Running an accountancy practice today looks nothing like it did in the 70s. But some things haven’t changed - like the importance of trust, relationships and showing up for your clients when it counts.
Paul’s Perspective: 32 Years In (and Then Some)
Paul began his career in accountancy back in 1976, when the tools of the trade were a calculator, an analysis pad and a steady hand. Tax rules were harsh - the top rate of income tax at the time was a staggering 83%, plus a 15% surcharge on investment income. That meant a possible effective rate of 98%. And while today’s top effective rate is 60%, you won’t see that quoted openly - it’s buried in the system.
Back then, you could pop into your local tax office and get some friendly guidance. These days, it’s a different story - faceless mega-offices and helplines that often leave you none the wiser.
Donaldson Ross & Co opened its Ringwood office in 1993. Over the years, clients have come and gone, as you’d expect, but what hasn’t changed is the need for value. What has changed is the type of help clients need. Many now rely on us not just to stay compliant, but to plan, grow and get strategic. That’s where our investment in technology really delivers - providing up-to-date, accurate financial information so clients can make informed decisions, fast.
For more complex tax matters, we handle most of it in-house. But when something specialist is needed, we’ve built a trusted network of experts we can call on - people we’ve worked with and know personally.
Paul says he’s proud of the way the firm has evolved - helping clients achieve their goals, and helping staff develop their careers and qualifications along the way. That part, he says, won’t change.
Jason’s Perspective: Year One (and a Bit)
Jason joined the firm in 2019 and quickly spotted opportunities to modernise systems and streamline how the team works. Now, as a Partner since April 2024, he’s focused on building out a more tech-enabled, future-ready service - one that makes life easier not just for the firm, but for the clients too.
With Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD ITSA) kicking in from April 2026, businesses and landlords who’ve managed with manual records until now will need to make the digital switch. It’s a big shift, and not everyone is prepared.
Jason and the team are already supporting clients through the transition, helping them move onto digital systems with as little stress as possible. For him, good accountancy is about peace of mind - knowing your finances are under control and there’s someone in your corner who understands what matters.
Moving Forward, Together
Paul started out in a world of paper ledgers and local tax offices. Jason arrived in the era of automation and cloud platforms. Different generations, different starting points - but the same outlook when it comes to service, trust and clarity.
Whether you’ve been a client for decades or you’re just starting out, the team at Donaldson Ross & Co is ready to help you face the future with confidence.
Need help getting ready for Making Tax Digital?
We’re already supporting clients through the change, and we’re happy to have a conversation about what it means for your business. Get in touch to book a meeting.