The name CGA derives from The Country Gentleman’s Association (no women allowed) of which Stacey McVeighty’s firm, then known as Goftons, was a member about 100 years ago.

Clearly times have changed, with increasing ways in which women are breaking through barriers.

In Stacey’s case she arrived at CGA straight from school 11 years ago, trained with the practice, starting by being thrown in at the deep end.

By the age of 23 she was a fully qualified accountant and four years later she was made a partner.

She says: “I was the youngest ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) partner in the region. I am very proud of my achievements, as I did not go to university and I am young and female – all of which is against the industry ‘norm’.

Stacey is involved with the ACCA as president of the York & North Yorkshire area and visits schools to encourage young students to consider accountancy and to think about their options instead of just going to university on “autopilot”. She says: “I like to think I’m not like your average accountant. I am a green champion and have made our office paperless, which is quite something for an accountancy practice and I am a live music obsessive. I love festivals and gigs.

“In fact, I am the opposite of a stereotypical accountant, the only real trait is that I am passionate about helping my clients understand their figures, which is why when I am asked at parties what I do for a living, I refer to myself as a numerical therapist. I love to talk to my clients and ease their concerns, worries and stresses.”

Which job (other than your own) would you like to have and why?

Gig reviewer for a music magazine because I love music, especially new music and it would be a good excuse to go to even more gigs.

Greatest achievement?

Becoming one of the youngest female ACCA partners when I became a partner at CGA at the age of 27.

Biggest mistake?

I don’t believe in dwelling on mistakes or regrets, they made me what I am today.

What makes you most angry?

Liars.

What makes you laugh?

My family. All have a fabulous sense of humour. My sister, Victoria, has the ability to make me cry with laughter. Plus my other half texts me really rubbish jokes, but they always brighten my day and make me giggle.

What fools do you suffer least?

People who refuse to take responsibility for their actions. If you’ve done something wrong, hold your hands up and learn from the experience.

Whom do you most admire and why?

James Dyson. It took five years and more than 5,000 prototypes to get the first Dyson vacuum cleaner into development. You have to admire someone who is willing to keep changing and trying different things until he succeeds.

What do you need to make life complete?

Hopefully I have a long time left to achieve this and my long-term list is constantly evolving. However, I'm pretty happy with my life now.

How do you relax?

Music! Either listening to my Ipod or going to gigs. I am lucky enough attend gigs every month. Last year I saw more than 60 bands and this year will hopefully match that.

Why do you make a difference?

I hope that I have helped to change the perception of women in accountancy, if only in our local area. However, I have much bigger plans so watch this space.

Name the organisation you see as the perfect one (not your own) and why

Tesco, because it’s a British success story. Although it's not quite perfect and they might upset some people along the way, in general they are a massive boost to our economy, adapting to changing markets in a phenomenal fashion. They are an example of a brilliant business model.

Favourite record?

Do I have to pick one? It changes a lot depending on who I’ve seen lately or when I see a new band, but I think my all-time favourite might be Sometime Around Midnight by The Airborne Toxic Event.

Favourite holiday destination?

Barcelona. It's a beautiful city - and so many shoe shops!

Your epitaph

Maybe now she'll stop talking.