Exciting changes to the management structure at HSJ Accountants
HSJ Accountants has established a reputation for providing exceptional financial and tax-related services to individuals and businesses alike. They have a wealth of experience in the compliance and business advisory field and have worked alongside many of Wales’ successful businesses, with support being tailored according to each business owners’ needs. Based in South Wales on the M4 corridor, strategically placed between Newport and Cardiff. They are focused on innovation and excellence for their clients and team alike.
The future’s bright
In July 2023 HSJ celebrates its 20th anniversary of providing independent personalised services to it’s client base. In the dynamic world of finance and business, where innovative ideas and technological advancements shape the landscape, it is crucial for businesses to stay agile and forward thinking. The 20-year anniversary of this forward-thinking firm marks not just a milestone but a significant turning point in the firm’s history. By entrusting the reins to the younger generation, the practice is embracing the future with open arms. The 3 Directors, Leanne Owen, Andrew Hill and Natalie Vvind have completed buying out the original partners Kim Jackson and Robyn Hughes.
Two decades ago, the founders of this accountancy practice had a vision of creating a firm that would focus a strong belief in technology, and a customer centric approach, they set out to deliver comprehensive financial solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. Throughout its existence the firm has never wavered from its commitment to innovation. Embracing cloud-based accounting and streamlining processes, allowing their team to focus on higher-value tasks. This dedication to staying at the cutting edge of technology not only enhanced client experiences but also optimised internal operations. Now the baton is passed along to the next generation to continue this ethos for the next 20 years.
Innovation and growth
In the new structure Leanne focus’s on innovative new products emerging, driving efficiency and steering the business into the future, as well as maintaining a close relationship with the clients she helps. Andrew has transformed and modernised the audit approach and is continuing to grow this side of the business, and really focuses on developing the inexperienced team members to help them flourish in their career. Natalie overseas all things tax related, her fresh approach, constantly pushing boundaries for modernising practices to ensure clients are brought along the digital journey with us is impressive.
A seamless handover.
Leanne was keen to point out that this has been a well thought out and planned hand over, which has been executed over a number of years. All 5 Directors have worked alongside one another for the last 5 years. Planning and collaborating on the future of HSJ to ensure everybody’s objectives and values were aligned. It was important for all involved that clients still experienced the same quality of service with no disruption.
This has worked well for all parties involved with everybody achieving their objectives. Robyn and Kim were keen to ensure their clients were looked after well into the future. By working together for this prolonged period, created an environment where this could be achieved. The quality of client service and team environment within the office continued to evolve with the wider climate in a positive way.
Dynamic and forward thinking
The 3 remaining directors, all under 45 years of age are very dynamic and forward thinking in the way they approach the business and client service delivery. They have emerged as the driving forces behind the firm’s continuous growth and evolution. Their contributions have been instrumental in securing new clients, spearheading innovative services and expanding the firms reach. The recent move to handover the reins of their practice exemplifies their trust in the new generation but also aligns perfectly with the firm’s philosophy of embracing change and staying ahead of the curve.
The competitive edge
Andrew Hill commented that they believe their independent nature gives them a competitive edge of being able to adapt quickly to market demands. Also to tailor their service to each of our client’s needs. When speaking on the latest trend of consolidations in the accountancy sector, Andrew said that he believes there is still a very strong demand for Independent firms in Wales. HSJ are large enough to cover the full range of services but client’s can still deal with an owner directly. They see this ability to retain a personal approach as a competitive advantage in their field. This has certainly been an advantage to Andrew as he has continued to grow and develop the audit services for the firm.
Commitment to excellence
HSJ Accountants is known for their attention to detail and personalised approach to client service. This culminated in them winning the Award of Excellence for best Business and Tax Advisors 2023. This further demonstrates their commitment to excellence and innovation within their field. The award is a glowing endorsement of the quality of services they provide and further cements their reputation for providing clients with a high-quality experience in this sector.
Natalie Vvind also pointed out that this level of service is not possible alone. Natalie says ‘it is a real team effort, with a team of 37 plus, all contributing to a shared goal of delivering client focused solutions. Recognising that fresh perspectives and ideas is vital to staying ahead in the competitive market. HSJ are consistently reviewing their offering to ensure they are an attractive proposition for young talent. The culture at HSJ is very open and friendly with ideas and personalities being encouraged to thrive. We believe this has encouraged a strong bond throughout the team. We encourage team activities, for example, 15 of the team recently completed the Porthcawl 10K for the charity Prostate Cymru. With many more team members coming along to cheer them on and helping to raise funds for the charity.
Retaining talent
Andrew says that with all of the difficulty in the recruitment market over last couple of years, we are actually really fortunate to have retained and attracted team members. We also believe the HSJ culture has a lot to do with our success. We provide a rounded positive package that we think is very attractive. This includes a funded social committee budget, team members getting their birthday off and remote, flexible working policies. Along with the more traditional health and life policies available. By providing a positive environment to work in, has resulted in attracting and retaining team members. Retaining our talented team allows for consistency for our clients and building on client knowledge. The 3 Directors all agree that the whole team is the key to success.
They’re committed to ensuring that the successful career paths they have forged for themselves are available to upcoming talent. So they can have ambitions to become shareholders in the future. Leanne said ‘it is very important to us that there are no glass ceilings. That opportunities are available for people who feel they too could lead an innovative independent practice into the future. Our paths were slightly different to get to this point. Each of us took different qualification routes and we have varied professional experiences. Hence, why it’s important to us that the door is open for this in the future.
Positive outlook
Leanne continues, ‘the challenges faced by all business’s in the future are also opportunities. This ranges from understanding and working with AI, actually using the technology around us to work smarter. HSJ look forward to working side by side with clients, helping them navigate this new world. Also, to find solutions that drive their business and personal objectives. HSJ remain totally committed to ensuring that the firm remains an independent practice that continues to grow, nurtures its team and offers the best and broadest service to our clients’.