ always got me.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
During August 2019 I appeared on an episode of BBC Bargain Hunt despite knowing absolutely nothing about antiques. On the show I was nicknamed Holly the Haggler! However, we still managed to make a £101 loss (luckily we still won on the basis we made the smallest loss!).
Who’s your secret crush?
If I told you it would no longer be a secret.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Something really sweet such as a fruity cocktail or an amaretto with cranberry juice (this drink reminds me of a battenberg cake- delicious!).
What’s your pet hate?
Negativity.
What’s your favourite place visited?
This is very hard as I have been fortunate enough to travel to many amazing places. However, I would have to say Maldives as it’s absolutely beautiful!
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
There are many reasons! The charity aspect, the business model, but most of all it’s the team. Having previously worked alongside the directors for many years, I honestly believe they are the best at what they do! I enjoy working in a hardworking, passionate but caring environment, which I believe is at the core of YesTax. You don’t get many places which tick all three of these boxes.
What are you most proud of?
I could go for the obvious and say my academic achievements, but what I’m really most proud of is the people closest to me.
Chris Norris ATT
Senior R&D Tax Consultant
Chris has solely specialised in R&D tax relief since 2014, having left University with a degree in Financial Mathematics. Chris worked his way up from Tax Assistant to Consultant and opted to join YesTax in the summer of 2020. Chris is now a Senior Consultant, providing his expanding client base with sound R&D advice and support. Chris takes a keen interest in complex legislative issues and is regularly found studying the CIRD manual! During his time working in the R&D tax sector, Chris also qualified as a Taxation Technician (ATT).
Outside of the office, Chris’s main interests involve keeping himself active, more often than not on the football pitch. He also loves his golf, running and road cycling (sorry drivers!). His biggest sporting achievement to date was his completion of the Paris Marathon in 2019 where he was able to raise money for both MIND and Sheffield’s local Samaritans Centre.
Having recently taken a keen interest in the armed forces (but not wanting to live the military lifestyle), Chris is also an RAF Reservist and is currently in training to join the RAF Regiment.
Find out more about ChrisYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Chris Norris
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I always wanted to become a Police Officer (more of a Traffic Cop) growing up. I decided however to follow my dad’s footsteps in finance and I’ve now convinced myself that there wouldn’t be a high speed chase that would quite give me the same buzz as reading through R&D legislation.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Anything (and everything) thrown on the BBQ.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Capsizing and sinking my canoe in Vietnam, only for my mates to come round the corner saying they’d seen a school of sharks swimming around in the bay next to where we were. Having frantically flagged a lift back from a local fisherman I was soon made aware the shark story was made up.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I’m not sure half the stories I could put would be allowed on the website (and I’m sure the office would agree), so let’s go with my occasional sleep talking – last week I was asking for an egg mayo sandwich.
Who’s your secret crush?
Extremely tough but my top two are Jürgen Norbert Klopp and Jennifer Aniston.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Malbec. Well, anything red. I take that back, anything wet.
What’s your pet hate?
Ignorant drivers.
What’s your favourite place visited?
After Anfield, I’d probably go with Yosemite National Park.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
Without doubt it’s the people and the culture they have created. The vision they all share, from top to bottom, encapsulates everything I believe a company should strive for.
What are you most proud of?
Running the Paris Marathon – Having had an injury ruin my training schedule only months beforehand, I was terrified of letting down everyone who had sponsored me. The feeling of crossing the finish line was amazing!
James Smith ATT
Senior R&D Tax Consultant
James graduated from the University of York with a degree in Computer Science and has specialised in the field of R&D tax relief since 2019. James’ software industry background has resulted in him being heavily involved in many claims for software companies undertaking a wide range of developments. These includes machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies as well as more traditional types of software development such as backend database integrations. James takes a constant interest in new developments within the software industry, allowing him to understand the way in which these can apply to R&D tax relief claims. James is currently partway through his ATT studies and one day hopes to become a Chartered Tax Adviser.
Outside of the office, James is a keen hockey player and has played since the age of 7. He currently plays for Sheffield University Bankers and is looking forward to a full, uninterrupted season for the first time since moving to Sheffield. As well as hockey, James enjoys the occasional cricket game and is a Blackpool FC fan - so it’s unlikely there will be any office rivalry here!
Find out more about JamesYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
James Smith
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I always loved flying growing up so the thought of being a pilot was fascinating to me. Unfortunately, the closest I have come is a flight simulator but that was a fantastic experience and reignited my passion for flying.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Keep it simple with a thin crust pizza topped with cheese, peppers, chillies and salami (all vegan of course!)
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Hmmm.. no particular event comes to mind. I experienced heavy turbulence on a flight from Amsterdam when I was around 13 which was quite scary but I kept a brave face so my dad didn’t think I was scared.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
Despite being a lifelong Blackpool fan, I was unfortunate enough to have actually been born in Preston.
Who’s your secret crush?
Emma Watson all day long.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Local lager or IPA.
What’s your pet hate?
People who hog the middle lane on the motorway!
What’s your favourite place visited?
Warsaw - a beautiful city.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
The people and the working environment they promote. The company promotes such good values and also provides a wealth of experience within the industry. A company driven by industry experts is one that will always stand out and I believe that is exactly what YesTax does.
What are you most proud of?
Graduating from University will always stand out to me because of the time leading up to it and the relief of finishing a degree and moving into the professional world.
Megan Blaney ATT
Senior R&D Tax Assistant
Meg graduated from Bangor University in 2017 with a first class honours degree in Accounting and Finance (BSc). Prior to joining YesTax, she spent time travelling around Australia and New Zealand, embarking on a number of outdoor pursuits including skydiving and glacier hiking.
With travelling and student life sadly a distant memory, Meg has begun to forge a career in specialist tax. Currently part-ATT qualified, she is working towards her full qualification with ambitions to one day become a Chartered Tax Adviser. Recently promoted, she is now building her own client portfolio in a wide range of sectors.
Outside of work, Meg is a big sports fan, notably rugby, cricket, football and as of very recently, ice hockey. Meg supports Wales across a number of sports, with her club loyalties lying with Sheffield Wednesday. Meg wisely chose not to mention this during her interview process. She is also a keen dancer (having completed many exams in this discipline) and loves the outdoors. She is often found exploring the Peak District and Welsh mountains and in 2015 she went a step further by successfully summiting Mt Kilimanjaro.
Find out more about MeganYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Megan Blaney
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Professional Latin and Ballroom dancer.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
I’m going all out for this if it’s my last. I’d start with a homemade carbonara, followed by a Christmas dinner in a giant Yorkshire pudding. I’d then have to go for a trio of desserts - torta della nonna, crème brûlée and rice pudding - as I can’t decide between them. I’d finish off with a cheeseboard, including a baked Camembert, and I’d wash it all down with a bottle of prosecco!
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
Every encounter I’ve ever had with spiders, if I’m honest.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
As a child, my dad told me a Haggis was an actual animal and had one leg shorter than the other so it only walked one way round the hills and I believed this for an embarrassing amount of time.
Who’s your secret crush?
Tom Hanks.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Prosecco or Guinness.
What’s your pet hate?
Sheffield United and their deluded fans. Sorry, boss!
What’s your favourite place visited?
I’ve been to many incredible places, but visiting Hobbiton fulfilled a (near enough) lifelong dream!
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
I studied tax as part of my degree and really enjoyed the module. After hearing of a graduate role at YesTax, I researched the company and instantly knew it was a role and workplace I would enjoy. I am keen to further my tax studies and with my colleagues being the best in their field, who better to work with and learn from?
What are you most proud of?
It’s a toss-up between primary school conker champion (I still have my winning conker from 2004) and summiting Kilimanjaro in 2015.
Imogen Williams
R&D Tax Consultant
Imogen graduated from the University of Sheffield with a degree in Business Management. During her time at university, Imogen liked to give up some of her free time to give back to charities that have helped her as well as her friends and family. After finishing her degree and learning about YesTax being a business for good, she knew it would be the perfect fit for her. Imogen has recently started her ATT studies with the hope of moving on to becoming a Chartered Tax Advisor in the future.
Outside of work, Imogen loves taking her sausage dog on walks in the Peak District (as far as his little legs can get him). Imogen also loves exploring new places and has visited 23 countries so far and counting.. She will however always use some of her holidays for her yearly trip to Donegal in Ireland where she loves catching up with family and going horse riding on the beach.
Find out more about ImogenYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Imogen Williams
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I wanted to be a ballerina, I took ballet lessons for 14 years but gave it up during my A-Levels. I have started barre fitness lessons to hopefully get me back into it!
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Chicken pesto pasta and chocolate torte for dessert!
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
I had an operation under general anaesthetic when I was only 12, I was really scared but the nurse distracted me with a game of Where’s Wally while they put me to sleep. I never found Wally but the operation went well!
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I have a really strange phobia of belly buttons.
Who’s your secret crush?
Colin Firth.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
A strawberry daiquiri (preferably frozen).
What’s your pet hate?
When people don’t know their order by the time they are at the front of the queue.
What’s your favourite place visited?
Probably Bali, it was amazing to experience. I loved exploring the temples, rice terraces and the monkey forest.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
After exploring potential careers in tax, I found the R&D aspect of tax interesting and knew it would be a great job where I would be constantly learning new things. It was very important for me to work with people who shared the same values as me. After reading about YesTax and how the company is a business for good, I knew it was an opportunity I had to go for. It’s amazing having a job I love and knowing that by working, I am also helping give back to someone in need.
What are you most proud of?
Getting into my first choice university and then finishing my degree during the pandemic whilst also working full time. It was hard work but I was lucky enough to have parents who were very supportive and always cheered me on!
Meshaal Qureshi
R&D Tax Assistant
Meshaal graduated from Birmingham City University with an undergraduate degree in Accounting and will shortly be completing her MSc in Artificial Intelligence. This combination of accounting and technology gives Meshaal a highly relevant background for her burdening career in R&D tax. Upon learning about YesTax, Meshaal was enthusiastic to be working for a charitable company! Meshaal is keen to keep up with new advancements within the technology industry, especially artificial intelligence. She will soon be starting her ATT studies and one day hopes to become a Chartered Tax Adviser.
Outside of the office, Meshaal spends a lot of her time traveling! She keeps herself active by going to the gym regularly and taking long walks. She will spend a lot of time exploring Sheffield and the Peak District, which are very different from her hometown of Birmingham.
Find out more about MeshaalYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Meshaal Qureshi
What did you want to be when you were a child?
After travelling far and wide as a child, I wanted to be an Air Hostess. However, those dreams were shattered once I started getting travel sick as a young adult. The occasional flight is fine, but unfortunately everyday would be too much for me!
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
My final meal would be tandoori chicken cooked in a real tandoor, with a spicy potato flatbread.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
I was on holiday when the electricity cut out at 2am in the morning and I heard loud bangs. It frightened me to the core. Turns out it was only the watchman getting up to put the generator on and he had tripped over some steel crockery.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I don’t know how to swim (without armbands), despite having swimming lessons at school and privately!
Who’s your secret crush?
Cillian Murphy.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
I don’t drink alcohol, so a virgin mojito for me or a coke.
What’s your pet hate?
People who touch raw meat and start touching everywhere in the kitchen with the same hands.
What’s your favourite place visited?
It has to be Dubai, it’s a country I keep going back to.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
YesTax appealed to me for a number of reasons. The blend of taxation and technology, the values, and the family-first environment are what grabbed my attention about YesTax. Additionally, whilst working at YesTax, there’s the exposure to current R&D, which is very interesting. I love learning about new technologies and how they are innovative. YesTax also provides charitable aid and is a business for good, which further solidified my reason for applying.
What are you most proud of?
Obtaining not one but two degrees is something that I am exceptionally proud of.
Melanie Cheshire
Office Manager
Mel’s working life started in 1984 at PwC where she worked until 2008. Her career was punctuated by career breaks to bring up her two sons, although she also looked after a third child called Alison whilst at work. After a three year stint at a local accountancy firm, she joined Howarth Lynch in 2011 working alongside John, Mark, Hayley, Rachael and Alison. When YesTax came calling in 2019, she didn’t hesitate to follow the old team and continue her close association with the YesTax team members.
At YesTax, Mel is the controlling centrepiece of the office. Her role involves a variety of administrative and secretarial tasks and she is excellent at keeping everyone in check. The few who cross Mel always regret their actions!
In her spare time, Mel’s two grown up sons keep her busy, as do the Sheffield Steelers ice hockey team. Mel travels far and wide following her team, more out of a love for hunky North American men fighting on ice than the game itself. She also keeps fit with regular boxercise classes, but acknowledges that her ripe age is making this more and more difficult!
Find out more about MelanieYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Melanie Cheshire
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A nurse or midwife – loved babies and children and wanted to work with them.
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Mum’s homemade Meat & Potato Pie with gravy and mushy peas followed by Apple crumble (with lots of crumble) and custard.
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
I was involved in a car crash when I was 18 - a group of us had been out on a Saturday night and my friend was driving my first ever car, an F reg blue Mini!! The car ended up on its roof and I crawled out of the smashed windscreen – I had lost my glasses and was scrambling around trying to find them and help the others. We all came out of it with minor injuries and were very lucky.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
I fell asleep on the toilet in a pub in Hillsborough on a girls’ night out. My “friends” left me as they thought I had gone home and the bouncers woke me up at 2.00 in the morning and I came out of the toilet to a very brightly lit pub and the bar staff (most of who knew my eldest son) cheering me off the premises!! I am very embarrassed to be admitting to this.
Who’s your secret crush?
I have a few. The obvious ones being Brad Pitt and George Clooney but I also had a crush on Sam Elliott when he starred in Roadhouse with Patrick Swayze.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
Hendricks Gin and Fever-Tree Light Tonic please 😊
What’s your pet hate?
Inconsiderate people, general bad manners, oh and definitely noisy eaters!
What’s your favourite place visited?
That would have to be Gracelands, Memphis, Tennessee – home of Elvis Presley. I was lucky enough to go there for my 50th birthday and I was able to cross this off my bucket list.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
Definitely the people and to be back with the team I have worked alongside for many years. We are like a little work family and I love it.
What are you most proud of?
Without a doubt my two sons, Matthew and Ben. I am very proud of them both and what they have achieved so far in their lives.
Alison Ralston CTA
Chartered Tax Adviser
Alison left university before moving to Birmingham and working and qualifying as a Chartered Tax Adviser with PwC back in 1998. On budget night, back in 1999, new legislation concerning tax relief on R&D expenditure caught her eye - and she has never looked back! Alison went on to build a national R&D tax service at PKF before starting her own business, HowarthLynch, in 2009.
By 2014, Alison’s business was one of the largest bespoke tax practices in the UK. Her ambition was to develop a larger specialist tax practice and be the largest independent tax firm in the UK. To realise this ambition, Alison sold her practice to a Fortune 500 company.
Alison took a break from corporate life in 2018 to pursue her philanthropic pursuits. She is a strategic thinker and motivational leader who likes to lead by example inspiring teams to deliver. She has a proven track record of commercial success - leading, motivating and selling. She uses these skills in the boardroom to make real changes in her frontline charity work.
Alison is the founder and trustee of the Guiding Light Foundation which now runs through the core of YesTax.
Alison’s main area’s of tax specialities are Capital Allowances, R&D Tax Relief and Patent Box.
As well as her family, work and charity commitments, Alison is a keen Sheffield Wednesday supporter which is not echoed by her husband or business colleagues and is the subject of many lively discussions!
Find out more about AlisonYou’ve read about our team but can you really understand who you’re dealing with when all you’ve read is a couple of paragraphs about them. And guess what? They wrote the paragraphs themselves! So to get a better understanding of who you’re really dealing with at YesTax, we’ve asked our team to answer ten questions about themselves. As you’ll see, they’ve been as honest as possible!
Alison Ralston
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A children’s television presenter. In fact, any job where I could work with and help children. That’s why I agreed to work with the YesTax team again!
You’re on death row. What’s your final meal?
Christmas lunch, all the trimmings and a stiff drink!
What’s the most frightened you’ve ever been?
When my daughter was younger she used to have fits. Apparently, it’s highly unusual for childhood fits to be dangerous but her lips would go blue and it was petrifying.
Tell us an embarrassing fact about yourself?
It is a widely known fact amongst my friends and family that I have a tendency to lose my bank card where ever I go! I got to issue 87 and changed banks before they closed my account!
Who’s your secret crush?
Duncan Bannatyne and Sean Connery. It’s the Scottish accent.
It’s our round. What you drinking?
A proper cup of Yorkshire tea with a good old fashioned digestive biscuit to dunk!
What’s your pet hate?
People that don’t give!
What’s your favourite place visited?
Nepal. The children have very little, expect very little but still have the biggest smiles on their faces.
Why did you decide to join YesTax?
To change lives everyday just by doing what we do.
What are you most proud of?
My kids independent zest for life and setting up the Guiding Light charitable foundation.