‘Our primary focus is supporting ambitious owner-managers’

ACTIVITY Over the past year, our firm experienced robust trading performance, with all departments witnessing growth of over 20% year-on-year. Our audit and outsourced accounting services have seen substantial growth as businesses increasingly recognise the value of professional management over inhouse efforts. Additionally, our cybersecurity advisory services have expanded significantly. Our primary focus remains supporting ambitious owner-managers facing resource and expertise limitations, and growing our practice and services both organically and through mergers and acquisitions.

OPERATIONS We are seeking to attract accounting professionals, a challenge not unique to our firm but to our sector. We stress the critical role of technology leadership and adoption in our firm. Our investment strategy is centred around the smart integration of automation, cloud-based CRM and HR systems, and cutting-edge audit tools.

ENHANCED REPORTING Enhanced reporting requirements pose significant challenges to most businesses, and outsourcing payroll is a decision that many businesses find beneficial. The impending introduction of pension auto-enrolment is another consideration clients are mindful of and eager to minimise its potential disruption.

PROFESSION Understanding how technology enhances efficiency is crucial, particularly in managing and analysing large data sets. The critical challenge lies in interpreting what this data signifies for business owners and guiding them towards informed decision-making. As the accountancy profession evolves, a blend of IT proficiency and a thorough grasp of financial fundamentals are crucial.

ENTERPRISE The entrepreneurship journey involves significant risks, especially for those leaving secure, high-paying positions to venture into establishing their businesses. There is an opportunity for improved incentive structures to better support these vital contributors to our economy.

OUTLOOK Business optimism is notably high, with clients expressing positive outlook for investment and growth opportunities over the next two years. The growth in international referrals remains steady, showing no signs of decline. However, many small businesses are finding it challenging to cope with rising costs.