catriona freebairn - managing director
My role is a varied one, encompassing both business management and client responsibilities.
Operationally my focus is to ensure we deliver the exceptional service we promise to our clients, in a cost effective manner. For me this has involved the introduction of a system for continuous improvement to our working practices, which is vital to us as we face ongoing demands from economic and technological changes. I am also in charge of running the office on a day to day basis and manage our internal financial operations.
Professionally, I am the senior accountant in the firm; ensuring that we meet the highest professional accounting standards required by the ACCA and ICAEW, not just in respect of the work we do for our clients but also in the level of training and support we provide to trainees and qualified staff. I was very proud in 2008 when the firm was awarded the highest accreditation from ACCA as an approved employer as well as being Investors in People.
Without a doubt one of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the enjoyment and satisfaction I get from working with my clients, and building strong business relationships. I pride myself on providing a high quality service and I take an informal, down-to-earth approach which is the culture of this firm; many new clients comment on how relaxed and at ease they feel when first coming to see us. I have a specialism in hi-tech and biotech businesses, which stemmed initially from a background and interest in science. In the last few years I have helped a number of start-ups in their formative years with their tax and accounting requirements, which are often complex and quite different to other businesses.
history
After gaining a degree in Physics from Manchester University I went into practice to train as an accountant and qualified in 1995 with a London based firm of Chartered Accountants. I worked for a number of years as Audit Manager within the same firm, dealing with different varieties of clients including surveyors, building firms, oriental rug importers and large manufacturing companies. In 2000 I left to join an ex-colleague running a small accounts and audit practice in Bedfordshire. However I felt the need for a more challenging environment and was very interested in the opportunities and variety of work open to me at Andrew Webster Limited. I therefore joined the firm as Manager of the Accounts and Business Tax team in October 2001, keen to fully utilise my accounting skills around complex tax issues within a larger multi disciplinary team
In March 2007 I was promoted to Head of Operations and appointed as a Director of the company in November of the same year.
other business
I am involved as a volunteer treasurer with a local community sports association and a very successful after-school club which looks after 50 children.
outside interests
Family life and 2 sons keep me very busy but when I find time I like to cook, read, listen to music and hike. I try as often as possible to get together with my family up in Durham and Leeds. .
the future
My aim as we grow the business is to ensure we maintain our standards of client care without losing the innovative and informal culture which is so important to us and valued by clients. I have no doubt it may not be easy, but we have a great team of friendly and highly skilled people which stands us in good stead. I also relish a challenge .