Member Article

PKF Cooper Parry scoops Most Innovate Practice award

West Midlands-based PKF Cooper Parry, which is making headlines for its unique company culture and working environment, has scooped the Most Innovative Practice of the Year - Mid-tier firm award at The British Accountancy Awards 2016.

Now acknowledged as the fastest growing accountancy firm in the UK, the firm, beat off the challenge from other national names to win this new award, which was announced at a high-profile ceremony held at The Brewery in London.

The Most Innovative Practice of the Year award was introduced to recognise the accountancy practice adopting the most unique and distinctive approach to its organisational structure and its approach to client service provision.

A panel of 20 judges representing the very best of the profession were tasked with assessing the firm’s services against three key criteria - culture, technology and measurable success impact – across a three-stage process.

The judges were also on the look-out for the use of innovative techniques, resources or technologies used to acquire and retain clients and develop professionalism within the firm.

The judges described PKF Cooper Parry’s HQ as a ‘funky workspace, designed to empower people’ and said the firm is ‘always thinking of ways to be new and unlike anyone else’.

They also commended the firm on showing how to achieve behavioural change across the business.

PKF Cooper Parry prides itself on its unique culture and over the past few years has created an environment where people can have fun doing their best work. Its East Midlands headquarters has been designed to reflect the creativity and innovation of the whole business.

The firm has created a cool, fun workspace which is an extension of its values and entrepreneurial culture. There are five feature rooms, each with a different setting and atmosphere. The Treehouse is filled with forest greenery, complete with rope swing and The Shack has a relaxed surf-club feel. Team members can also go to the Dream Room to discuss personal and career aspirations.

In the break-out areas there are activities ranging from table tennis, pin ball and space invaders machines to a grand piano.

Other innovations include flexible and home working, 727 email curfew, unlimited fully paid holiday and regular social events.

Speaking of winning this new award, Ade Cheatham, CEO of PKF Cooper Parry, said:

“We’re a great example of how a business can break the mould by putting people at its core and we’re thrilled to have been recognised by our peers for our commitment to making a change.

“Businesses should be prepared to create an enjoyable workplace where people are empowered to truly make a difference.

“We were up against some stiff competition, but have worked hard to create a culture and philosophy based around providing fulfilling employment for people and creating an environment that people are proud to be part of,” added Ade

Regarded as one of the industry’s most prestigious accolades, The British Accountancy Awards, are now in their sixth year and represent small local firms to the larger regional, national and global players.

PKF Cooper Parry recently reported its strongest financial year on record. It is the only accountancy firm to make the 2016 Sunday Times List of 100 Best Companies to work for.

The firm is one of the largest independent firms of business advisers in the Midlands and acts for more locally owned private businesses in the Midlands with a turnover in excess of £5m than any other accounting, tax and advisory firm.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Donna Hill .