Why Byrd + Link auditors don’t dread Monday mornings
What’s it really like working at Byrd + Link? Do they truly enable work-life balance, how does a small team manage busy periods, and why do they practice speaking Filipino on Tuesdays?
Nathan Smith, Associate Director, shares how his professional and personal life have been transformed by the firm’s supportive, collaborative culture and strong emphasis on work-life balance. From providing constructive feedback to clients to sharing stories about his infant son’s latest antics, Nathan has found a work environment where he feels trusted, supported, and respected.
A truly collaborative culture
Life at Byrd + Link is rooted in collaboration and open communication, both internally and with clients. During regular team meetings, contributions are welcomed from everyone, regardless of their role.
This was a refreshing change for Nathan, who was keen to avoid feeling like “a cog in a machine” and to really add value to the firm. “Knowing that points I raise are heard and considered has been a real confidence boost.”
“A big advantage of working at a smaller firm is our flexibility in decision-making,” Nathan adds. “In this role, I get to influence not only the firm’s strategic direction but also its day-to-day management, like the software we use.”
“Loads of firms tell you they offer great work-life balance, but it’s just lip service. Whereas at Byrd + Link, we’re actually achieving it. They walk the walk — and that’s rare.
It might sound clichéd, but we really do have a one-team culture. Everyone’s opinions are listened to, and we work together to achieve the best outcome."
Crunch time: teamwork in action
“One thing that would surprise people about Byrd + Link is the fact that everyone is willing to help,” Nathan says.
“In many companies, people talk about working as a team. But when it comes to crunch time — which, in this industry, happens an awful lot! — it’s more of an ‘everyone for themselves' attitude.
“When crunch time hits at Byrd + Link, it’s all about that one-team culture. If I’m overloaded with work, the immediate response is, ‘Right, how can we help?’ There’s always a focus on finding a solution together.”
“If we have 12 audits due by the end of the week, we plan together to get them done as efficiently as possible. That level of collaboration is rare in the industry, but at Byrd + Link, it’s second nature. And everyone benefits: me, the firm, and our clients.”
Flexible work-life balance is a win-win
Byrd + Link’s approach to work-life balance has improved Nathan's job satisfaction and personal happiness. In an industry where long, gruelling days of overtime is not uncommon during busy periods, Byrd + Link take a different approach.
For Nathan, this emphasis on balance outweighs even the financial rewards. "The remuneration is amazing, but lots of companies pay employees well. What really matters for me is the personal touch — that Byrd + Link care about you as a human being, not just an employee.”
He adds, “At Byrd + Link, we all work incredibly hard, but everyone deserves to have work-life balance. If more capacity is needed, they’ll hire. It’s not your job to do the work of three people — it’s your job to do your role and enjoy your life."
Byrd + Link also supports flexibility when needed. “They understand everyone has a personal life and you can’t necessarily get a doctor’s appointment at 7pm after work. When my wife and I were expecting our first child, Byrd + Link were absolutely amazing the whole way through.”
Byrd + Link’s commitment to flexibility and work-life balance creates a win-win situation. "It makes work more enjoyable, and you respect the firm because they truly have your best interests at heart. You’re motivated to work hard for them because the respect goes both ways.”
Even during busy periods, the firm is proactive about ensuring recovery time. “September is one of our busiest times. Then on 1st October, we hold an open discussion to review what went well, identify areas for improvement, and decide how to implement changes that support work-life balance while maintaining our first-class service for clients.”
Work-life balance is one of Byrd + Link’s biggest priorities. Working extra hours during busy periods is always appreciated but never expected.
Byrd + Link trust that I’ll get my work done. So, when I need time off for something important, like a midwife appointment, it’s never a problem. That flexibility makes a huge difference.
Building strong bonds with colleagues and clients
A key part of Nathan’s enjoyment at Byrd + Link is the strong relationships he’s built with colleagues and clients.
“I really enjoy working with the people here. We all get on well, work hard, and share similar values. Every Tuesday, we jump on a social call — just half an hour to catch up and have some fun. Our Philippines-based colleagues are teaching us some Filipino and grading us for a bit of friendly competition!"
Working with clients who share Byrd + Link’s values also makes a big difference.
“We’re fortunate at Byrd + Link because our clients share the same values and trust what we do, which makes the work more enjoyable for everyone.” His favourite part of the job? “Interacting with clients, especially having high-level discussions to understand their business and how an audit can benefit their systems and controls. I enjoy breaking the misconception that auditors are just there to make life difficult!”
“Given how much time we spend at work, it’s really important to enjoy it. Otherwise, you come home tired and drained, rather than excited to see your family. Now I enjoy my work, I can fully enjoy my time outside of it too."
Feeling valued as a person
While Nathan is proud of his professional milestones — like achieving his RI status and Byrd + Link winning industry awards — what stands out most to him is the firm’s genuine care for its people.
“I consider my colleagues friends. We talk about work every day, of course, but I also really enjoy being able to tell them about my home life and share our personal experiences and highlights.”
"I love that I can come to work and say, for example, my son slept through the night! — and we can laugh about the little wins outside of work. That's where you see they genuinely care about you and your family, and it's nothing to do with work.”
Looking to join our dynamic and supportive team?
Visit our Why Work for Us page to discover what makes Byrd + Link a great place to work.
We are always looking for talented individuals to join us. Check out our current vacancies or send your CV to admin@byrdlink.co.uk for future opportunities.