HAINES WATTS - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Audit & Accounts Assistant
- in 2021 As Audit and Accounts Assistant
Alex joined Haines Watts in 2021 as Audit and Accounts Assistant, and is currently studying towards his ACCA qualification.
Alex is responsible for the preparation of accounts and corporate tax returns for a vast range of SME's. Alex is also an audit assistant, and has acted on a variety of audit assignments.
Andrew originally trained in the Midlands, but since moving to Bristol nearly 20 years ago he has been focused on advising businesses and charities in Bristol and the wider South West region. In that time Andrew has worked with a diverse range of clients including listed businesses, owner managed SMEs as well as national, regional and local charities. Andrew specialises in advising growing businesses, those with overseas trade and those with complex issues.
Having worked in a ‘Top 10' firm and more recently a large regional practice, Andrew joined Haines Watts to make a difference to clients by applying his skill and knowledge of working with and advising owner managed SMEs and not-for-profit entities. Having spent some time in industry as well as in practice, Andrew is focused on delivering commercial, pragmatic and practical solutions to the issues facing his clients.
A ‘happy auditor', Andrew loves spending time with his clients, and as well as delivering compliance services, he enjoys advising on strategy, the impact of business decisions and the implementation of effective systems and processes.
Andrew has worked with clients in many sectors and has particular specialist sector knowledge in technology and media, retail and hospitality, legal and insurance and manufacturing, as well as the not-for-profit sector.
Andrew provides clear and pragmatic advice, which helps his clients to manage their VAT affairs in an efficient and HMRC compliant way, whilst also delivering significant VAT savings.
He has substantial experience in supporting clients across a huge range of industries, in both the private and public sector. Andrew has built up a good working relationship with HMRC, allowing him to successfully liaise and negotiate on his clients' behalf to achieve the best outcomes.
Job Titles:
- Regional Marketing Manager
After 12 years working in project management and marketing within the pharmaceutical sector, Anna joined Haines Watts in September 2018.
Anna is responsible for all marketing activities throughout the South West region.
Job Titles:
- Managing Director - Exeter
Ben has been a principal in the firm since 1994 and is the Managing Director of the Exeter Office.
Ben is also responsible for a diverse portfolio of clients, most of whom are the owner managers of their businesses and have a turnover of between £1M and £30M.
It is Ben's firm belief that by being pro-active in his approach to advising clients, they can gain competitive advantage to develop and strengthen their businesses. He also acts as a non-executive director for charitable and not for profit organisations.
Outside of work, Ben has an interest in military history and enjoys walking the battlefields of Europe and beyond.
Do you think it's important to have a diverse range of thought on the board? How do you approach challenging each other when needed?
It's essential. It gives us a wider perspective and the ability to make more informed decisions. We also want to be inclusive and representative of the clients we work with.
We've all come from a variety of backgrounds and worked our way up through the profession, working for other accountancy firms before settling at Haines Watts. We're keen to encourage under-represented groups in to the profession, which can be a challenge. We keep working at it because otherwise we know we'll be missing out on fantastic new talent and important voices.
As far as internal challenges go, we have a culture of openness. As a network we can't have 40 different ideas running in parallel, but we can discuss best practice with informed discussion. The benefits of the network are many, so ensuring that we take everyone along with us in the decision making process is crucial.
Ben is the Managing Partner at the Haines Watts Reading office. He is also our Regional Lead for the Thames Valley region.
Ben has over 28 years' experience in public practice, with 24 years' working in audit and tax. His strong business acumen provides comfort to the needs of Directors from SMEs, large businesses, UK subsidiaries, multi-national groups and high-net-worth individuals.
His specialties include business advisory; audit; management reporting; due diligence; and corporate and personal tax. He has particular expertise in working alongside business owners that are going through change, whether it be organic growth, acquisitions, or business disposals.
Ben enjoys watching sport (virtually any sport), walking, cycling, and talking shop, he is always available for a quick chat, on practically any topic.
Bianca is Director with over 20 years of experience focusing on audit and business advisory, from small SME clients through to UK subsidiaries and large, international corporate clients requiring group reporting and consolidations. Her specialisms include property, retail, manufacturing and construction clients.
Having gained experience at a Big 5 firm and working in industry, Bianca has extensive finance experience. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Bianca has a dance background and loves to watch Strictly Come Dancing. An interesting fact about Bianca is that if she wasn't an accountant, she would have become a maths teacher as she has always loved working with numbers.
Charlotte qualified as a member of the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) in 2018. She has 7 years' experience of working in professional accountancy practices.
Charlotte joined Haines Watts accounts department in February 2019. Her main areas of responsibility relate to the preparation of annual accounts and tax for small and medium sized owner-managed companies, partnerships and sole trades.
In her spare time Charlotte enjoys seeing friends and family.
Charlotte joined Haines Watts Swindon in 1998 from ‘A' levels, she gained her AAT qualification in 2001 and continued to gain her ACCA qualification in 2004. Charlotte works with both corporate (audit and non-audit) and non corporate clients.
Chris is responsible for our corporate finance services. His role involves advising clients on acquisitions and disposals, procuring and structuring debt, equity and grant funding, and developing business plans and financial projections.
With his wide-ranging experience, he is well-placed to advise business owners on the issues they face. He has worked in many different sectors but has particular expertise in the agricultural, legal, manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries.
Chris has a wealth of experience dealing with self-assessment tax returns for sole traders, partnerships, landlords, ministers of religion, non-resident individuals, trusts, estates and other individuals in need of personal tax assistance.
Not only does Chris deal with the self-assessment side of tax, but also Capital Gains Tax Returns for disposal of residential property, benefits in kind and PAYE Settlement Agreements and Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings returns. Chris is always approachable and happy to help with the most technical of questions.
Job Titles:
- Head of Accounts - Senior Associate
Claire returned to Haines Watts in 2020 after 13 years away. She qualified in 2007 and is a member of both the ACCA and ICAEW.
In her time away, Claire has gained extensive experience within Practice at a Senior level, and has a detailed knowledge of both Accounts and Tax.
In her spare time, Claire loves spending time with her family exploring the countryside where they live. She is also a massive rugby fan, supporting the Exeter Chiefs either at Sandy Park or at home by shouting at the TV!!
Job Titles:
- Managing Partner
- Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants
Clive is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and started in the profession in 1989. He qualified with a local Cardiff independent firm, before moving to Grant Thornton to gain experience of larger entities. After four years there, he took the opportunity of becoming a partner within the Haines Watts network, establishing an office in West Wales initially before centralizing in Cardiff. The experience gained across that time has been exclusively with owner managed businesses, and that has given him a keen insight into that market sector dealing with all aspects from accounts preparation to directing audits and both personal and corporate tax compliance and planning.
Experienced auditor and accountant within the SME sector, In depth knowledge of current regulatory and reporting requirements.
Conor has worked in all areas of the OMB sector and uses his experience and knowledge to provide his clients with both commercial and practical advice, resulting in the forging of longstanding business relationships.
Conor will be responsible for delivering the audit on time and to the highest standard.
Job Titles:
- Audit Partner
- Senior Audit Director With the Remit of Leading the Firm
Craig Hunter joined the firm in April 2017 as Senior Audit Director with the remit of leading the firm's audit service across both the Edinburgh and Kirkcaldy offices.
Craig will be primarily based in Kirkcaldy and responsible for managing the day to day operations of that office, seeking to develop and expand the existing services offered. Craig has over 20 years experience in the profession, having worked in both industry and public practice, and joins the firm having previously held a senior management position with BDO in their assurance and advisory department.
Craig has significant experience of working with owner managed businesses across a wide range of sectors/ industries and prides himself on delivering exceptional client service by understanding his client's business and their needs.
Craig also possesses strong technical skills and, combined with his significant audit experience, is considered a positive addition to the Haines Watts management team in Edinburgh/ Kirkcaldy.
In his spare time, Craig is a keen follower of football although has long since hung up his playing boots. He now leaves that to his 8 year old son who, even at such a young age, is already running rings around his dad.
Dan Hart is a tax manager based in both the Aylesbury and Berkhamsted offices here at Haines Watts. Having joined back in 2021 as ACA qualified, he continues to help us provide our tailored-to-you services as a valuable member of the tax team.
With more than nine years of experience with personal tax returns and accounts, Dan has a range of responsibilities within the firm and manages a portfolio of personal tax and small to medium sized businesses. Dan works closely with our clients to provide guidance and advisory work in relation to inheritance tax, capital gains tax, trusts and estates.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time with his family and friends, including long walks with his family's dogs, Buddy & Lola. Dan also likes experimenting with his 3D printer, even creating members of the team 3D printed fidget puzzles!
Darren's credibility and expertise are built on a solid foundation of experience and dedication. He has worked closely with numerous businesses, helping them navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their goals. Darren's hands-on approach ensures that he is not just an advisor but a true partner in your business journey.
David is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and has worked exclusively in professional accountancy practices in and around Exeter for over 25 years. He has an extensive knowledge of local business issues.
He is particularly experienced in bringing financial direction to the client's board room. To succeed in business financial strategy is paramount and yet many smaller businesses do not have the resources to recruit internal finance directors.
David has been a business owner since 2005 and an equity partner at Haines Watts since 2013 specialising in providing strategic business and taxation services to owner-managed businesses.
David spends his time working between the Crediton and Exeter offices.
Outside of work he is a voluntary governor at his children's school and a director of Crediton Rugby Football Club.
David remains hopeful of becoming a professional surfer one day but after 40 years of practicing without getting any better this might not happen.
David entered accountancy as a college-leaver and became a qualified Accountant just a few years later. After joining Haines Watts in 2011, he has gone on to help a diverse range of clients - from taxi drivers to multi million pound turnover businesses. David offers full compliance services, as well as tax planning and other day-to-day finance assistance.
Dean set about his accountancy journey back in 2008 working his first job at a small firm of accountants in Harrow, West London. In 2016 he made the decision to relocate to the west country, joining Sully Partnership and eventually merging to become a part of the Haines Watts team. Dean's 14 years experience has given him the opportunity to gain masses of knowledge in Audit, Accounts and Taxes, particularly for SME's and owner managed businesses. Dean focuses on managing a portfolio of clients where he enjoys building strong business relationships alongside delivering advice and ensuring that all compliance matters are met.
Dean enjoys spending his spare time making memories with his young family, he also enjoys watching a wide range of sports but particularly Football and Formula 1.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Assistant
- Manager
- in 2014 As an Accounts Assistant
Deividas joined Haines Watts in 2014 as an accounts assistant at the Great Yarmouth office and qualified as a Certified Accountant in 2020.
He works with a variety of business from sole traders to Limited Companies assisting with the preparation of accounts and tax returns.
In addition, Deividas helps clients with preparing VAT returns and provides support regarding the use of cloud accounting software.
Job Titles:
- Directors
- Group Managing Partner
- Joint Group Managing Partner
From audit trainee to Group Managing Partner, hear how Donna's career has carved the future for Haines Watts.
Why have you chosen Haines Watts for your career - and why does it still matter?
We all had different reasons for joining the accountancy profession and came from different backgrounds. We've tried our hands working for large accountancy practices and for small boutique firms. While our experiences are extremely varied, our reasons for joining Haines Watts are very similar. It's our desire to work with real businesses and make a meaningful impact. Relationships with our clients are key. The opportunity to work with entrepreneurial businesses as trusted advisors and see those businesses flourish is what matters most to us.
Offering pragmatic advice to business owners, Donna has helped many to achieve their goals and overcome their business challenges. With a particular interest in entrepreneurial business owners with a growth mindset, she has a strong focus on getting to know the people behind the business and their personal and business ambitions.
Donna is regional managing partner and a board member at Haines Watts, where she represents people and culture at a national level.
Donna joined the team as a trainee accountant back in 2008. Donna assists with accounts preparation and bookkeeping and liaising with clients on a variety of tasks.
I joined Haines Watts in 2008 as part of the Great Yarmouth office as an Administrator on a part time basis.
After leaving KPMG Duncan was a partner in Reynolds, a predecessor firm of Haines Watts in Exeter. He specialises in expert witness engagements and has many years of experience in civil and criminal forensic accountancy; he has given evidence in Court on numerous occasions. Duncan's areas of expertise include divorce finance, environmental and fishery claims, commercial disputes, and quantum in personal injury and clinical negligence claims. He is an accredited and experienced commercial mediator. Duncan is also a highly regarded lecturer for MBL Seminars and a principal tutor with the Academy of Experts in the UK, Hong Kong and Singapore. When not at work he is a keen military historian and battlefield guide.
Mostly specialising in self-assessment tax for sole traders, Eliza has a wealth of experience working with landlords, ministers of religion, partnerships, trusts and other individuals in need of personal tax assistance.
Not only does Eliza deal with the self-assessment side of tax, but also P11d's, PSA and ERS Returns. Alongside the odd SDLT work and remuneration planning, Eliza is always approachable and happy to help with the most technical of questions.
Emma has been in practice for over 12 years, joining Haines Watts in 2017.
She primarily focuses on audit engagements and managing all non-charity assignments of the practice. Emma has vast experience in managing complex audit assignments across a wide range of sectors. In addition, Emma also specialises in R&D tax claims.
She has a portfolio of non-audit clients where she looks to build strong relationships in order to identify opportunities for growth and to provide pro-active advice.
Job Titles:
- Marketing Communications & PR Assistant Manager
Since joining as a graduate, hear how Evie's role has grown and evolved along her career journey.
Fahim Maqsood is a portfolio manager based in the Aylesbury and Berkhamsted offices of Haines Watts. He is a Certified Chartered Accountant, directly reporting to the partners.
With more than 7 years of experience with personal tax returns and accounts, Fahim is responsible for managing several of our large corporate clients. He is involved in all aspects of running small, medium, and large businesses, including the preparation of statutory accounts, corporation tax returns, due diligence projects and tax guidance. Fahim also looks after the company job planner; he is responsible for allocating the jobs to the staff across two offices.
In his free time, Fahim enjoys an array of sports such as badminton and volleyball - even playing for a local club. Fahim also likes walking, hiking, and socialising.
Gary enjoys advising both corporates and owner managers on growing the business, corporate strategy, tax advice, financing and audit and accounts. He also acts for many UK subsidiaries of foreign owned entities, often working in tandem with existing accountants advising them on their own tax planning.
Gary has been working in the professional services environment for over twenty years. His experience includes several secondments into industry, giving him an insight into how business works from the client perspective.
Gary is married with two boys and lives in St Albans. He keeps fit at the local gym and he is a keen supporter of Manchester United.
Geoff has worked in Bristol for many years and has extensive experience in advising both owner managed businesses and not-for-profit organizations. He specializes in delivering excellent service to his clients and is proactive in seeking ways to provide help and advice.
Geoff's role is to help maintain the quality of service delivered by the Bristol office and build relationships in the Bristol business community.
Glenn joined the accounts team as an intern whilst studying business finance at university. After graduating, he joined us in a permanent role and worked towards qualifying as a chartered accountant.
Glenn has an eye for detail and a hands-on approach, helping to guide and coordinate the accounts team, whilst maintaining a high standard of work.
In his spare time, Glenn enjoys 5-a-side football and going to the gym.
Having undertaken both of our talent development programmes, hear how Graeme has been continuously progressing since he joined Haines Watts.
Graeme joined Haines Watts in July 2011 after nearly 10 years working with a Chartered Accountancy firm in London's Piccadilly. Prior to his move to London in late 2001, Graeme had worked for two other CA practices in Edinburgh. A qualified Chartered Tax Advisor and member of the Association of Taxation Technicians, Graeme has 15 years 'hands on' tax experience. His areas of expertise include Capital Allowances, OMBs (corporate and non-corporate), Non-UK Residents / Domicile, Investment and Commercial Property.
Graeme has an intuitive understanding of tax planning and takes great satisfaction by helping his clients keep their tax bills as low as possible. His talent lies in identifying existing and new tax-saving opportunities. Graeme's wealth of knowledge and proficiency ensures he has a host of tax efficient solutions that he tailors to the specific needs of his clients.
Grant worked at a local firm of CA after leaving school. He qualified in 2015 and joined Haines Watts in 2017 as part of the team in Great Yarmouth. Grant works with a wide range of businesses for Great Yarmouth, Diss and Norwich clients who are based in and around Norfolk and Suffolk and is a dedicated supporter of local networking groups.
Grant has great experience in introducing clients to cloud accounting software and ensuring they understand the processes and have the training they need along with providing help and support with regard to accounts, tax and payroll and general business advice to his portfolio of clients.
Steve's journey in the world of finance began with his training at a medium-sized firm in Manchester. However, his desire to become more involved in clients' businesses led him to join Haines Watts in 1994. Since then, Steve has been committed to building strong relationships with owner-managed businesses and becoming an integral part of their success stories.
As the Senior Partner, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. He has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by owner-managed businesses and is well-versed in all aspects of financial planning. Whether it's optimising cash flow, strategising for growth, or navigating complex tax regulations, Steve is the go-to advisor who can guide you every step of the way.
Darren's journey at Haines Watts began in 1999 when he joined our esteemed team. Prior to that, he gained valuable experience working for independent firms, which allowed him to acquire a deep understanding of the owner-managed business sector. Over the years, Darren has developed an extensive knowledge base across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, service, and construction.
What sets Darren apart is his unwavering commitment to your business's success. He understands that each industry and business is unique, and he tailors his approach to meet your specific needs. With his wealth of knowledge and expertise, Darren is well-equipped to guide you through the complexities of owner-managed business challenges.
Haines Watts Bedford has been providing businesses in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire with high quality advice and support for over 35 years - we pride ourselves in supporting owner managed businesses by combining national strength with our local expertise. As business owners ourselves we understand the challenges that you face. Having people on hand to talk to so that you receive the support and guidance you need without confusing technical language is something we feel is important.
After graduating and spending ten years as a computer programmer Helen moved into teaching and studied a maths degree. Wanting a change of career, Helen then worked in school payroll for Taunton School and WESC Foundation. After gaining high knowledge and lots of experience in this field Helen decided that a new challenge was called for and joined Haines Watts as Payroll Supervisor.
In her spare time Helen enjoys swimming, walking, cooking and spending time with her family and numerous pets.
Job Titles:
- Head of Tax - Senior Associate
Helen is our Senior Associate Head of Tax and joined in June 2019. Helen provides advice to our broad client base on various different tax issues including corporation tax, personal tax, trust tax, capital gains tax, employment taxes, tax residency issues, inheritance tax and others on an as-needs basis. Helen believes strongly in being a support to our clients whether in terms of tax planning or ensuring timely compliance.
In her spare time, Helen enjoys country walking, gardening, holidays and being with good people.
Job Titles:
- City AM
- Managing Director of City AM Interviews Martin Gurney, Partner from Haines Wa.
Ian joined Haines Watts in August 2019 as Tax Director after working for another Edinburgh based firm of Chartered Accountants for the past eleven years. Originally from Lancashire, he first began his tax career in the early 1990s, working for HMRC, and after spending eight years there, decided to make the move and began working in practice. In 2008, Ian (and his family) made another move when they relocated to Scotland.
With over 25 years' experience in tax, Ian has acted on behalf of a wide range of clients - from football managers to vets, authors to oil executives, and everything in between. Ian specialises in residence matters, HMRC enquiries, tax planning and all aspects of the Enterprise Investment Scheme.
Ian's aim is to give his clients the most tax efficient solution for their tax affairs, in a way that is understandable and clear, by using his wealth of experience and knowledge.
When not at work, Ian enjoys spending time with his wife and three sons. He's also a keen mountain biker, and likes to spend time out on the bike trails around the area.
Job Titles:
- Head of Audit - Senior Associate
Jade trained and qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Haines Watts and in 2011 was promoted to Accounts and Audit manager.
In 2018 Jade was the youngest employee at Haines Watts to be eligible to sign audit reports, a responsibility only a select few have authority to carry out.
As well as extensive audit experience, Jade deals with many of the technical queries that arise, advising clients on correct accounting treatment and complex financial reporting issues.
Jade is also responsible for preparing the accounts and tax for a portfolio of small and medium sized owner-managed companies, partnerships, sole trades, charities and other not for profit organisations.
In Jade's spare time she enjoys days out with her young family.
Jason has been with the Exeter Office since 1999 after 8 years in various roles at HM Revenue and Customs. He is a member of the Association of Taxation Technicians. Jason's main areas of work centre around the preparation of self assessment tax returns, capital gains tax computations, corporation tax returns, taxation of deceased estates, dealing with HMRC enquiries, and any general taxation and National Insurance matters.
Jason is a musician in his spare time and enjoys playing in an English folk dance band as well as having a keen interest in travelling to new and exciting places when at all possible!
Jay joined the Haines Watts team in 2018 as Associate Tax Director covering the High Wycombe areas. Jay has extensive experience of corporate and international tax matters as well as the issues pertaining to shareholder tax. He is well versed in advising businesses from the start-up phase through to their international expansion, though he particularly enjoys helping owner managed business clients to maximise their opportunities and overcome the many challenges they face. Jay provides advice across a range of taxes including corporate, income and international taxes. He has significant experience of tax structures and planning on corporate transactions. He assists clients throughout the Thames Valley and supports ambitious business owners across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.
Jay is married with two boys, he is also a school governor and he plays an active part in the development of a community charity in a professional capacity. He enjoys cricket, tennis and travel his other hobbies include study of the environment, psychology and philosophy.
Jennifer's wealth of knowledge has allowed her to build strong relationships with clients across a variety of industries. Her clients benefit from a tailored approach with pro-active strategic advice, helping them acheive their business goals. In addition to her own portfolio, Jennifer also manages our wider Humber region team across Grimsby, Hull, Doncaster and Scunthorpe.
Job Titles:
- Tax Incentives and Reliefs Executive
Having joined Haines Watts in the first cohort of our national trainee programme, hear how Jess's career is shaping up so far.
Having studied economics, Jess joined the profession with no prior experience in tax. Hear how she has progressed to Associate Partner since then.
Job Titles:
- Business Services Manager
Jo is an AAT Qualified Accountant with over 25 years' experience, specialising in cloud-based accounting software, for bookkeeping, VAT Returns and payroll.
Leading our Business Services department, Jo manages an enthusiastic and dedicated team of cloud accounting specialists, who are all highly organised and passionate about ensuring our services exceed the very high standards we set ourselves and that our clients expect of us. Jo is keen to encourage clients to streamline their accounting processes and she is always on hand to help with queries and training.
Jo is married with two sons and a beautiful golden retriever, she enjoys gardening, walking and being in the countryside.
John wanted to work for a business who's values and vision aligned with his own, find out how the move from retail to accountancy has gone so far.
Job Titles:
- Tax Incentives and Reliefs Assistant Manager
Jordan Wood Tax Incentives and Reliefs Assistant Manager Having joined straight from school as an Apprentice, hear how his career has progressed since then. Hear Jordan's story
In addition to offering business and strategic advice to his diverse client base, Kapil's recent focus and experience has also included working with clients in the creative, manufacturing, technology and property sectors. Many of Kapil's clients are owner managed businesses and he has over twenty years' experience of advising and supporting his clients, in a cost effective manner, with their general compliance and other business needs which have ranged from audit services to advising on tax efficiencies. Supported by his empathic approach and understanding on how business works from the client's perspective, his addition to our team is a big plus.
Kapil enjoys a variety of activities such as hiking, travelling, golf and also a spot of deep sea fishing.
Katherine is a Director based in our Berkhamsted office. As a Director, Chartered Accountant and Tax Advisor, Katherine's main role is to ensure our tax teamwork in partnership with the other areas of our business to provide focused tax advice to clients.
Katherine has over 25 years of experience in advising individuals and owner-managed businesses. Katherine provides specialist tax planning advice in relation to Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax and the taxation of Trust. Katherine works with her clients to provide a service tailored to their requirements.
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys spending time with her family. Katherine is also a Governor at a local primary school which her three sons previously attended.
Kathleen Eglinton is the Payroll Manager based in our Aylesbury office.
Kathleen oversees the payroll department to ensure the efficient running of over 300 monthly payrolls, which includes the setting up of payrolls, dealing with client and HMRC queries and all pension submissions. Kathleen constantly keeps her team up to date with payroll legalisation and ongoing training.
Kathleen previously worked at Payroll Bureau for 15 years; she has a wealth of payroll knowledge and loves sharing this knowledge with her colleagues.
The most important thing for Kathleen is her family and loves spending days out with her son, nieces, and nephews. She enjoys cooking, going to the theatre and indulging in afternoon tea with her friends. Kathleen's motto in life is "don't regret what you have, regret what you haven't".
Kelly qualified and trained as a Chartered Accountant in 2018 before specialising in Tax and becoming a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation in 2022, which keeps her abreast of the latest tax developments. Kelly provides advisory on a broad range of tax issues, across the owner managed business sector mainly in relation to capital tax matters, corporation tax, personal tax and dealing with HMRC amongst other general taxation matters.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Assistant
- Manager
Having recently celebrated her 10th year at Haines Watts, hear how her journey with Haines Watts has development over that time.
Lucy explains how she joined Haines Watts as a school leaver and worked her way up to manage a team.
Maddie joined Haines Watts in February 2020 after completing a level 2 business administration apprenticeship at a local secondary school. Maddie was responsible for assisting with the management of the office and Partner support whilst completing her level 3 apprenticeship.
Maddie has now transferred into the Tax team to progress her career.
Working with people who have grown their businesses from the ground up, no two days are the same in Maria's role, find out more about her journey.
Maria joined Haines Watts in November 2022, having gained over 25 years experience in Personal Tax working with a number of well known firms mostly in the East Anglian region.
I enjoy using my experience to enable me to complete Tax Returns for sole traders, subcontractors under CIS, partnerships, those with income from property, Seafarers, employees etc basically anyone who is required to complete a Tax Return! I will always look for the most tax efficient ways to reduce clients tax liabilities where possible and to lessen the burden of the complex tax system for my clients.
Having worked in both practice and industry for a number of years, Mark is in the fortunate position of having sat on both sides of the fence. He enjoys getting into the detail of any problem, challenging the data and presumptions before reaching a conclusion.
Mark specialises in the property sector, international groups, logistics and supply chain services, cash flow management and financing.
"When I'm not working I enjoy fishing, playing golf and generally trying to avoid the delights of the British weather!"
Mark was educated at Vale of Ancholme School, Brigg' John Leggott College, Scunthorpe and the University of Liverpool. He joined Haines Watts in 1999 and qualified through the firm's structured training programme. Mark has developed close working relationships with his varied portfolio of owner managed businesses, providing help and assistance on all business, accounting and taxation issues.
Job Titles:
- Tax Partner
- Tax Partner - Swindon
Martin has been in practice for over 20 years, almost all of which has been spent working in 2 of the country's top 20 accountancy practices.
He has also spent time working in tax in industry for a subsidiary of GEC plc. He joined HW as a Partner in 2004 and oversees all taxation planning and compliance matters.
A significant proportion of Martin's time is spent with clients looking at tax planning opportunities across the full spectrum of UK taxes.
Martin is a qualified accountant with more than 15 years' experience in practice, dealing with owner managed businesses and UK subsidiaries of global corporations.
He manages an extensive portfolio of clients covering a broad range of sectors, including technology, property, professional services, engineering and distribution and food and drink.
He is currently responsible for business compliance in the Reading office and heads up a large team, overseeing the entire audit process. Martin and his team also provide year-end financial statements and management accounts, as well as advising on the tax affairs of the companies and the directors.
"My primary focus is on building strong relationships with clients and ensuring they receive the appropriate strategic advice whilst dealing efficiently with the compliance aspects. I like to understand the long term aims of my clients, this way I can help structure the business appropriately for the future."
If I wasn't doing this I'd be: Trying to amuse my two young sons
Job Titles:
- Joint Group Managing Partner
Matt's career has focused on the Bristol business community for the last 30 years. After working for a large local practice and a ‘top 10' firm, Matt joined Haines Watts to utilise his skills in advising SME's in all aspects of business, accounting and tax. Matt has specialist knowledge in a number of business sectors, including professional practices in relation to which he used to sit on the ICAEW's Solicitors' Group Committee.
Matt has overall responsibility for the Bristol and Portishead offices of Haines Watts, in addition to acting as the Regional Lead Partner for the South West.
Job Titles:
- Regional Managing Director
Matt has been helping people manage their tax affairs for nearly 20 years. After spending over a decade at HM Revenue and Customs, Matt joined Haines Watts in 2014 to utilise his extensive tax knowledge and his ability to explain detailed tax rules in a language that anyone can understand. Matt regularly works with small business owners, as well as landlords and high net world individuals. In his spare time, Matt enjoys watching Bristol City (where he has a season ticket) and enjoying as much time with his young son as possible!
Job Titles:
- in 2014 As a Receptionist
- PA to the Directors
Maya joined Haines Watts in 2014 as a receptionist and has since progressed to become a Personal Assistant to the Directors. She also works closely with the whole team and covers various administrative tasks for the office.
Outside of the office, she is a keen swimmer and competes at a National level in the pool as well as swimming on the Suffolk team. She also goes open water swimming to explore lakes and the coastline all year round.
After having worked both in practice and in-house, find out how Michael has found his home at Haines Watts.
Michael joined Haines Watts in 2008 and quickly gained AAT and ACCA qualification.
As Tax Compliance Manager, Michael is responsible for overseeing all personal tax and corporate tax returns whilst assisting with tax planning and the provision of proactive advice on a wide range of tax matters, ensuring clients are structured in the most efficient way.
Michael also manages the payroll and VAT departments whilst supporting the accounts department with corporate and non-corporate clients preparing management accounts.
Job Titles:
- Managing Partner - Swindon
Mike joined the Haines Watts Group in Swindon in April 1995 becoming a partner six months later and managing partner in April 1996.
He commenced his career with Spicer and Peglar in the 1980's moving to a local firm in Bristol to gain a broader spectrum of knowledge then to Kidsons Impey where he qualified and became a senior manager.
His accounting career has been based around the provision of quality service and advice to private limited companies, UK subsidiaries, partnerships and sole traders covering the full general practice spectrum.
His role is to maintain and extend the relationship with the client and recognise planning opportunities and the need for specialist advice as and when required whilst driving the strategic direction and growth of the Wiltshire practices in Swindon and Trowbridge.
He is also a co-founder and shareholder/director of the Haines Watts Bristol practice.
I have always been a 'people person' and have found that clients want a combination of technical expertise, sound advice and personal commitment to their success. This creates the foundation for long term relationships that are fulfilling for us all
Monnique joined Haines Watts in 2024 as an Audit Senior. She is a seasoned auditing professional with over eight years experience in the field.
With a primary focus on auditing, Monnique has a keen eye for detail and a commitment to ensuring financial accuracy and regulatory compliance. Her extensive knowledge extends beyond auditing to encompass compilation engagements and taxation, providing clients with comprehensive financial solutions and strategic guidance
Nicole joined Haines Watts through a merger. Hear why she thinks this is the best thing that could have happened in her career.
Nolan joined the team in 2010, becoming the Humber team's dedicated tax specialist. His experience of working across varied industries, such as food processing and engineering, allow him to quickly adapt to different business needs. Nolan helps clients with compliance and gives expert advice on the likes of Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax and IR35.
Olivia has over several years experience working as a HR Generalist within various different industries. She supports the East and East Midland's offices with their day to day HR activities across the employee lifecycle!
Paige has been in accounting for over 12 years and joined Haines Watts in 2022. With a growing portfolio of SME's across a broad range of sectors in Swindon and South Gloucestershire, Paige is responsible for the completion of VAT work and non-audit accounts and provision of proactive advice.
Paige is responsible for the training and development of the junior staff within the firm, assisting with their progression in their professional careers and offering support throughout their studies.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Assistant
- Manager
Job Titles:
- Audit & Accounts Assistant
- in 2023 As an Audit and Accounts Assistant
Rary joined Haines Watts in 2023 as an Audit and Accounts Assistant and is currently studying towards his AAT qualification.
Rebecca joined Haines Watts in 2022 and is responsible for all aspects of the control and running of the office administration procedures and systems throughout the Firm. This includes the onboarding and maintenance of both personnel and client information, ensuring compliance with MLRs and GDPR.
In addition to her office management duties, Rebecca provides PA support to the Partners and senior management team.
Job Titles:
- Internal Accounts Manager
Richard joined Haines Watts in 1994 when his previous firm was acquired.
Richard works mainly with non corporate clients and manages the client payrolls as well as the practice accounts.
Robert Thompson, or ‘Bobby' to us here at Haines Watts, is one of our Managers based in our Aylesbury and Berkhamsted offices.
Ryan joined the team in August 2018 and is responsible for the day to day management of the accounts and audit process. Based in our Edinburgh office, Ryan works closely with the other senior team members to ensure a continuing high level of service. As a qualified CA, Ryan has over 10 years of experience in the small and medium sized business sector after working in offices based in Edinburgh and Fife. His practical experience spans across a range of sectors and businesses from unincorporated charities through to large group audits. Ryan prides himself on providing a high quality service and enjoys building client relationships, which is key to understanding your business. Possessing strong technical skills and understanding, Ryan ensures that accounts are compliant with legislation and delivered to deadline. Away from work, Ryan spends his time with his wife and three young daughters and also tries to fit in a few rounds of golf each month.
Job Titles:
- Company Secretarial Manager
Leading a team, progressing to Partner and being featured in Accountancy Age's 35 under 35 list, hear Sara's inspiring career journey to date.
Job Titles:
- Tax and Employment Benefit Advisor
Sara is a Personal Tax and Employment Benefits Advisor based in our Aylesbury office. In 1996 she joined Seddon Smith Chartered Accountants, who then merged with Haines Watts in 2017.
Sara's role involves working closely with clients to prepare and submit personal tax and P11D returns in a timely manner, and ensuring compliance requirements for personal tax are met. As a longstanding member of the team she has been able to build up good working relationships with our clients and takes pride in being approachable and reliable.
Outside of work Sara enjoys long countryside walks with her husband and their cocker spaniel Rolo, as well as travel both in the UK and abroad. She has a reputation in the office as a star baker and her chocolate brownies are always in demand!
Sarah joined Reynolds back in August 2003 which became part of the Haines Watts Group in 2005 and has been progressing academically as well as by promotions within. Sarah's role has progressed from Junior Administrator to Senior Administrator of which she undertook her Leadership & Management training which progressed with her promotion to Admin Manager.
Sarah has progressed even further and is now the Office Manager for the Exeter and Crediton offices, which incorporates the Head of Administration, Head of Marketing, HR, Health & Safety and P.A to the Partners.
Her long standing commitment to the firm has proven to be an asset to the firm as she has high knowledge of the day to day running of the office. Sarah is everybody's "go to girl" if you want or need anything.
Qualifications include:
Job Titles:
- Business Services Manager
Sarah is a qualified member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and has 17 years' experience working in the accountancy profession.
Sarah joined Haines Watts in 2013, having worked for the previous five years as a manager for Ocean Consultancy. She is currently based in both the Crediton and Exeter office.
She is manager of The Business Services team, who deal with the day to day requirements for clients, ranging from bookkeeping, VAT, management accounts, accounting software advice and software implementation and training.
Making Tax Digital has resulted in a switch to digital record keeping, Sarah has been responsible for helping clients with this change. She specialises in cloud based accounting and is Xero certified, along with the rest of her team.
In Sarah's spare time, she enjoys walking, cycling and days out with her family.
Sarah is a qualified accounts and tax adviser with over 20 years' experience in small and medium-sized general practices in and around the Bristol area. She has worked with a large variety of owner managed businesses from all sectors, providing accounting and tax services in order to assist clients in meeting their compliance needs.
She utilises her skills to provide tax planning advice geared to clients' commercial needs, with a particular focus on business and corporate taxes.
Sean is responsible for managing the team within our outsourcing department. He joined Haines Watts in 2018, after spending the previous nine months travelling in Asia and Australia. He has over 15 years of experience, covering a broad spectrum of accountancy services; including statutory reporting, taxation, VAT, payroll and bookkeeping. Sean is a qualified Chartered Certified Accountant, a fellow of the Association of Accounting Technicians, and also a Xero certified advisor.
Within the firm, Sean handles a diverse portfolio of clients, with a particular focus on providing outsourcing services to businesses across a wide range of sectors. Outside of work his interests include athletics, running 10k to marathon, travel, and Everton football club.
Seymour Griffiths is a Director based at our Aylesbury office. He is a Certified Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser. He was part of the Seddon Smith Chartered Accountants practice that merged with Haines Watts in 2017.
Seymour oversees a team caring for accounts, personal and business tax, and management reporting for Sole-Traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies. He joined Seddon Smith in 1996, and since then has worked with clients based both in the local area, and further afield, including some overseas assignments.
Outside of work, Seymour follows Tottenham Hotspur FC and enjoys cycling, foreign holidays, wine and 70's and 80's music. He is also involved in charitable work in his home town of Dunstable.
Shaun is the Managing Partner across the Aylesbury and Berkhamsted offices of Haines Watts.
Shaun has over 20 years of experience of looking after the needs of owner-managers and company directors, together with UK subsidiaries and multinational groups. Shaun utilises his own experiences as a business owner to help inspire and encourage his clients' to achieve their goals and is continuously growing his in house team of experts.
Shaun is the go-to guy responsible for explaining how our offer can add real value to potential clients, leading existing clients through the maze of legislative red tape, using commercial experience to put a practical twist on the unavoidable compliance process and helping clients develop their business and achieve their goals. His specialities include, but are not limited to, audit, internal audit, due diligence, management reporting, corporate and personal tax, and business advisory.
Shirley Hall is a Portfolio Manager, based in our Berkhamsted office.
Shirley looks after a number of our clients and is involved in all aspects relating to the running of a small to medium-sized business from preparing statutory accounts and corporation tax returns, to advising on bookkeeping and VAT.
Shirley enjoys a variety of interests including the theatre, fine dining, travelling, and music.
Sophia's career began after leaving college where she began her apprenticeship at Haines Watts. After 4 years of her apprenticeship journey, she achieved her chartered accountancy qualification and embarked on her career at Haines Watts.
Sophia's role is managing various client portfolios and staff members to ensure the best quality of service is provided to all clients across various assignments such as accounts, audits and taxation.
Sophie joined Haines Watts as a placement student, find out why she has stayed with the team ever since.
Stephen was made a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants since 2006. He joined Haines Watts in 2012 following over 30 years working for a firm of Chartered Accountants in Lowestoft.
Stephen deals with a wide range of clients from Sole Traders to Companies handling their accounts and taxation affairs. Other specialist areas include Cloud accounting packages, Foster Carers and Charities.
"The most rewarding part of my role is working with a diverse client portfolio that allows me to gain knowledge of a variety of business practices where I can pass that knowledge on to existing and new clients."
If I wasn't doing this I would be: spending time with my family and catching up on the long list of jobs they have for me.
Job Titles:
- Charity & NFP Partner - Swindon
Sue has been in accounting practice for 20 years and during that time has gained a wide range of experience in different business sectors and in accountancy, audit and business advisory services.
She began her career with a "Big 4" firm in Swindon in 1989. Her close involvement with companies has ranged from local businesses to international manufacturing and distribution businesses and covered accounts, audit and business tax.
Sue joined Haines Watts in September 2002 and became a Partner in May 2007 and has built up a portfolio of Charity and not for profit and as well and corporate clients.
Tanya has worked in both practice and financial services and has focused on working with charities and not for profit organisations for the last 20 years. Tanya's role is the coordination of all services to our charitable and not for profit client portfolio.
Tanya specialises in the charity sector, as well as acting as trustee in a personal capacity, and supports inspirational clients who are passionate about what they do and whose objectives are more than just financial results.
Tanya is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants with over 20 years of business advisory and forensic accounting experience. She joined the practice in 2019 to head the business solutions and forensic and litigation support services.
Tanya qualified at a leading corporate finance boutique where she gained valuable experience in all areas of lead advisory and transaction support services. She more recently implemented and headed a forensic accounting team for a national accountancy practice.
She has a wide range of corporate finance experience ranging from disposal (trade and private equity), management buy-outs, acquisitions, raising finance, strategic reviews, share valuations and due diligence assignments (on behalf of private equity, banks and corporate clients).
Tanya has been instructed on civil, family and criminal cases involving the key disciplines of forensic accountancy. These include, business interruption, commercial loss of profits, business and share valuations (matrimonial and civil), financial investigations and fraud cases. Tanya has produced numerous expert and advisory reports for civil, criminal and family cases and has given evidence in Court.
Terry qualified as a member of the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) in 2001, and was granted Fellow Membership in 2008 whilst with Ocean Consultancy. Ocean Consultancy became part of Haines Watts in 2013 and Terry became head of accountancy services where he spends his time working between the Exeter and Crediton offices.
His main responsibilities are overseeing all activities of the accountancy department for small to medium owner-managed businesses, involving supervision and management of general accounting and maintenance of effective internal controls, ensuring statutory compliance in all accounting initiatives.
Terry is a keen football supporter and also enjoys rugby, and, time and family permitting, follows the Exeter Chiefs whenever possible.
Tim joined Haines Watts in 2018 following the merger with Goldwyns. Since qualifying as a Chartered Certified Accountant in 2000, he has worked in all areas of the SME sector and uses his experience and knowledge to provide his clients with both commercial and practical advice.
Tim is focused on providing advice to his clients to help them achieve their business goals, which naturally results in the forging of longstanding business relationships.
Tim is a keen golfer and runs the junior section at his home golf club.
Following 8 years in retail banking, Tim commenced his accountancy training with a small firm in Worthing, West Sussex in 2014. In 2015, Tim relocated to the West Country with his family, building his knowledge in a number of areas, while obtaining both the AAT and ACCA qualifications. Tim manages a portfolio of clients and enjoys building strong business relationships while providing business advice.
Tim spends his spare time with his family and has a passion for live music, attending concerts as often as he is able.
Tony has been with Haines Watts for over 30 years and advises smaller owner managed businesses in all aspects of accounting and taxation.
Tony enjoys a strong bond with all of his clients, many of whom have been with Tony through generations of family businesses.
Tony is very hands on and looks after every element of his clients' affairs himself, with support from our outsourcing and personal tax teams as required.
Tony plays golf and is a keen supporter of Portsmouth FC. He keeps fit at his local gym.
Vicky is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. She is a passionate and driven qualified accountant with over 15 years' experience in general practice, having qualified with a local Cardiff independent firm before joining Haines Watts in 2011.
Vicky works with a diverse portfolio of clients and has experience across a variety of sectors, building relationships and adding value to clients of various sizes, from small, family owned or owner managed businesses through to large groups. She has vast experience of leading and directing complex audit assignments and offers a fresh perspective to help improve business processes and controls. She recognises that every business is different and subsequently provides her clients with a bespoke service that best meets their individual requirements.