This was originally published in the Business Bulletin, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce magazine (Dec / Jan edition)
Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
My late father, Sandy Reid, and my uncle, Robin Reid, both chartered accountants in private practice in Aberdeen. Indeed, there has been a direct Reid descendant as a chartered accountant in Aberdeen since 1853. I learned so much from them. They showed me the importance of treating people with respect, behaving professionally and always being aware of what’s happening around you. These lessons have been invaluable throughout my career.
What’s the most effective piece of training or personal development you have undertaken?
Serving as President of Junior Chamber Aberdeen (now known as Junior Chamber International Aberdeen) and then National President was a tremendous honour and very challenging. I developed skills in public speaking, dealing with people and project management as well as other attributes. Junior Chamber provided a safe environment to learn and grow. If you took on something and it didn’t work out, while you’d be disappointed with failure, it was a place where you could make mistakes, learn from them and improve. I was a member for 10 years. Many businesspeople I know have gained a great deal from being a member and I would recommend the organisation to anyone between the ages of 18 and 40
What’s the biggest lesson you have learned in business?
"Do as you would be done by. The principle is explained in The Water Babies by Charles Kingsley. If you behave properly to people in all walks of life, you should expect to be treated properly in return. A person’s code of conduct is important and helps to define your reputation - treat others well, and you’ll be treated the same."
What’s been your proudest career achievement to date?
Co-founding Meston Reid & Co in 1990 and growing it to the point where it was attractive enough for a UK firm to want to merge with us in 2023. It’s been an exciting journey with plenty more to look forward to as the business develops. I am now an equity partner in MHA which is one of the largest accountancy groups in the UK and Ireland, with a turnover of £205million, over 1,960 staff, 150 partners and comprises of 20 offices nationwide including England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
What’s the best thing about doing business in the North East of Scotland?
The people. I went to school and university in Aberdeen and have always felt at ease with the general business style and approach in the area. Dealing with a wide cross-section of people is invigorating and I’ve always found that an honest, transparent and communicative approach gets to the point of an issue and allows matters to be progressed quickly and effectively. My main field of practice since 1988 has been insolvency which faces unique and interesting challenges, but a practical and measured approach, allied to the candour of the people here, usually provides a successful end result.
Quick-fire round
- What was your first job? A cream boy! I sold cartons of cream on Saturday mornings in Hazelhead and Woodend
- Who or what inspires you most? The energy of youth. They have so much to look forward to.
- What word or phrase in business speak exasperates you? Generally people being too familiar when first dealing with you when they don’t know you... or perhaps I am simply getting too old for the modern business attitude!
- How do you relax? Time with my grandchildren, football - supporting Aberdeen FC - and golf at Royal Aberdeen.
