Plus Accounting – what does the future of accounting look like?

Plus Accounting has seen impressive growth in both the team and the number of clients it has proudly supported over the last few years, and it has ambitious plans for the future. 

Plus Accounting is a fiercely independent firm and a trusted business partner to some of the most impactful businesses and charities in Sussex, and it is aiming to double in size over the next three years. The directors believe that there are some fantastic opportunities in the market for agile businesses to solve interesting challenges and develop sustainable legacies of which to be proud.

The directors are clear that in order for independent firms of accountants to survive and prosper, they need a comprehensive range of skills and resources which allows them to provide advice on all aspects of auditing, taxation and financial management. The directors equally recognise that the firm needs to be of a sufficient size to accommodate the specialists and technical advisers who provide these services. In these circumstances, size really does matter and with 4 directors and a team of over 35 professionals, Plus Accounting is well on the way to achieving this aim.  

The last few years has meant that technological innovations that felt years away, are here now and creating lasting change in business. Now, more than ever, clients appreciate a business partner to support them with their financial functions and help them navigate their way toward a more profitable, long-lasting future. This has given the directors an opportunity to look at the entire business, focussing on their most important asset – their team.

Developing a high performing team of advisors

Plus Accounting is particularly proud of its record in training accountants and advisers. In the past 12 months, it has seen another two qualify as chartered accountants, and the business currently has nearly 30% of the team studying towards accounting, tax and marketing qualifications. 

Due to ambitious plans for growth, the directors are keen to expand their trainee programme even further and continue to train outstanding accountants and advisors, in addition to employing experienced hires ready for the next challenge. Recently, both Stanley Fowler and Kayleigh Jones were recognised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW) for the high pass rate they achieved in their examinations, and this is something of which Plus Accounting are extremely proud.

The team at Plus Accounting is the backbone to the business’s success and, as a firm, it looks to empower their clients to take control of their finances. Plus Accounting enables its advisors to have the skills and confidence to ask the right questions when speaking to clients and ensure that they have a positive impact on our community. 

They recently welcomed Jake Standing as a director and shareholder. Jake is an active member of the Brighton business community and formerly a partner at top 30 accountancy firm Kreston Reeves. Jake is experienced in developing a high-performing team of business advisors, partnering clients and consulting on all aspects of business planning, funding, financial planning, analysis and digital excellence. 

Paul Feist, Managing Director at Plus Accounting, commented: “Jake’s appointment brings a valuable new dynamic to the firm and his experience and skill set will be in much demand with our diverse and vibrant client base.” 

Paul added “Jake’s appointment comes at an important time for the firm. The firm’s ambition is to continue expanding and the strategic plan targets a doubling in our size over the next three years. Jake’s experience of working in a larger firm and a spell in industry makes him well placed to help the existing directors bring these plans to fruition.”  

Jake said: “I’ve been really overwhelmed by the welcome I have received from the team at Plus. It is clear that people enjoy each other’s company, create a good level of challenge, and relish partnering our clients through the financial rollercoaster we seem to experience each day.

“Advising business owners on their growth plans, and supporting them on that journey, is what I really enjoy. When given the opportunity to be one of those business owners, I knew it was something I just had to do! It’ll be hard work, but together I’m sure we will continue to develop a sustainable business we are all proud of.” 

Collaboration is key

This year, Plus Accounting is supporting the ‘Shaun by the Sea’ Art Trail, raising money for Martlets Hospice. Partnering on this brilliant campaign brings both creativity and community together, which perfectly aligns with the Plus ethos. They are excited for these sculptures to hit the streets of Brighton & Hove this Autumn and cannot wait for the smiles when everyone sees the wonderful designs.

They have also partnered with The Good Business Club, where the team has supported a fully-funded membership for 5 ‘doing good’ businesses. Vicky King, Marketing Manager, commented that  “it was instantly very clear after one conversation that this was an organisation that matched our firm’s values and love of contributing to our city”.

Plus Accounting also continues to work with Brighton & Hove Chamber, Wired Sussex, Silicon Brighton who are integral elements of our business eco-system, together with many more.

Looking into the future

This is a business that is always on the lookout for innovative and ‘out of the box’ ways to support the local business community – it believes continuing to build strong relationships with memberships, community, clients and team will be the key to their future success. The economic landscape is ever changing and as a firm they must continually evolve and adapt to meet the changing requirements of their stakeholders – Plus Accounting believes this to be an exciting time and a chance to really get to know and develop its clients, team and create an environment that allows them to be their true selves.

www.plusaccounting.co.uk