Meet the team

I have been in private practice for many years acting for a very wide range of businesses from limited companies, partnerships and sole traders.

Client retention has always been extremely important to me and this can only be achieved by giving a sound professional service.

I have been a sole practitioner for much of my career but in the last decade or, so I teamed up with my colleagues Colin Pocknell and John Holliday. Working alongside Pocknells as an associate has been invaluable to all concerned.

In this ever quickly changing legislative world, to be connected with a larger practice is essential.

Outside of work I enjoy playing tennis and squash.

steve.albery@pocknells.co.uk

Having been at my previous firm for 16 years, it was time for a new challenge and discovered the Pocknells team. 

I have experience with clients of varying sizes in numerous sectors, from construction, manufacturing and FCA regulated financial services. I have planned and managed audits on multimillion pound turnover clients and trained junior team members whilst working at clients’ premises, teaching them audit concepts and principles.

I have experience with numerous accounting packages including cloud based and have previously been Xero Certified and Free Agent accredited.

In my spare time I enjoy long walks whilst listening to podcasts and travelling the world. My favourite holiday to date has been a three week tour of New Zealand in a campervan with friends – especially the 16,500 foot sky dive over Abel Tasman National Park and hiking up the Franz Josef Glacier.

stuart.arthur@pocknells.co.uk Book a meeting

After spending 13 years in my pervious role as a senior management accountant, during which I achieved my AAT qualification and became certified in both Syft and Xero, I made the transition to Pocknells in June 2023. Pocknells is a great company to work for, with a fun and dynamic team and a modern environment.

In my current role is team leader of the bookkeeping department where my responsibilities extend to the production of management accounts for a wide array of our clients.

Having lived in Maldon for most of my life, I’ve had the opportunity to witness the transformation of Pocknells new office in The Old Police Station. Additionally, I’m a proud parent of two children who I love spending weekends with, exploring various activities and experiences. I am a very social person, I have great group of friends, we are always going to different places and going on holidays together!

I joined Pocknells in 1997, and during my more than 20 years with the company, I’ve witnessed its growth and adaptation through ever-changing economic climates. It’s been a rewarding journey, especially working with clients whose loyalty spans generations. 

My role at Pocknells is diverse, as I collaborate with clients in the construction, professional services, and media sectors. Additionally, I serve as the training manager for the firm’s apprentices, maintaining communication with local colleges and training providers to monitor their progress and offer support.

When I’m not spending time with my children, I have a passion for cooking and take pride in preparing a delicious spicy curry. I’m also a music enthusiast with an extensive record collection.

daniel.baxter@pocknells.co.uk

I am fully AAT qualified and currently working towards my ACCA qualification.

In my current role, I handle various financial tasks, including bookkeeping, VAT returns, tax returns, and limited company accounts for a diverse client base. I also assist with CIS returns, and I’ve had the opportunity to gain experience in preparing financial statements for both sole traders and limited companies. The support and guidance from my colleagues have been invaluable in my professional development, and there are ample opportunities for further advancement.

In my free time, I’m an avid Arsenal fan, and I enjoy watching football whenever I can, I’m also have a strong passion for exploring a wide variety of music in my leisure time.

michael.bedier@pocknells.co.uk

I joined Pocknells in September 2023 after completing work experience with the team throughout 2022. I’m now finishing my Level 3 AAT qualification and continue to enjoy developing my skills as part of the accounts and finance team. My role is varied, and I’m always happy to support with whatever tasks come my way.

In my spare time, I enjoy music, catching up with friends and I love fashion.

I have been at Pocknells since September 2021 where I originally started as an apprentice. Having completed my Level 3 and Level 4 AAT, I am currently pursuing my Level 7 ACCA.

Managing a diverse client base, I handle a range of tasks from Limited Company Accounts to VAT Returns and Tax Returns. The support and opportunities my colleagues have given me have been invaluable to my professional development over the past few years.

In my free time, I like to go to the gym and I enjoy watching football. I have sadly had a Manchester United Season Ticket since 2018, travelling home and away for any game that I can. Unfortunately, we have not been very good over recent seasons; I really hope we can improve!

jake.boylan@pocknells.co.uk

I’ve been working at Pocknells since August 2024 and have found the working environment so refreshing. The team are very welcoming and put me at ease straight away. Pocknells is a company who care about their staff and their development as well as striving to be the best in its industry and this is a big reason why I enjoy working here.

I am the Practice Manager of Pocknells and no two days are the same! I work closely with the business owner and Operations Manager to ensure the business runs smoothly and staff and clients are looked after.

I have two young children who I love to spend quality time with going to parks, playing games or just dancing around the kitchen. When I occasionally get some time to myself I enjoy catching up with friends and having a hot cup of coffee!

I joined Pocknells in September 2024 and straight away I felt very comfortable. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly and I feel like I have worked here years.

I’m looking forward to furthering my knowledge and skill in my new payroll administrator role, which will then help me grow more confident in every area of Payroll.

A lot of my spare time is taken up by my two boys. Entertaining them with woodland adventures and running away from every T-Rex we find. When I do find a moment, I love catching up with close friends over dinner and drinks.

I joined Hern & Company in April 2011, transferring to Hern Pocknells as part of the merger in June 2022. As a double ACCA prize winner with international experience, I enjoy the challenge of delivering a service to the exacting standards demanded of the profession, and working in the wider Pocknells network gives me an opportunity to share my own expertise and make use of that of my colleagues.

My role is in general practice, preparing financial statements, planning and performing audits, and maintaining records for clients, including full accounting ledgers and VAT returns.

Outside of work, I am a goalkeeper for Old Southendian Hockey Club and perform a voluntary role with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (as an auditor!). I am also a member of the Benfleet Boardgames Club, which is great for maintaining my mental faculties (if you rate Monopoly at 2 out of ten for complexity, most of our games are between 8 and 10!)

roderic.buttimore@pocknells.co.uk

I have an Accounting and Finance degree and joined Pocknells straight out of university. I joined the team as an accounts apprentice, and I am working towards becoming ACCA qualified.

I joined the team here during the coronavirus lockdown, and despite this, the people here at Pocknells all made me feel welcome and part of the team straight away. It is simply a great place to work.

I have been exposed to many different aspects of accounting including bookkeeping, accounts preparation, tax returns, and audit. I continue to learn different things every day, which will allow me to build a strong career in accounting.

I enjoy reading in my spare time (anything fiction, really) and aim to read around a book a week. Sometimes I get to attend book tour events, which allows me to learn even more about my favourite books (and receive signed copies!). I also like to bake, especially during Christmas.

melissa.caitlan@pocknells.co.uk

IAs the Practice Manager at Pocknells, I bring extensive experience in office management. My commitment lies in fostering a positive and productive work environment.

In my role, I oversee the day-to-day office operations, manage budgets, and am dedicated to creating opportunities for growth and development within our team and the business, among other responsibilities.

Outside of work, I find joy in spending time with my dogs, taking them for frequent walks, and relishing moments in the countryside.

I ensure the smooth running of day-to-day operations by providing efficient administrative support, managing schedules and streamlining processes to help my team.

As a highly organised individual with a talent for multitasking, I bring years of experience balancing professional responsibilities with a busy family life, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.

Outside of work, I’m a proud football mum and dance and gymnastics mum, always cheering my kids on at matches and recitals. In my spare time, I enjoy attending concerts and theatre shows and catching up with friends over cocktails.

I come with a background in administrative work, having previously held roles in this field. At Pocknells, I’m excited about the future and eager to embrace more opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In my current role at Pocknells, I assist in various administrative tasks and am always ready to support clients with their questions and concerns.

Outside of work, my life is quite busy, as I have four children ranging in age from 2 to 16. Needless to say, I stay occupied ensuring they are entertained! When I do find some time for myself, I enjoy indulging in a bit of retail therapy.

I joined Pocknells as an apprentice, and it didn’t take long to feel right at home. The culture here encourages growth, creativity and trying new things, which has helped shape my journey from apprentice to Marketing Assistant.

Today, I support the marketing team with everything from filming and editing videos, capturing photos and planning events to managing social content, updating the website, and helping improve our customer experience. No two days look the same, and that’s exactly what I love about it.

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me exploring new places, spending time with friends, or crossing something off my bucket list.

I joined Pocknells in 2015 and since then I have completed both AAT and ACCA qualifications. 

My work includes a range of different roles from VAT returns, monthly management reporting to finalisation of sole traders and limited company accounts for my clients.

I am a Certified Xero User and help other staff members and clients in using this software.

Pocknells is very client focused and we always go the extra mile for our clients and make sure they receive a great service. Client satisfaction is very rewarding.

We have a strong team and it makes working at Pocknells very enjoyable. We have enjoyed several team outings including visiting one of our client’s wake boarding parks. We all had a go at wake boarding on a 12 person stand up paddle board!

I enjoy travelling, exploring different places and taking my dog, Rocco, for walks.

maisie.emans@pocknells.co.uk

I joined Pocknells with a background in legal secretarial work and bookkeeping. While working as a bookkeeper for a farming company, I discovered my passion for the field and decided to further my expertise by studying for my AAT qualifications.

At Pocknells, I’m part of the bookkeeping team, helping clients manage their financial records with accuracy and efficiency. I enjoy the variety of the role and the opportunity to support businesses with their finances.

Outside of work, life keeps me busy with my two teenagers and my Labrador. I also enjoy weight training, long walks, and spending time with friends.

From day one, I felt incredibly welcomed by the Pocknells team. Everyone has been supportive and always ready to help, which has made a huge difference as I’ve developed my skills. The variety of tasks I handle keeps the role engaging and ensures I’m continuously learning and improving.

As an Accounts Assistant, I support the team with bookkeeping, preparing VAT returns and assisting with client accounts. This year, I’ll be completing my Level 3 AAT qualification.

Outside of work, I go to the gym around four times a week, enjoy listening to music and love seeing my favourite artists live whenever I can. I’m also a Tottenham Hotspur membership holder and make sure I get to as many games as possible during the season.

I have always worked in a financial environment; my first job being at the Bank of England.

I then studied for my AAT qualification and have worked in in-house accounts departments for a number of local businesses. This has given me a greater understanding of how businesses work and the importance of the financial side of any successful business.

My role at Pocknells is to keep everything running smoothly. I work to ensure our systems are constantly maintained and up-to-date and that our clients (and staff) are happy. It’s a friendly team so I enjoy my work.

Outside of work I have two very energetic dogs who keep me busy! To stay fit I enjoy jogging and have completed the Great North Run as well as the Coniston Run – both big achievements for me.

gill.hollamby@pocknells.co.uk

I first came to Segrave & Pocknell at the tender age of 18.

Whilst at that time I still had dreams of becoming the next David Beckham, after having a quick reality check I decided that Accountancy was the career for me. I was fortunate enough to be trained by Colin Pocknell and qualified in 2009. I became a Partner of the firm in 2011.

I am now the client partner and enjoy meeting with all our clients, discussing their needs and understanding their businesses’ ambitions.

On a day to day basis I am engaged by a variety of clients, the majority of which are owner managed businesses in sectors including construction, haulage and freight, manufacturing, healthcare, professional services and business support services. A varied and challenging cross section of work with no two days ever the same, life is certainly never boring.

I am on the committee of the local Chartered Institute of Tax and an active member of many local networking groups. 

When I have some spare time, I like to head to my local golf club and work on lowering my handicap! I also thoroughly enjoy a holiday (I guess the clue is in the surname) I think it is important to have a change of scenery and explore the world.

john.holliday@pocknells.co.uk

As payroll supervisor I oversee all our clients’ payroll preparation, delegating some of the work to junior staff.

I enjoy my work and it’s a good company to work for, with a friendly environment.

When I’m not at work I love spending time with my granddaughter and, as a keen knitter, often knit things for her. 

I like being out in the countryside and sometimes go canoeing. On a recent trip to Venice we went kayaking along many of the canals. One day I’d love to visit Alaska.

lorraine.holliday@pocknells.co.uk

I have been with Pocknells for five months and I love working here because of the lovely, bubbly and supportive team environment. Speaking with clients is one of my favourite parts of the job and Pocknells has given me the opportunity to freely be the chatterbox that I am!

As an Admin Assistant, I provide essential support to our team, ensuring smooth operations and effective client communication.

In my spare time, I love spending time with my loved ones. I enjoy reading various genres, studying medieval history and of course, visiting castles!

I joined Pocknells in 2021 and have since built on my skills in customer service and client relations, especially after completing my Level 3 Business Administration qualification.

In my current role, I help keep the office running smoothly day-to-day. From scheduling appointments to managing correspondence and supporting client enquiries, I play an active part in ensuring our clients receive a helpful and seamless experience.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends, discovering new places and making the most of my free time.

sara.keeler@pocknells.co.uk

I joined the Pocknells team in May 2024 and have greatly appreciated the friendly, supportive environment and the diverse range of work. My role as Accounts Manager involves building and managing a portfolio of clients across various industries. I am responsible for preparing tax returns, accounts, corporation tax and VAT, as well as reviewing work.

I find fulfilment in seeing each job through to completion, which helps foster close relationships with our clients and deepens my understanding of their businesses.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new places with family, from nearby forests and rivers to safaris and mountains in South Africa. I enjoy baking cakes and giving myself a different challenge in how to decorate each one, often resulting in the kitchen being covered in icing sugar.

allyson.knipe@pocknells.co.uk

I joined Pocknells in 2021 after dedicating eight years to my previous role at an FCA-regulated lending firm. During my two maternity leaves, I completed my AAT qualifications and brought my expanded skillset into my role here. I have since achieved my ACCA qualification and am now a fully qualified chartered accountant.

At Pocknells, I handle a broad range of responsibilities, including bookkeeping, VAT returns, accounts preparation, accountancy software training, tax returns and monthly management reporting. I enjoy supporting clients with clear, accurate financial information that helps them run their businesses with confidence.

Outside of work, I love travelling with my family and children, and I maintain a healthy lifestyle through a mix of cardio and weight training.

danielle.moss@pocknells.co.uk

I recently joined Pocknells as their Tax Director having spent a several years at a 3 different Top 30 Accountancy firms as well as a number of years heading up a regional practice.

I specialise in Property Development & Investment, SDLT planning, Share Options, Business Disposals and HNWI Estate and Inheritance Tax Planning. I look after, successful entrepreneurs, family run businesses, property developers and property investors.

Soon to be approaching 30 years of experience, I take a pragmatic approach to helping individuals and companies navigate the tax landscape and the options available to them and work alongside them to enable them to flourish in their chosen field. Along with the rest of the team here at Pocknells, I take great satisfaction in collaborating with my colleagues to help and assist our clients.

Outside of the office, I am a father of 3, a qualified girl’s team football coach, a wannabe Jamie Oliver and a music geek, so spend most of my time next to a speaker, either in the kitchen, or standing in front of my BBQ.

jason.munro@pocknells.co.uk

Having worked in marketing across multiple industries since 2016, I joined Pocknells just before Christmas 2024.

Trying to promote Pocknells as Essex’s leading accountants, I love combining creativity and data to inform and shape campaigns that will both help our existing clients and attract new ones. It’s rewarding to know that I’m helping individuals by introducing them to a service that will make their lives that little bit easier, while saving them money.

Away from the office, I love spending time with my two young kids (despite them eternally leaving me exhausted!). Although time is a rare commodity, I’m also a huge football – and long-suffering West Ham – fan, as well as a keen golfer; two things that help me to relax and frustrate me in equal balance.

Having been a founding Partner of the Firm in 1989, I have watched it go from strength to strength.

Over the years I have acted for a wide variety of clients from multi-million-pound turnover construction clients to business start-ups. I enjoy getting to know our clients and understanding their business needs; working closely with them to ensure they achieve the best possible outcome for their business. 

Over the years it has been great to see so many referrals from our existing client base. It is the greatest compliment when someone introduces their friends or family and something that we do not take for granted.

I am the Responsible Individual for all audits undertaken by the firm and I am our ICAEW Compliance Officer.

In my spare time I enjoy gardening and I am also a keen fisherman. I enjoy sporting events, particularly football- supporting both Arsenal and Southend, however my most memorable event would have to be attending the 2012 London Olympics – an inspiring occasion.

colin.pocknell@pocknells.co.uk

Since joining Pocknells, I’ve quickly become an active part of the team. It’s a great environment for learning, and I’ve been able to build experience across a wide range of accountancy areas. I have now completed both my Level 3 and Level 4 AAT qualifications and am currently studying towards Level 7 ACCA.

In my role, I prepare tax returns and company accounts for a diverse portfolio of clients. Being part of a supportive team has played a big part in helping me grow professionally, and I’m proud to contribute to the work we do.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and supporting my favourite team, Aston Villa. I’m also a big Formula 1 fan and make sure to watch every race of the season.

I joined Pocknells in 2007 and commenced my studies. In 2015, I successfully completed ACCA qualification, leading to my promotion to Partner at Pocknells in 2023.

I work with clients of varying sizes across diverse industries and trades. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is building strong relationships with clients, witnessing their business growth, and providing them with valuable support for their accounting and taxation needs.

Another significant part of my role involves mentoring junior staff members, guiding them with their work and helping them with their studies as they pursue their professional exams.

During my free time, I relish the opportunity to watch football matches whenever I can and cherish moments spent with my family.

paul.shaylor@pocknells.co.uk Book a meeting

I joined the team in May 2025, bringing over 11 years of experience from a previous accounting role. My work covers a wide range of responsibilities, from VAT and accounts preparation to supporting clients with day-to-day queries as they arise.

I became ACCA qualified in 2016 and hold a Xero certification, which helps me deliver efficient, cloud-based accounting solutions.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me at the ice rink. I also have a passion for travel, and I like to keep things exciting by always having at least three holidays booked!

I’ve been a bookkeeper at Pocknells for over three years. In my role, I work closely with our clients to maintain their financial records and ensure compliance with accounting regulations. Before joining Pocknells, I had worked in various accounting roles across different industries for many years.

Outside of work, I’ve developed a new passion for gardening. When I’m not at the office, you’ll find me in my garden or greenhouse, tending to my green oasis. I also enjoy taking my sprocker, Dicksie, for long walks and exploring new places.

josie.vanner@pocknells.co.uk

I joined Pocknells in June 2025 as a Bookkeeper and have felt incredibly welcomed by everyone since my first day. I'm currently in the process of obtaining my Xero certification and will soon be starting my AAT Level 3 qualification, which I'm excited to pursue as part of my professional development.

Before joining Pocknells, I worked as the sole bookkeeper for a Police Force, where I gained hands-on experience managing day-to-day finances and developed a strong sense of numeric proficiency.

Outside of work, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that help me stay active and creative. I love going to concerts, spending time at the gym, trying a variety of different sports and socialising with friends. These interests help me maintain a good work-life balance and bring energy into everything I do.

I joined Pocknells at the start of July 2025, and I’ve already had the opportunity to learn more about a wide range of the work we do, complimenting the topics I learn at my Level 2 AAT course. My current role as an Accounts Assistant Apprentice, is to support the more senior members of the team, whether that be VAT returns, annual accounts or something else.

In my spare time I enjoy playing and watching a variety of sports, as well as going to the gym at least 2-3 times a week.

After completing a degree in Psychology I joined the Pocknells team in 2025 and immediately felt welcome. Everyone was very approachable and I was never made to feel out of place. I saw from the outset that the team were very focused and that client satisfaction was a high priority.

As a payroll assistant, it is my responsibility to ensure that the payrolls of small businesses are correctly processed. My change to the field of finance has been exciting and I look forward to developing my skills and becoming more confident with all areas of payroll.

In my spare time I love travelling and experiencing new places. I am an avid reader and when I am at home, I spend my time baking and visiting the cinema with my friends and family.

As a part of the administrative team I provide support to my colleagues whilst having strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to multitask and ensure the satisfaction of all our clients.

Having previously worked at a local Solicitors I have gained experience in handling matters with discretion and confidentiality.

When I’m not in the office you’ll find me playing football, running, watching Formula 1 and riding horses.

I’ve recently joined Pocknells in September 2025 as an Accounts Assistant Apprentice with the goal of becoming a fully qualified accountant. Since I joined, I have had the chance to learn and support the team with tasks such as bookkeeping, VAT returns and helping with client accounts. I always try my best to produce work to my highest standard whilst being tested with new things every day and trying to improve. Alongside the workplace I am actively studying my AAT Level 2 qualification looking to go through them all up to my ACCA Qualification. I also work as a Matchday Ticket Office Assistant at Ipswich Town Football Club giving me the chance to fulfil a boyhood dream of working at a football club and allowing me to watch games for free every week after working !!

When outside of work, I love going on random excursions up and down the country seeing new things. I love going for a drive, spending time with my mates whether that be playing football or down the pub and trying to go to the gym (if I haven’t been dragged out elsewhere).

I am an avid Liverpool FC fan and devote most of my evenings and weekends to them if they are playing and I wouldn’t miss a game for anything, being recent title winners, I’m hoping that we can carry on our winning ways by bringing home Number 21 to Anfield! #YoullNeverWalkAlone

As an Accountant, I specialise in helping clients, including small businesses, individuals and larger limited companies achieve financial clarity and long-term success through personalised solutions.

With over eight years of experience in accounting, finance and tax planning, I focus on delivering expert advice, accurate financial reporting and efficient strategies that support clients in reaching their financial goals.

I am also currently working towards my Chartered Accountant (ACCA) qualification.

When I’m not crunching numbers, I enjoy watching horror movies, exploring new cities, hiking, cooking and spending time with loved ones.

I am a Senior Accounts Manager with over 29 years’ experience supporting businesses and individuals with a wide range of tax and accounting services. I provide expert advice, accurate financial reporting, and tailored solutions designed to help clients achieve both their business and personal goals.

I specialise in Off-Payroll Working (IR35) advisory and the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), and I offer extensive guidance across areas including Capital Gains Tax for business and non-business assets, personal and corporate tax planning, incorporation tax planning, succession planning, corporate restructuring, residency status, and Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).

Throughout my career, I have worked closely with business owners and individuals — from start-ups to established companies and partnerships — identifying opportunities that support long-term success. I am committed to building lasting relationships with my clients and always aim to understand their circumstances holistically, considering both business and wider family interests. I take pride in explaining complex legislation in clear, practical terms, ensuring clients fully understand any tax planning or compliance before implementation.

I adopt a proactive approach, consistently helping clients identify opportunities that benefit not only their businesses, but their families as a whole.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. My two sons keep me busy with rugby and gymnastics — whether I’m coaching and supporting my eldest son’s rugby team or cheering on my youngest at gymnastics. When time allows, and depending on the season, I enjoy playing at as many golf clubs in and around Essex as possible.