My Yorkshire: Rob McCarthy, Partner at Dow Schofield Watts Transaction Services

Dow Schofield Watts boasts a team of 52 experienced advisory professionals, including 11 focused on financial due diligence in its Transaction Services team. On the third anniversary of Rob McCarthy establishing the firm’s Leeds-based due diligence practice, he sets out what makes him a proud Yorkshireman.

Where do you live / where are you from?

I was born and raised in Rotherham. I went to the University of Sheffield before flying the Yorkshire-nest. I currently live in Glossop (via London, Frankfurt, Manchester and New York) – we live there to be closer to the in-laws.

What is your favourite place to visit and why?

I love getting across to the Rivelin Valley on the edge of Sheffield, either for a walk with our two boxer dogs or taking my trail running shoes and going for a leisurely jog. It’s a peaceful and timeless place in one regard, but always changing with the seasons. There’s always a new route to discover.

What is still on your to do list in the region?

It’s a long list, so I’ll just mention what my wife and I have scheduled in September: Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Saltaire Village and Wentworth Woodhouse (generally an excuse for an oversized Sunday lunch at the George & Dragon in Wentworth).

What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?

I should give kudos to my mum’s Sunday roast really, but I’m sure all Yorkshire folk believe their mum’s Yorkshire puddings are the best in the World!

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

While living in New York for 9 years, I had to dilute my accent a bit – it was either change the accent or never ever be understood. So now that I’m “back home” my accent is getting broader by the day.

Favourite piece of trivia about the region?

Rotherham has a heritage trial – yes really! Myself and my wife experienced the trail on a trip back to Rotherham while we were living in New York. Despite living in Rotherham for 20 years, I saw many fantastic things that had been right there under my feet the whole time.

What is your favourite cultural icon from the region?

Sport is our modern-day culture and I’m a huge sporting nut, especially athletics. I’m involved with Special Olympics GB and have been coaching athletics for 20 years. I’d therefore have to highlight Jessica Ennis-Hill, Peter Elliott and the Brownlee brothers (I hear they are half decent on a bike as well as running).

What is one thing you’d steal from Lancashire if you could?

Well I had to Google what Lancashire was famous for! Apparently, Lancastrians invented jelly babies – so, that’s something I’d give them kudos for.

What’s the worst experience, or the worst thing about Yorkshire?

We all tend to be a bit territorial within the four boundaries of South, North, East and West – in business and in sport. Imagine what a Powerhouse (to coin a phrase) Yorkshire would be if those boundaries were truly put aside.