Robson Laidler and RLFP had a combined turnover of £3.2m last year. The accountancy firm was founded in 1920 and employs over 50 staff at its base in Fernwood House in Jesmond. It has modernised its services and is investing heavily in its people, premises, software and training to meet the demands of the digital accountancy revolution.
Robson Laidler now offers added value consultant-led business growth support. The move has seen it invest in a brand new advisory software package to offer strategic planning advice to clients on topics such as revenue and wealth growth, profit and cash flow improvement, asset protection, tax minimisation, business marketing as well as retirement and estate planning.
Many of the firm’s clients are already benefiting from its new state-of-the-art cloud accountancy software packages and business advisory services, and the business aims to grow that number to at least 50% of its client base to help them take advantage of new technology within the next two years. Part of the five-year growth plan will also see the firm launch its own App so clients can have finances at their fingertips.
The firm has also expanded its board with three new directors to help drive business growth, and has seen chartered tax adviser Graham Purvis, 49, take the helm as the firm’s new managing director.
Graham Purvis said: “Accountancy is rapidly changing. Advancements in technology is impacting client needs and thus driving changes to traditional accountancy working practices.
“Government initiatives such as introducing the direct tax return without the need for professional assistance is one of the reasons why we are future proofing our business, giving our customers more than their financials, and offering a more strategic consultant-led business planning approach.
“Cloud technology is being embraced across all sectors, and is a game-changer for businesses large and small and it is a spearhead for driving our firm’s growth. After significant investment and continuous training in this area we are now in a prime position to take advantage of new markets.
“Adopting our new services such as cloud accountancy puts clients’ real time financial information at their fingertips, which helps them us see what we are dealing with now and in the future.”
Office improvements to Fernwood House include a new IT system, upgraded boardroom facilities and staff areas, and former meeting rooms turned into office space to accommodate the expanding workforce, which has grown to 55 in recent years.
Graham Purvis continued: “It is clear that clients of all sizes are becoming more discerning and are increasingly demanding a proactive, high quality and good value service from their professional advisors.
“We are reviewing our systems and procedures and our department structures with a new client journey charter, to ensure we are in a position to deliver an exceptional experience to our customers.
“We offer a strong director base, future ambition and solid services. We’ve recruited at all levels in recent months and we’re still on the lookout for talented ambitious individuals to help us take the firm forward into a new chapter.”
Former managing director Eddie Constable, who still remains on the board of 10 directors said: “Robson Laidler is changing to become a more service orientated practice that stands close to its clients and is aware of their demands. Our vision is to see us working as one with our clients.”