Matthew Ward

I have over 10 years experience working in Revenues Council Tax and Business Rates from both local authority and the private sectors. I began my career in Revenues at Luton Borough Council starting as an Apprentice at the age of 18 and worked in the collection of aged debt. I worked my way up the ranks and turned my interest to business rates when I became a visiting and inspections officer, inspecting businesses for all manor of queries including liability and relief applications. This gave me a great insight in the application of completion notice for new properties and part occupied relief. I became the business rates team leader shortly before Covid-19 where I assisted the council in the implantation of the government led grants. I am fully qualified with the IRRV Honours having studied business rates and the impact on the High Street for my dissertation. My main skills are in the administration and payment of business rates and have a keen interest in learning to become a valuation surveyor.

I started at FHP in April 2023 and my role is to use my knowledge to assist clients with the administration and payment of their business rates. This includes applying for exemptions and reliefs which are applicable and instigating rate mitigation. I translate business rates bills for clients and advise when payment should or should not be made.

I am a passionate amateur historian, with a love of English/ British history from the Anglo Saxons to the First World War. In my spare time you will find me emersed in a documentary or reading a book.

I have a love of sport and supporter of my local club Luton Town. I am passionate about cricket, following my county team Surrey, and rugby and enjoy socialising with friends and family.