Meet… Stephen Toulson

Deeks Evans Partner Stephen Toulson is based in the firm's Hastings office and has worked there since the 1970s.

He secured a job at the firm and then went to college for a year to complete his articles, before joining Deeks Evans full-time and qualifying as a chartered accountant. He became a Partner in the late 1980s.

“At school I always enjoyed maths and I was naturally drawn to accountancy,” says Stephen. “When I first started here, my tasks included basic accounts and some tax work. But, I soon found that one of things I liked most about my job was the people. I enjoyed building relationships with clients but, over the years, I have also really enjoyed working with the team here. Many of them have been here a long time and that longevity has benefited our clients too, as they see familiar faces.”

He adds: “The fact that we've been here a while now means that we see sons and daughters of our clients approach us, as they've now launched their own businesses and that's exciting to see.”

Stephen likes to encourage people into accountancy when he can and always enjoys welcoming a student on work experience most years.

The types of businesses which the Hastings office works with are varied and Stephen believes that they choose Deeks Evans because the firm is 'friendly and professional to deal with'.

“I make sure that we always respond quickly to clients and not keep them waiting,” says Stephen. “I think that's so important. We also offer a free half hour consultation, so clients can find out more about us and vice versa.”

Stephen adds that also being able to tell clients that the firm has offices in both Kent and Sussex, as well as being a member of the UK 200 Group also gives clients peace of mind.

“The UK 200 Group is not only a seal of approval for us as a firm - they have pretty high standards and come to check us out regularly – but it also gives us access to some specialist advice if we need it,” says Stephen.

When he has time, Stephen likes to get involved in the local business community. The firm is a long-time member of Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce and Stephen attends a local curry club for business professionals when he can.

“Because we are based in the centre of town, we do feel very much part of the community,” says Stephen. “It also means that we are conveniently based for clients and many of them will drop in to see us, rather than posting us papers.”

Deeks Evans is the accountant for Hastings United Football Club and Stephen is also a passionate supporter of the club.

“Hastings is one of the best supported clubs in our league and we regularly see crowds of 400 people for home games,” he says. “I try to attend as many home games as I can and have gained a number of clients due to our involvement with the club.”

Stephen enjoys listening to music and says that the local music scene in Hastings is pretty vibrant.