We have enjoyed sustained turnover growth in every year since that time, a reflection of our strategy which focuses on recruiting and retaining the best people and on providing exceptional client service. We are proud to have a team of 150 people and have ambitious plans to grow that number.

Any exciting projects in the pipeline?

We recently launched our 'Breakthrough Client Experience' when all staff took time out to consider how we can deliver exceptional service to our clients, from our first engagement to the completion of the most complex transactions. I believe this is the first time an accountancy practice in Northern Ireland has ever taken its entire staff away from its workplace to think about its clients!

What are the long term prospects for your company?

Excellent. We have a clear vision of how we should perform as a business and work together as a team across all levels to ensure that our offering is as competitive and attractive as our most demanding clients expect.

What are the biggest challenges facing your organisation?

Our main challenge is to listen to our clients and be able to respond to their changing needs; and in return to match these needs with the technical expertise required, provided by people who know exactly what exceptional client service means and know how to deliver it.

What can the government do to ensure a healthy and sustainable NI economy?

It is important that not all of our efforts are concentrated on the issue of corporation tax. There are other incentives we can introduce which will attract foreign investment, including R&D tax incentives. The Government should also ensure that we foster a culture of entrepreneurship.

Why would someone work for you?

There are many reasons but, ultimately, we believe that work is about the people we work with. And our people are at the heart of our business.

I place a huge importance on having a strong, people-focused culture in the workplace, based on openness and honesty. At BDO Stoy Hayward we aim to recruit and retain the best people. Indeed, five of our 12 current partners began life as trainee accountants in the firm!

Your views on the economy?

Over recent years there has been some good progress. Over 115,000 jobs have been created in the last decade, exports have increased 70% to stand at more than £5bn in 2006£2007. We still face significant economic challenges ahead, not least rising energy prices, depressed property prices and inflationary pressures making it no longer possible for us to use costs as the unique selling points to attract foreign direct investment. We also need to highlight the skills and expertise of our local workforce and supply chains if we are to compete with low cost economies, whilst at the same time supporting local, outward looking companies.

The business climate — good or bad?

There is no doubt that the climate is changing and, for many, it is a worrying time. For some it will be a case of 'wait and see' and this may slow down the market in the short term. For others, with a long term perspective, there are still good investment opportunities both in the property and services sector, as there is price correction, and in commercial businesses as they drive growth, become more innovative, outward looking and export focussed.

What ambitions do you have on a personal level?

A better work/life balance is a big personal ambition yet to be realised. In reality this imbalance doesn't annoy me! I'm very passionate about my work at BDO Stoy Hayward and am privileged to have been appointed managing partner.

What do you get up to in your spare time?

Family and friends (and holidays!) are my priority outside of working hours. Italy is probably my top holiday destination. I just wish I could spend a little more time there.