‘We are determined to grow our presence’

OWEN SHEEHY

ACTIVITY The firm enjoyed a very strong year in 2023, with fee income of c.€5.5m. In the latter part of the year, the firm was acquired by Dains Accountants. Dains is the fastest growing accountancy firm in the UK’s top 100 firms, with combined fees in 2024 estimated to be in excess of £60m. The acquisition brings with it a wealth of resources and a 650-strong workforce, and will allow us to expand our service offerings and continue our growth journey in Ireland and the UK.

We are determined to grow our presence in Ireland in 2024, through strategic acquisition. Our focus will not only be on the portfolio of firms but also on the skillset of their teams.

OPERATIONS Although recruitment continues to be an issue, we are happy to have seen improvements in staff retention. We have a policy of over-resourcing when possible, and we will always make space for skilled staff. We have adapted our working policies to ensure the needs of our staff are met. Among a range of initiatives, we introduced a compressed working week, and our size and location in north county Dublin means we can continue to offer challenging work without a commute to the city centre.

ENHANCED REPORTING We offer a comprehensive payroll service, and our specialist team can assist clients with any difficulties encountered with legislative changes. Operation of payroll can often be a drain on key personnel in small businesses. The process can be easily transferred to our team, and gives the client assurance that they are compliant.

TECHNOLOGY IT will create efficiencies within the sector but we have to have the technical knowledge to make automated outputs understandable for clients. The Dains group has a comprehensive integration plan, and enhanced IT systems and operational efficiencies play a key role. The integration gives us the opportunity to review our systems and processes, adopt best practice, and free up resources to provide clients with key management information.