Tag Archives: Accountants

Accountancy, Appointments, Business, Investment, Newport, South Wales

Kilsby Williams continues to grow with new appointments

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams has strengthened its business services and tax teams as the Newport-based firm continues to grow.

Ken Vargis has been appointed as a manager in Kilsby Williams’ business services team. An assurance professional, Ken will be applying his significant auditing expertise to support the firm’s varied client portfolio.

Ken said: “I am elated to be joining Kilsby Williams at such a pivotal point in its growth. I am looking forward to working with new clients, and adding value to their business by providing robust services.”

Joining Ken in the business services team is Hannah Griffiths, a Swansea University accounting and finance graduate.

In her role as business services assistant, Hannah will be involved in the preparation of accounts for a number of clients and assisting with audits, while working towards the ACA qualification to become a chartered accountant and progress further in the firm.

In the tax team, Cardiff University graduate Luis McCarthy has been appointed as a trainee. He will support the team with the preparation of corporation and personal tax returns and will study towards the ATT and CTA exams to become a chartered tax advisor.

Ataf Salim, partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “We are focused on attracting the best accountancy and tax talent at every stage of their careers and are pleased to share the news of our latest appointments ranging from trainee to managerial level.

“As the largest independent firm in the region, it is exciting to grow even further and we know that Ken, Hannah and Luis’ work will strengthen our services.”

Established in 1991, Kilsby Williams works with clients from across south Wales, the Midlands and London, ranging from sole traders to companies in international quoted groups.

News

Accountants power ahead with net zero vision in partnership with energy group

AN ACCLAIMED accountancy practice is powering ahead with its net zero vision.

Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants has installed 24 solar panels, an energy storage system and electric charging points at its St Asaph headquarters and unveiled plans to continue lowering the carbon footprint at its other offices in Ruthin, Beaumaris, Tywyn, and Menai Bridge.

In partnership with Carbon Zero Renewables – part of Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside – a state-of-the-art system was fitted earlier this year and is already having an effect, saving the company more than 1,114kg of CO2, the equivalent of planting 68 trees.

Over the course of its 20-year life span that’s almost 2,300 trees planted, and an expected annual saving of around £3,000.

Director Aled Roberts said this is the latest step in Salisbury’s “giving back” to its community, and ultimately, the planet, following a stellar year which has seen them rise to 33 staff and introduce new benefits and incentives to support the growth and wellbeing of their workforce.

“As a responsible business we are always aiming to do more for the environment,” said Aled.

“We recycle, have introduced electric charging points and LED lighting in St Asaph and installed solar panels this year, with plans for more at other sites where possible.

“Given the amount of electricity we use given our growing workforce it made sense to install solar panels, and the findings are obvious, from a financial and climate change perspective.

“It’s also good to support another local business, and together with Carbon Zero Renewables we can move forward as a greener, more environmentally responsible organisation.

“The results are amazing, and I would encourage others to follow suit given the devastating impact energy prices are having on industry in North Wales and beyond.”

Gareth Jones, Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables, and a Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council, praised Salisbury’s for being ahead of the curve in implementing the innovative solar energy system.

“We are hearing from more and more businesses, but it is a surprise how many are not proactively looking to introduce solar panels and other alternatives to high-cost, traditional fossil fuels, especially given the current economic and social climate,” he said.

“Energy bills are spiralling, and a lot of private sector firms are locked into long-term contracts which are having a massive effect on their livelihoods. Some have even been forced to shut down after trading for many years because they can’t afford to pay their electricity bills, which is sad to see.”

Gareth added: “Fortunately, people are starting to make the switch and we are installing systems in many different sectors from tourism and hospitality to finance and more. For those who have the space and capacity to do so, it’s a no-brainer.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

News

Staff progression and expansion vision for leading accountancy firm

PROMOTION and progression of key staff are being celebrated at a leading accountancy firm.

Based in St Asaph, Menai Bridge, Ruthin and Beaumaris, Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants has seen apprentices and long-standing team members move on to new roles in past weeks.

And directors are planning to expand further in 2023 after a surge in clients across multiple sectors.

Among those to have started their career as trainees and moved up to qualified accountant status are Eiry Owen, from Llanrwst, and Sophie Jones, from Penmaenmawr.

Meanwhile, Hannah Addison, from Dyserth, is now an executive manager and Rhyl’s Sian Sparkes, who joined the firm seven years ago, has risen to become payroll manager while garnering a CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) Payroll Management foundation degree.

Originally, from Llysfaen, Sian praised Salisbury’s for nurturing employees from the moment they join the company.

“The directors are incredibly supportive and encourage you to drive forward to achieve a high standard of learning and development within your chosen career path,” she added.

“For me going back to studying after so many years as a mum of two young children, and during the pandemic, was a challenge, but with their backing I did it and am immensely proud to have achieved the degree.”

Those words were echoed by Sophie, a former Ysgol Aberconwy pupil who was nominated for the Apprentice of the Year Award while completing the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) course at Grwp Llandrillo Menai, Rhos-on-Sea.

“I chose accountancy as it’s a respected career and since joining Salisbury’s as a trainee I’ve had the opportunity to grow and gain experience while learning, which has given me the best of both worlds,” said Sophie.

“As my knowledge grows so does my confidence and responsibilities, so I now have the chance to train others coming through and pass on what I’ve learned to them. I would recommend this path to anyone wanting to access this sector, I’ve been so lucky and am very thankful to the team here for their support.”

Eiry believes being exposed to a wide range of different clients and caseloads has “greatly benefited” her progression, while Hannah – who graduated from Newcastle University with a degree in Maths – says work experience was key to her success.

“I volunteered in different banking and investment roles before coming to Salisbury’s, which was the best move I could have made,” she added.

“After university I was a little wary of having to continue studying but it has all been worth it, especially at a firm like this where the experience you gain is invaluable.”

Luke Owen, Tyler Lloyd-Hughes, Abbi Neville and Jack Roberts joined the business in the last 12 months and are already pursuing accountancy qualifications.

And in payroll, Leah Williams and Julie Jones have gained CIPP certificates.

Directors Aled Roberts, Jeremy Salisbury and Jason Matischok all joined the practice as trainees and congratulated their “hard-working” and “inspirational” team for the commitment shown throughout the pandemic and beyond.

“A large part of their study time has been online and during the pandemic, but it didn’t stop them, they’ve all gone on to achieve what they set out for,” said Aled.

“We invest in our trainees from day one, they are the future of not only this company, but this sector and we could not be prouder of them.”

Jeremy said their links with colleges and universities in North Wales will help bring through the next generation of workers to the sector, coupled with a new health and wellbeing strategy which includes mindfulness days, birthdays off and a shorter working week.

Jason added: “We are always looking to attract young, talented apprentices to Salisbury’s, and as we continue to expand and our client base grows that is going to be more important than ever.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

News

Accountancy firm continues expansion with North Wales merger

AN ACCOUNTANCY practice unveiled a new partnership with one of Anglesey’s longest standing firms.

Fowler and Hare Ltd is now part of Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants.

The acquisition follows a merger with Lotti Summers Ltd earlier this year, and means the company now has sites in St Asaph, Ruthin, Menai Bridge, and Beaumaris.

Owner Peter Fowler will join Salisbury’s as a consultant and all staff will be retained.

He said: “I’m delighted to be involved with Salisbury’s as they operate in the same way as I have over the years, with a ‘client comes first’ approach to everything they do. I look forward to working with them.”

The move came after the award-winning group – which has grown to a workforce of more than 30 people in 2022 – designed a new health and wellbeing strategy for employees, which includes mindfulness days, birthdays off and a shorter working week.

“We are proud to be in partnership with Fowler and Hare Ltd and look forward to representing their clients,” said Salisbury’s director Aled Roberts.

“It is one of the longest-standing accountancy firms on the island so to have Peter’s experience and expertise alongside that of our team will be invaluable going forward.

“Our name is growing in North Wales and beyond, we will continue to build on that and are pleased with the progress made this year.”

Fellow directors Jeremy Salisbury and Jason Matischok said while further growth, more staff and an increase in turnover are to be welcomed, one of the key priorities for the business is the health and happiness of its staff and clients.

“That is so important to us, especially post-pandemic given the challenges people have faced and continue to face, socially, financially and in terms of their mental and physical health,” said Jason.

“Introducing these changes  is a small way for us to give back because the last few years have been unprecedented; it’s crucial we remember that and make sure our people know we are here for them, whether they need some time off to care for a relative or resolve a personal issue, to slightly extending our opening hours so we they can finish earlier on a Friday and have a longer weekend with their friends and families.”

Jeremy added: “From our investment in staff development to the technological improvements we have made to our IT and cyber-security infrastructure, we aim to give even more peace of mind and continue raising the bar for customer service in the accountancy sector.

“We have plans for the coming months but are also aware this is a very busy tax period for businesses, so if anyone is in need of support and guidance please get in touch – our door is always open.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

News

Established accountancy firm grows by a third in two months due to customer demand

A BOOMING accountancy practice has taken on 10 new staff in less than two months to meet a surge in demand for its award-winning services.

Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants is experiencing its busiest ever summer, with more and more clients joining the North Wales firm.

Based in St Asaph, Menai Bridge, Ruthin and Penmaenmawr, the business has gone from strength to strength in 2022 and expansion looks set to continue throughout the year.

Among those joining Salisbury’s were senior executive manager Caryl Rees, from Y Felinheli; Llandudno Junction-based trainee accountant Luke Owen; trainee accountant Abbi Neville, from Rhos-on-Sea; chartered accountant Sherie Harding, from Llanddulas; Conwy trainee accountant Tyler Lloyd-Hughes; accountant Liam Bond, from Rhos-on-Sea; AAT student Christopher Griffin, from Mold; Prestatyn-based office administrator Elley Davies; Gemma Lloyd, a payroll coordinator from Bodelwyddan.

And trainee accountant Jack Roberts, from Pwllheli, has joined a team of a different sort after almost a decade playing centre for professional rugby union sides including Leicester Tigers and Cardiff Blues.

Directors Jeremy Salisbury, Aled Roberts and Jason Matischok said their continued growth – including a recently-unveiled partnership with Lotti Summers Ltd in Beaumaris, Anglesey – is testament to Salisbury’s burgeoning reputation for staff development and customer satisfaction.

“We have enjoyed a very busy period and welcomed new clients from across the region and beyond,” said Jeremy.

“Work for existing customers has also increased so we are delighted, but maintaining our high standards is pivotal and the top priority.

“There are opportunities to grow further but our focus now is on welcoming the new members of the team and settling them into what are key roles for the organisation.”

Given the recruitment crisis nationally, Aled was heartened to receive such a volume of quality applications.

“The calibre of candidates was exceptional, we are really pleased with the mix of experience, talent and enthusiasm they will bring to Salisbury’s,” he said.

“Our people are the biggest asset to this company and as we now have around 40 in the team – we’ve grown by a third in less than a year – to have them all in place is fantastic.”

Jeremy added: “Demand is high, and we could look to take on more staff but will continue to develop steadily and sustainably as before.

“We’ve seen a lot of organic growth and that looks set to maintain because of the strategic decisions we’ve made in 2022 – it’s an exciting time for them to be joining us.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

 

News

Prominent Anglesey accountant joins forces with leading name in the sector

A LONG-STANDING accountancy firm has joined forces with a leading name in the sector.

Lotti Summers Ltd in Beaumaris, Anglesey, is now part of Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants.

The move comes after Salisbury’s – based in St Asaph, Penmaenmawr and Ruthin – opened new offices in Menai Bridge.

Lotti grew up on the island and has spent more than 30 years in the industry; she and colleague Jess Massey are delighted to retain the company’s identity while uniting with the award-winning practice, led by Directors Aled Roberts, Jeremy Salisbury, and Jason Matischok.

“I look forward to this next chapter for the company and to being part of the team at Salisbury’s,” said Lotti.

“We have worked non-stop throughout the pandemic and have incredible clients, but this gives me the opportunity to find more of a work-life balance and spend time with my daughter, Naya.

“The Lotti Summers name will remain as the firm has been in Beaumaris for almost 20 years, so this is a platform to strengthen in partnership with Salisbury’s and grow together.”

She added: “We were so busy as a business we had to turn clients away so with extra resources we can be there for even more people and continue to deliver a first-class service.”

Aled says the collaboration is “a perfect fit at the perfect time” and is delighted to welcome them to the group.

“From an administrative perspective especially, we can lighten the load and focus on further expansion,” he added.

“Following the opening of our Menai Bridge office earlier this year the move demonstrates our commitment to North Wales and clients across the region.

“Our ethos is on development of staff and always trying to improve, and by increasing our footprint we can continue to provide clients with a high-quality offering that retains the personal touch.

“We are all excited for the future and looking forward to working together.”

With more staff set to join Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants, their workforce will be more than 35-strong by the autumn.

Jason said: “This new partnership with Lotti Summer reinforces our focus on finding the right people who fit with our culture and developing in tandem.”

Jeremy added: “We are thrilled to have Lotti and Jess on board and wish them every success for the future.

“They are a fantastic addition to the team and join us at a pivotal time for the company and the industry.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

Accounts and Accountancy, News, Tax

WhisperClaims Expands its R&D Tax Claims Offering with Automated Risk Assessment and Claims Review Service

WhisperClaims, the award-winning R&D tax claims software for accountants, today announces the addition of new Risk Assessment functionality within the WhisperClaims app and a new expert Claims Review service, both designed to help accountancy firms raise standards in the R&D tax relief world.

Since its foundation in 2018, WhisperClaims has sought to bring openness, transparency and efficiency to the R&D tax space, helping the UK’s SME business community benefit from the HMRC scheme by empowering accountants with software and support that enables them to provide R&D tax claims services with confidence[i].

These latest additions to both its cloud-based software platform and customer support service are designed to help accountancy firms make more informed decisions about their clients’ claims, and ensure submitted claims are robust and defensible.

Mike Dean, Managing Director, WhisperClaims, comments: “R&D tax claims represent a potentially huge service line for accountancy firms, as many recognise in their quest to move beyond compliance to the provision of advisory services. But it remains largely untapped. WhisperClaims recognises that accountants need support: support in navigating the complexity of clients’ eligibility criteria for the tax relief scheme; support in understanding which of their client portfolio qualifies; and support in mitigating the arduous and manual processes associated with completing an effective and audited claim. These additions to our product and service offering are designed to provide that much needed support to our clients.”

WhisperClaims’ Risk Assessment is an automated tool in its award-winning app. Every claim prepared is automatically assessed against at a variety of factors, including company sector, size of claim and company turnover, in order to benchmark the claim against claims for similar companies and give a rating of how likely the claim is to a) attract attention from HMRC and b) stand up to their questions. It’s not a measure of the eligibility of a claim, but a tool to help accountants understand the weaknesses of the claim and take steps to mitigate the highlighted risks.

The Claims Review service is a manual process whereby one of WhisperClaims’ R&D experts takes a deep-dive into the prepared claim and any other publicly available information about the claimant company, to produce a detailed document about the claim. The review looks at the likelihood that projects are eligible, based on the information provided, and analyses the costs to ensure that the claim hangs together.

Building upon WhisperClaims’ existing Portfolio Review tool, which helps firms understand which of their clients are likely to be eligible for R&D tax relief, the services underpin the company’s mission to help accountants and their clients successfully and effectively navigate the complexities of the scheme.

Mike adds, “HMRC has conducted several consultations around the scheme and has recognised the need to clamp down on what can only be described as ‘cowboy claims’. One of the measures they are introducing from April 2023 is that every claim submitted must be supported by a written report, signed off by the client and identifying the advisor. As regulated and accredited professionals, HMRC recognises that accountants are ideally positioned to provide this service. This is why WhisperClaims is committed to helping our clients raise the standards in R&D tax relief, by providing them with the right tools to have confidence in the process.”

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About WhisperClaims

WhisperClaims is an R&D tax fintech company based in Edinburgh. Founded in 2018, it offers award-winning R&D tax credit software and support that enables the accounting industry to deliver a comprehensive R&D tax relief service to their clients.

Since inception, WhisperClaims has so far enabled over 160 firms across the UK to process over 2200 claims worth over £310m in eligible R&D spend. Its subscriber base includes all sizes of accounting and consulting businesses, from one-man-bands to several UK Top100 firms.

The company won the ‘Best use of Innovation’ award at the 2018 UK Business Tech Awards; the ‘Emerging FinTech Company of the Year’ award at the Scottish Accountancy & Financial Technology Awards 2019; the “Non-Accounting Cloud or Banking App of the Year” award at the 2020 Accounting Excellence Awards and in October 2021 they were chosen as part of the TechNation Fintech 4.0 programme.

 

[i] In 2021, over 1% of all claims submitted to HMRC were processed using WhisperClaims software. To date, its users have realised over £80m in tax benefits for their clients.

News

Accountancy firm unveils new offices and growth plans after pandemic rise in demand

AN ACCLAIMED accountancy firm made a statement by opening new offices and taking on staff ahead of further expansion this summer.

Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants has unveiled premises in Uxbridge Square, Menai Bridge, adding to its presence in St Asaph, Penmaenmawr and Ruthin.

Director Aled Roberts says they, like so many organisations, faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic but are emerging in a stronger position than ever before thanks to the loyalty of clients, their hard-working staff, and partnerships across North Wales and beyond.

The workforce looks set to grow to more than 30-strong before the end of the year and he is confident the foundations they have laid – notably in recruitment – will stand them in good stead going forward.

“As green shoots start to appear UK-wide we ourselves have seen a steady period of growth which culminated in us making the decision to look at our footprint and how we can better serve clients across the region,” said Aled.

“The most important aspect of this was finding the right people who fit in with our ethos and culture, and looking at long-term, sustainable opportunities.

“The Ruthin branch was opened during the pandemic and has already been a success, showing our commitment and confidence in the direction we are taking.

“And we are sure that will be replicated in Menai Bridge, where we have a team in place – including Welsh speaking staff – who can’t wait to get started.”

Fellow directors Jeremy Salisbury and Jason Matischok reinforced those comments; for Salisbury’s the client comes first, but they are also keen to see the next generation of chartered accountants begin their journey into the sector.

“It is vital this industry attracts young, talented people who can take chartered accountancy into a new era,” said Jason.

“We are at the forefront of that and ensure those joining us progress with our support, are encouraged to develop and made to feel part of this company’s growth, because they are a huge part of it and at the heart of all decisions.”

Jeremy added: “The pandemic has raised many challenges and probably accelerated digitalisation and some of the technological strides and innovations unveiled in lockdown when the only option was to operate and communicate virtually.

“We embraced that and new software systems which have allowed us to serve our clients nationally and locally even more efficiently. This included state-of-the-art video conferencing facilities which gives them the option of discussing matters with us online if they would prefer.

“However, many still prefer face to face support, so there was a big demand for us to look at new locations where we have seen a lot of success, which is why we opened an office in Ruthin and have plans to expand further later this year.

“We are happy to do that and believe with continued expansion and the talent we have here we are well placed to capitalise on our position as one of the most forward-thinking, community-driven and long-standing accountancy firms in Wales and the North West, as we have been for more than three decades.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

Charity & CSR, News

Warrington-based professional services company forms partnership with Cancer Research UK

A Warrington-based professional services group has announced a new partnership with one of the UK’s leading cancer support charities.

Optionis has chosen Cancer Research UK as its official charity partner for 2021 with a series of online fundraisers and events planned at its Centre Park Square headquarters, as well as its various offices around the UK. 

This latest collaboration follows previous partnerships, which saw the firm raise over £20,000 for children’s charities. The firm also promoted the importance of mental health awareness for all its employees in a joint initiative with the Samaritans in 2019/20.

Moving forward, Optionis will launch a new drive to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Research UK, which has been working to develop research and beat cancer for more than 100 years.

Sarah Edwards, Engagement and Communications Manager at Optionis, said: “When searching for a new official charity to support as a company, we knew it was important to give our backing to an organisation close to our employees’ hearts.

“Following discussions with all of our staff, Cancer Research UK was selected as our charity partner for 2021, and we can’t wait to begin raising funds for them. It will be slightly different to our previous campaigns, with some events taking place online, but we’re confident we can rise to the challenge and be a great supporter of the work they do.

“As a business we have a fantastic track record for supporting charities, both locally and nationally, and I’m proud to say the pandemic hasn’t stopped us with staff continuing to raise funds from their own homes over the past 12 months.”

Chris Doyle, Relationship Manager at Cancer Research UK said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone at the Optionis Group for their fantastic support and I am looking forward to seeing how the partnership develops over the coming year. Every pound they raise will help our brilliant scientists and their life-saving work.

“The truth is, COVID-19 has slowed us down and Cancer Research UK is predicting a staggering £300 million drop in income over the next three years which could put future medical breakthroughs at risk. But we will never stop. With over 40,000 people diagnosed with cancer each year in the North West, we are determined to continue to create better cancer treatments for tomorrow and, with the help of supporters like the Optionis Group, we believe that together we will still beat cancer.” 

Optionis Group encompasses seven brands including SJD Accountancy, ClearSky Accounting, Parasol, First Freelance, Nixon Williams, ClearSky Business and Brian Alfred.

AI, News

The Robot Exchange secures £500k MEIF backing to drive robotic automation

The Robot Exchange has secured a significant £500k investment from leading private equity investment firm, Foresight Group, through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (“MEIF”).

The Nottingham-based business supplies Robotic Process Automation (“RPA”) software and services to deliver efficiencies to businesses, helping them streamline and automate their processes via robotic infrastructure.

The funding will be used as growth capital, helping The Robot Exchange further innovate in the RPA sector – enabling greater investment in more technical solutions and increasing the volume of customers, markets and platforms that The Robot Exchange can serve.  The Company plans to create an additional five jobs in the near term.

The Robot Exchange focuses primarily on driving efficiencies in the UK enterprise market in a variety of market sectors such as financial services, the lettings industry and wealth management sector.

In light of the transaction, Andy Wallace, CEO of The Robot Exchange, comments: “We were looking for an investor that understood our need to continue to innovate while increasing our revenues. Our software as a service revenue structure around RPA is unusual, and I feel will be a key low-cost investment for many additional, and larger, clients across all vertical sectors.”

“Our Robotic Process Automation technology delivers rapid automation of manual and menial tasks, benefitting businesses and their customers, and we deliver a full return on investment for our clients within the first year, which is highly unusual for any tech project. The MEIF funding will no doubt help us expand this further as we grow our services and enhance our workforce.”

Ray Harris, Private Equity Director and Principal of MEIF at Foresight Group, added: “We’re very pleased to be backing The Robot Exchange as it continues to develop its software. A combination of a great product and management team within a sector that should see significant growth makes for a compelling investment proposition.”

Sajeeda Rose, Chief Executive at D2N2 LEP said: “I’m delighted to see the Midlands Engine Investment Fund supporting innovative and ambitious businesses within our region. With the increasing importance of automation, it’s great to see Robot Exchange getting the support it needs to grow and help drive our region’s economic growth. ”

The Robot Exchange appointed a deal team from Smith Cooper Corporate Finance, led by Dan Bowtell, to obtain growth funding and negotiate the transaction through to completion.

Dan Bowtell, Corporate Finance Partner at Smith Cooper, adds: “The funding attained from Foresight Group and MEIF will play a vital role in helping Andy and his team realise their growth ambitions, helping to digitise the way many businesses operate, boosting efficiency and streamlining operations.”

Legal advice was provided by Lipman Karas LLP.

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.