28th November 2019
Donna Crompton joined Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group, providers of the Lifecycle network, in 2013 and is now a Director in charge of our Liverpool city centre operation. She went to school in Ormskirk, studied accountancy at John Moore’s University and then worked in accountancy roles in manufacturing and insurance before moving into insolvency practice. She now lives in Maghull. In her rare moments of downtime, Donna enjoys yoga and Zumba.
Why did you go into your chosen career?
I come from an accountancy background and like many people who end up working in insolvency, it was a natural progression to move into this world. It helps me relate to the many accountants who refer work to us – we speak the same language.
Who has inspired your business life and why?
Insolvency Practitioner David Moore – a fantastic professional and gentleman – who I have worked with since 1998. David is an expert in field and very well respected in the professional business community in Liverpool. He has been my role model and inspiration for many years.
Talk about a memorable recruit and what they bring to the business
That would have to be Associate Director Lisa Ion who deals with a range of company and personal insolvency matters across various sectors. She has developed so much since joining in 2017 and now has a senior role on all Liverpool cases. She has brought in specialist insolvency expertise, integrated superbly with the team and the Liverpool marketplace and is a champion of office efficiency – her input makes us all work smarter. Lisa has been a great hire for us.
What is your proudest achievement in business?
Becoming the first female director of Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group in 2018 – now one of six – after helping to establish its Liverpool operation and seeing some serious growth.
Tell us about an embarrassing moment in your career?
Many years ago I was asked to make a coffee for a long-standing client at a very important meeting. After politely taking the drink and finishing it he then asked me why there was a tea bag at the bottom of the cup!
What is the most valuable business lesson you have learnt?
To never fall out with people, even if you don’t agree with them, and treat everyone fairly. In our profession we deal with a lot of business owners who have lost their livelihoods so a bit of TLC goes a long way.
How do you stay ahead of the game?
By recognising the importance of networking and making more people aware of Leonard Curtis and its services. Also looking for new opportunities and we will be doing that in Chester in the near future with a new office opening. You also, of course, have to keep right up to date with latest insolvency legislation and general developments in the profession.
When do you come up with your best business ideas?
On the road! I spend a lot of time driving to meet with clients and contacts so tend to come up with my best business ideas in my car.
How do you switch off?
I find it quite difficult to switch off completely as clients often call for advice and reassurance out of office hours. I pride myself on being there for them at those times. However, I do enjoy spending time with my family. I have two grown up sons (who still need me) and are into extreme sports so I watch them, holding the coats!
Which book or film has inspired you?
Two films come to mind. Erin Brockovich which starred Julia Roberts and Pursuit of Happyness with Will Smith. I have always admired individuals who set themselves goals and achieve them by sheer dedication and hard work.
Why should people choose Liverpool City Region to live and work?
I am totally biased here because I adore our great city – it’s a great place to be. Liverpool has the friendliest people around in my view and some of the hardest working. It has a proud commercial history and a growing visitor economy, a legacy of being made European City of Culture a few years ago. We also boast two long-established Premiership football sides. (I support the best one!).
What makes your blood boil?
Lateness, bad manners and selfishness.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
This is a difficult question. I suspect I will be doing the same work but perhaps extended to other areas of the North West. Practice development is a continuous role, ensuring existing clients are happy with the services provided and potential ones know the value of what we do. While we are most famous for insolvency Leonard Curtis have many other service lines relating to funding and corporate strategy, which can assist businesses in distress, or, indeed looking to grow and develop. In five years’ time I’d hope we were as well known for all the other areas of expertise too – that’s my job.
What was your best ever business decision?
Joining the prestigious Leonard Curtis brand in 2013 and helping them set up a Liverpool office and being part of a phenomenal time of growth for them across the UK. Chester will be office number 19. It is a straight-talking, friendly culture which I love and gets results for people.