Claritas celebrates and recognises our female talents around the workplace. We would like to end our spotlights with two profiles – Faith Ross, Manager and Debi Osborne Practice Manager.
Name, job title, and how many years have have you been in Claritas?
My name is Faith Ross, and I am a Manager here at Claritas Tax. I have now been in the company for 6.5 years, and I was their first ever graduate.
Tell us a little bit more about your role?
I work predominately in R&D tax reliefs, assisting clients in claiming money back as a result of R&D work they have undertaken. I also work on tax compliance as well as restructuring jobs. No day is ever the same, sometimes I’m at meetings, other days I’m writing reports or working with numbers. I love the variety that my role offers and the range of clients I work with in different sectors.
Describe your career progression and what has supported you to progress to this position?
I began my career with Claritas straight out of university and have quickly progressed from graduate to manager in the 6.5 years. I’ve been here also completing my ACA and CTA qualifications. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve the progress I have without the support of everyone at Claritas, be it help with exams, work or just generally being there to have a chat on a bad day. Of course the support of my family and friends has also been invaluable and they’ve definitely helped me get to where I am, especially through the long nights and weekends of studying when it felt impossible!
How do you feel the business has supported you to grow professionally and personally?
Everyone at Claritas has been so helpful and supportive from day one. No question is ever silly, and everyone always takes the time to explain things to you and make sure you fully understand everything. Nothing is ever too much trouble and you’re always made to feel like a valued member of the team. Similarly from a personal perspective, people take an interest in your life and hobbies, and you’re encouraged to pursue your interests and take time to do the things you enjoy
What barriers have you personally faced in your career and what advice would you give to others to overcome these? 
It’s hard to say, there have been many barriers but I’ve always had so much help and support! If I had to give a barrier, I would have to say it would be at times feeling like I just wouldn’t get through all the exams due to the difficulty of them and the amount of content. My advice would be to try and break down the amount of work to be done and do a bit at a time. It makes it seem so much more manageable and feels like you’re achieving something when you get to grips with each topic. Plus remind yourself that so many people before you have passed the exams so if you put the work in there’s no reason you can’t as well!
What has been the highlight of your career?
I would have to say it’s doing a job I love with people I love working with and feeling like a valued member of the team. I feel very lucky to be able to say I have a job that I love and enjoy doing every day!
What advice would you give to the next generation of females wanting to grow into your position?
To believe in yourself. It’s so easy to doubt whether you can do it, know enough, are as good as others but you bring your own skills and perspectives to the role and are an invaluable member of the team!
Name, job title, and how many years have you been in Claritas?
Hi there, I am Debi Osborne, Practice Manager, for Claritas. I have been with the company now for just over a year, starting in November 2020.
Tell us a little bit more about your role?
My role is varied, ever changing with no one day the same as another. I ensure everyone has everything they need to do their role and are compliant within the Practice.
Describe your career progression and what has supported you to progress to this position?
From Office Manager to Operations Manager and on to Practice Manager, a natural progression through experience and passion for improvement. It’s my family and friends believing in me; and Claritas recognising my skills and giving me the platform and trust to take the business forward that has supported me to where I am today. I’ve been called Mary Poppins, Superwoman, the police and a nagging wife in previous roles but I’m just passionate about getting things right.
How do you feel the business has supported you to grow professionally and personally?
Claritas has supported me in my ideas, given me the opportunity to put my past experience and learning into practice. Any training needs are addressed without question alongside the coaching program. I am treated as one of the team and also as an individual. Claritas really do care about the person and not just the role. Most of all, I am valued and listened to, with my opinion and ideas are taken seriously.
What has been the highlight of your career?
After being awarded Chartered Manager status it was finding a role where I could put into practice everything that my journey entailed. I’m certainly using everything I’ve learnt and more. Oh, and the biggest highlight of my journey is raising three wonderful humans alongside my career.
What advice would you give to the next generation of females wanting to grow into your position?
Keep going, keep smiling and keep learning. Love what you do and do what you love. Don’t be a gender, just be you and you will get there.
