Margaret’s 40th anniversary: Loyalty, laughter, and lasting impact

This month, we’re celebrating something really special: Margaret Hall’s 40th anniversary with the firm. Margaret’s story is a refreshing reminder of the value of loyalty, community, and finding joy in your work. As we celebrate her work anniversary, we sat down with Margaret to hear some of her memories and thoughts on how Shorts has changed over the years, and her advice for anyone just starting out.

Starting out: A leap of faith

Margaret’s journey with Shorts began in the mid 1980s, when she was looking for a new challenge after qualifying at a smaller regional accountancy firm. “I wanted to work somewhere a bit bigger,” she recalls. After a friendly and memorable interview at Shorts with Pete Freeman and Jim Brier, Margaret knew she’d found the right place. “They were just great. I really liked them, and I thought, ‘Yeah, this is a good place to come.’”

Back then, job interviews were a lot simpler than today - no endless applications or weeks of waiting. “You just used to rock up and they’d ask you a few questions,” Margaret laughs. “These days, the process is certainly more thorough, and you might wait much little longer for a reply from some firms.”

Why stay for 40 years?

When asked why she’s stayed at Shorts for four decades, Margaret’s answer is simple: “I like it. I like coming to work every day. I like the people. They’re very professional, but there’s a softer side too.” She’s proud of her long service, even if it’s sometimes seen as old-fashioned. “When I started out working back in the '80s, staying somewhere for 40 years or so was something that you aspired to. These days however, people often move roles every few years, but I think there’s a lot to be said for sticking around and really getting to know a place.”

Margaret fondly remembers colleagues like Bernard Jagger - “He was really strict, but really fair” - and the sense of camaraderie that made Shorts feel like a family. “Everyone loved Bernard. He was a real character, and so was Andrew. There was a real sense of continuity.”

The evolution of Shorts

Shorts has changed a lot since Margaret’s first day. “When I joined, we had just one office in Chesterfield, four partners, and not that many staff. We even had a tea lady, and then later a tea man - Phil, who was so warm and funny. Now, we’ve grown so much, with specialist departments.”

One of the biggest changes Margaret has seen is the move from pen-and-paper to computers. “Honestly, I don’t know how we managed before. Everything took so long! Now, with technology, things are so much quicker - even if I am a bit of a dinosaur with it,” she jokes.

Despite the growth, Margaret loves that Shorts has kept its open-door policy. “You don’t have to book a meeting to talk to someone. You can just pop in and ask a question. That’s something I really value.”

Favourite memories: Christmas parties and company traditions

No celebration of Margaret’s time at Shorts would be complete without mentioning the legendary Christmas parties. “I’ve not missed one - even when I was eight months pregnant!” Margaret laughs. She recalls games, laughter, and many high jinks over the years. 

Margaret also remembers the firm’s centenary celebrations and the sense of history that comes with being part of a company with such deep roots. “It made you think about all the people who’d worked here before; all the people who were part of the story of Shorts. There’s a photograph from 1990, the centenary year, with everyone on the stairs in our Chesterfield office. It’s lovely to look back and see how far we’ve come.”

(1990 centenary)

Overcoming challenges

Of course, 40 years brings its share of challenges. Margaret has seen company mergers, office moves, and even the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We adapted so quickly to remote working. I’m not a fan of working from home myself, but it was amazing how everyone pulled together and kept things running. We just got through it.”

She also reflects on the complexities of integrating with other firms and adapting to new teams and clients. “There were challenges along the way, but each time, we supported one another.”

The power of mentorship

Margaret credits much of her success to the mentors she’s had along the way - and remembers fondly people like Bernard, Brian Sewell, and Terry Dryburgh. “They were brilliant. I’ve tried to pass on what I learned, but I know I fall short sometimes. Still, I always try to help others, just like they helped me.”

Her advice to young people starting out? “Do everything you can. Experience every opportunity that’s available to you. Just go for it - not just in work, but in life. Be confident, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to try new things.”

Looking back - and forward

For Margaret, reaching 40 years at Shorts is a source of pride and gratitude. “It’s a bit of an achievement, to be fair and I’m proud of it. I’ve made great friends, learned so much, and been part of something special.”

She hopes her story will inspire others to see the value in building lasting relationships, embracing change, and making the most of every opportunity. “There’s always someone to help you out at Shorts. That’s what makes it such a great place to work.”

As we celebrate Margaret’s incredible milestone, we thank her for her dedication, her warmth, and the countless ways that her contributions have helped to shape the Shorts family. Here’s to Margaret—and to many more years of memories, laughter, and success!

Margaret's team profile in full