Member Article

Innovative approach to accountancy adds up for new hires at Durham firm

Leading Durham-based accountancy firm, Harlands Accountants LLP, is celebrating a significant investment in its growth, following the appointment of seven new staff members alongside the exciting launch of new, innovative services.

The investment comes off the back of a strong trading period, which has seen their modern approach to the traditional accountancy industry prove a success with customers. In addition to cutting-edge technology and their emphasis on advisory services, the company has nurtured a growing reputation in the sector for their approach to their team, including flexible working, regular team events and the opportunity to be involved in working groups, which are tasked with implementing the firm’s expansion plans.

The new hires include Zaheer Shabeer, Head of Outsourced Finance Services, experienced Tax Advisors, John Kavanagh and Georgina Weedon, who join the team alongside Payroll Advisor, Denise Driver, Tax Assistant, Laura Tweddle, Outsourced Finance Services Assistant, Nathan Gunn and Client Manager, Rebecca Pearce.

Speaking about the expansion, Operations Director, David Cudlip, said: “I’m delighted to welcome the new recruits to the Harlands team. The next exciting phase of expansion is now underway as we continue to build and deliver unique advisory services. Our mission is to constantly evolve the role and perception of an accountant, and that starts with recruiting people who are as passionate about delivering this change as we are.

“Alongside accountancy and tax, advising businesses has always been at heart of what we do. Building authenticity and a solid reputation for delivery across our advisory services is incredibly important to us. One way we achieve this is by measuring Gross Value Added (GVA) growth within our customer base and benchmark that growth against UK and regional statistics.”

“The increases in GVA for our customer base, which measures the investment in people, assets, acquisitions and of course, profit, across our entire customer base in 2018 is more than triple the UK average and that is something we are all incredibly proud of.”

All seven appointments bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the diverse range of services Harlands offers to clients, including Outsourced Finance Support, Tax Advisory and Business Advisory.

Speaking about his appointment, Tax Advisor, John Kavanagh said: “Having spent a lot of my career working for large multinationals, the approach Harlands takes to working with their clients and staff feels dynamic and refreshing.

“I’m excited to be part of such an ambitious company and fully embrace the forward-thinking approach they take to what is still thought of as a very traditional professional service.”

Having worked with clients that range from sole traders to investment banks, Zaheer Shabeer’s new role will see him lead a team tasked with utilising technology to ensure Harlands customers have up-to-date financial information, an important component in advising any business. Speaking about his new role, Zaheer, said: “I am delighted to join the innovative team working at Harlands. Their focus on shaping the perception of what an accountancy firm should be is what first attracted me to the role.

“Using the latest technology to improve processes whilst focusing on providing the most relevant advice to clients to improve profitability is an approach that I feel is particularly fitting for the current climate, in which businesses require an efficient and effortless service from their financial partners.”

With over a decade of experience in Accountancy, Tax and Financial Services, Georgina Weedon brings with her a passion for advising businesses. She said: “Harlands is not just an accountancy firm, they are dedicated business advisors, with a passion for driving growth for their clients. I am thrilled to be a part of the team.”

Alongside the new recruits, the expansion includes the introduction of several new services, including Cashflow Management & Credit Control and an innovative Virtual Finance Manager, allowing SMEs and larger businesses alike to enjoy the benefits of a full-time financial controller without tying up additional desk space.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Harlands Accountants .