This article first appeared on Business Live.

Paul Shields has over 25 years’ experience working in accountancy practises in the North East, working across sectors, and with a real specialism in the Engineering & Manufacturing sector. Heading up our Newcastle office, Paul is focused on advising and supporting the region’s most prominent sectors and ambitious businesses and has big plans for expanding the business’ offering in the North East. 

What was your first job (and how much did it pay)?  

I sold half-time refreshments at Roker Park, the former home of Sunderland Football Club. We earned £8 per match, and one of the perks was getting to watch the first 30 minutes of the game, and as much of the second half as possible after we cashed up! 

What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business? 

The advice that has resonated with me the most throughout my career is to be an ‘Authentic Leader’ – really understanding who you are, what matters to you and bringing that into a leadership role. Learn as much as you can from the managers and leaders you’ve worked with (good and bad!) and use it to focus on leading in a way that is true to yourself. 

What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you’re facing? 

The biggest shift has been the rise of Private Equity ownership in professional service businesses. While it has its challenges, it also opens up huge opportunities for independent firms. We have to adapt to the fast-paced changes in service delivery, especially with advancements in AI and technology. These changes are shaking up the role of accountancy firms, allowing us to shift from data analysis to offering more strategic advice to our clients.

What would your dream job be? 

I grew up playing sports, and my ambition was to become a professional cricketer. That didn’t quite work out but I’m lucky enough to still play and coach and my son loves it, so I still get to spend plenty of time with the cricket team. 

What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector? 

I always encourage trainees and graduates to gain as much experience as possible; invest time in building your career. Rather than fixating on promotions or the next role, concentrate on passing your exams, gaining new experiences and being open to opportunities that go beyond your day-to-day job, such as attending industry events and networking. 

What makes the North East a good place to do business? 

It might sound like a cliché, but I genuinely believe the North East has some of the best people in the country (and the world). There's a strong sense of community and a willingness to support one another. When local businesses succeed, it’s seen as a collective achievement, and that collaboration helps to drive growth and innovation in the region.

How important is it for business to play a role in society? 

Businesses play a crucial role in shaping society, especially in what is a new world of work with hybrid cultures Since we spend a large portion of our lives at work, business leaders have a huge responsibility to create positive workplace cultures, where team members feel inspired and supported and with opportunities for both professional and personal growth.  

Outside of work, what are you really good at? 

It depends who you ask! I would like to think I am a good husband and father, though my wife and teenage daughters might not always agree. Outside of family life, I am heavily involved with Whitburn Cricket Club, coaching the junior teams. We’ve seen some great success over the last few years, largely down to the players and the support of their parents, but I’d like to think I’ve played a small part in it, too.

Who would play you in a film about your life? 

I’m not sure a film about my life would be on the production studio list, but if I had to pick, it would probably someone like Peter Kay. 

Which three people would you invite to a dinner party, and why? 

I’m not sure I said, but I’m a big sports fan and enjoy reading sport biographies, so it would be interesting to hear the stories behind some of the biggest moments in sporting history. I’d invite Shane Warne, Roy Keane and Tiger Woods.