IFSDG: How long have you worked in PwC?
Fraser: 14 years and counting! I joined
PwC straight from Strathclyde University on a 3 year training
contract, and my initial plan was to leave once I'd gained my CA. I
quickly decided against this after learning about the variety of
opportunities and challenges that I could access - not just here in
the UK, but across our global network.
IFSDG: How many people work at PwC?
Fraser: We have more than 800 people
based across the three Scottish offices, with over 300 in Glasgow.
We can also tap into around 180,000 technical and industry
specialists across our global network.
IFSDG: What is the vision for PwC in
Glasgow?
Fraser: In recent years, our focus on our
clients and our people hasn't wavered, nor has our aim of setting
the standard and leading the debate on issues such as
employability, economic growth and trust among our peers. This
approach has helped us build a solid platform from which to grow a
diverse, responsible, and profitable business. In Glasgow, as with
the rest of our UK firm, a key focus has been on investing in our
team, ensuring we have the right skills and depth of expertise
across the markets our clients operate in. Ongoing growth in
financial services within the city also creates further opportunity
for us.
IFSDG: What's a typical day for you?
Fraser: Every day is different at PwC,
which is a huge part of what I enjoy. I am usually at work by
8am with a combination of client meetings, spending time with my
teams, reviewing work and staying on top of the inbox throughout
the day. Whenever possible, I will be out before 6pm so I can
spend time with my family.
IFSDG: Why did PwC choose to locate in the
IFSD in Glasgow?
Fraser: PwC has a long history in
Glasgow. Our move to the IFSD in 2009 was based on the City's
investment in the quality of the infrastructure. Being in the IFSD
allows us to operate close to our client base, with continued
access to the local supply of talent that is vital to our
success.
IFSDG: Three good things about working in
Glasgow?
Fraser: The people and the lifestyle and
opportunities the city offers.
IFSDG: What is your biggest business achievement
to date?
Fraser: Professionally, being promoted to
Partner within PwC in July this year. This is a position I have
aspired to for a number of years. Personally, it has to be
fatherhood, which has changed me more than I realised was
possible!
IFSDG: What is the best investment you ever
made?
Fraser: Focusing on my career when I was
younger. The personal sacrifices made by studying, working
hard and travelling, has brought me fantastic opportunities both
personally and professionally. I feel fortunate to work with
some incredible people across a great client base, which makes
every day interesting and challenging.
IFSDG: Which businessperson or
company do you most admire and why?
Fraser: Sir Richard Branson -
professionally, he's made many significant achievements, overcoming
many challenges along the way, particularly given a humble
beginning. He also has a great zest for life and that comes across
in his many adventures.
IFSDG: What did you want to be when you were a
child?
Fraser: I changed my mind a lot. My
parents will tell you I was destined to be an accountant.
IFSDG: What do you do to relax away from the
office?
Fraser: Time with friends and family is
really important to balance work. Family life is dominated by
my two year old, Holly, who is wise beyond her years - she keeps me
right! When I am not entertaining Holly, I love to cook and am a
keen sports enthusiast, although this is increasingly of the
armchair nature since we had Holly. I do enjoy getting out and
putting the miles in on my bike when the weather is good.
IFSDG: Blackberry or
I-Phone?
Fraser: I-Phone
IFSDG: Suit or no
suit?
Fraser: Suit
IFSDG: Football or
rugby?
Fraser: Football
IFSDG: Wine or beer?
Fraser: Both
IFSDG: Sunshine or
snow?
Fraser: Sunshine (although not too much -
like many Scots, I have a tendency to burn!)
IFSDG: And finally, what three words sum you
up?
Fraser: Integrity, Agility and
Loyalty