Two rising stars earn promotion
We have a big piece of news concerning two members of our team – Sonja Dengler and James Allsop. Both have been promoted to Manager roles at Page Kirk in recognition of their commitment to the firm over a number of years, as well as their personal development.
Sonja joined us in 2019 as a trainee accountant and qualified in 2023. Since then, she has become an integral part of our audit and accounts team, known for her thorough, client-focused approach and her passion for helping businesses improve their processes and build financial confidence.
Her route into accountancy hasn't been entirely conventional. With a combined degree in Mathematics and English Literature, she brings a combination of analytical thinking and strong communication skills that naturally translate into client work.
“I've always enjoyed problem-solving, but also understanding the bigger picture, how businesses operate, what challenges they face, and how we can support them,” she says.
Sonja's progression has been shaped by hands-on experience, a wide variety of client work, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone — including an international secondment in the United States through the firm's Accelerate network, which connects us with forward-thinking firms around the world through Crowe Global.
Like many in the profession, Sonja's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Balancing exams alongside full-time client work, adapting to increasingly complex assignments, and building confidence in leadership situations have all played a part in her development.
“One of the biggest challenges is learning to trust your own judgement. As you progress, you move from completing tasks to reviewing work and making decisions. That shift takes time, but it's been a really valuable part of the process.”
She is also a strong supporter of her colleagues, regularly sharing knowledge and encouraging the development of junior team members.
As she steps into her new role, Sonja wants to expand her impact both with clients and within the team. And for anyone considering a career in accountancy, Sonja offers simple, but valuable, advice:
“Be open to learning and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The technical side is important, but so is understanding people and businesses. The more curious you are, the more you'll get out of it.”
James, meanwhile, joined Page Kirk in 2020 through our graduate scheme and has consistently demonstrated a responsible, collaborative approach. He is committed to understanding each client's goals and identifying opportunities to add value.
His work with UK branches of multinational businesses has seen him go a step further, even learning French to better support French-owned subsidiaries and strengthen client relationships.
After qualifying in 2023 and being promoted to Assistant Manager in 2024, this latest step reflects his continued hard work and development.
For James, the new opportunity is a significant milestone.
“Professionally, the promotion means a lot. It validates that the work it took to get here is worth it and that my commitment to the firm and my own technical progress has been recognised. It feels like a big step in my career.
“When I first started, I remember looking at the Managers and thinking they were so skilled that it would be impossible for me to reach that level.
“I decided to put my head down and work hard, focusing on my technical weaknesses and turning them into strengths and showing that I was ready to take on more responsibility.”
His progression reflects that mindset, combined with the ability to take opportunities when they arise.
“I think promotions sometimes come down to timing and opportunity. I was fortunate that the Assistant Manager role became available, and I like to think I took that opportunity and ran with it, which has led me to where I am now.”
Alongside his client work, James plays a key role in the firm's continued growth through business development, building strong relationships with prospective clients and converting new opportunities.
He is also a keen advocate of the graduate scheme, having joined from the University of Lincoln, and is passionate about helping others at the start of their careers.
“There's a lot to learn in this industry,” he remarks, “so I think it's important not to specialise too early. At Page Kirk, graduates get exposure to tax, audit and accounts, which is a fantastic opportunity. I still have a toe in all these areas and really enjoy the variety. It can feel daunting when you first start your professional qualification, but a few years of hard work can really pay off in the long term.”
Managing partner John Wallis offered his thanks to the two new Managers for the contribution they've already made and shared his thoughts on the promotions:
“Congratulations to both James and Sonja who have worked extremely hard, and their dedication has not gone unnoticed. As a firm, we are proud to promote from within, and it's fantastic to recognise two individuals who consistently go above and beyond to help both our clients and our team. I look forward to supporting James and Sonja in their new roles.”
