Senior partner at RNS Chartered Accountants John Heeney (left) with Antony at the firm's Scunthorpe office.Colleagues across our three offices are familiar with the schemes but Antony Burnett, in RNS' Scunthorpe office, and Brigg-based Amy Kirkham have become the go-to accountants for the technical detail.
The Government's furlough scheme has been extended until the end of April.
Antony said: “The furlough scheme has saved many businesses from closing and, in that sense, it has been welcome.
“But it can lead to technical questions and calculations. Firms have needed a lot of support to ensure they match the criteria and receive the correct amounts from HMRC.”
The partners approached Antony and Amy about supporting the payroll team and specialising in the furlough scheme when it was announced.
It had taken much of their time since, he said.
“I've enjoyed the new challenge but none of us could have predicted this is what I'd be doing so soon after joining RNS.”
Antony, who lives in Blyton and attended The Queen Elizabeth's High School, joined the firm as an accounts senior earlier in the year.
He used to be landlord of The Gamekeeper in Scotter, but decided to sell the lease to start a career.
He began his accountancy training at home before being taken on by a Scunthorpe firm and then moving to a Gainsborough practice.
He completed his Association of Accounting Technicians' qualification during his five years there.
He said: “I am really happy with the move.
“All the staff and partners have been more than friendly.
“I'm pretty much an all-rounder, having experience in VAT, payroll, company accounts, sole traders and taxation.
“I must admit though I am partial to pub accounts – I have fond memories!”
Outside of work, he plays five and six-a-side football, has two boxer dogs and enjoys a day at the races.
“I play poker regularly with friends and in tournaments, although the big wins are elusive!”
Senior partner John Heeney praised Antony's contribution.
“Colleagues had to quickly adapt to the Job Retention Scheme and Antony's led the way,” he said.
“He's developed a real expertise and been able to support the payroll team.
“It helps he is local to northern Lincolnshire so understands its people and businesses.”