Northern Accountants launches HR arm

Leeds-based accountancy firm Northern Accountants has launched a new division, Northern HR, appointing Paula Ingham to lead the brand.

Paula joins as HR lead with three decades of experience across sectors including care, banking and real estate. 

A chartered CIPD member and former consultancy owner, she brings strategic and operational expertise in employee relations, performance and organisational development.

The launch of Northern HR supports the firm’s ambition to become a Top 100 UK practice by 2030. 

It follows the recent formation of a strategic advisory board to guide long-term growth.

Anna Masheter, non-executive director for people and culture, said: “From assisting businesses with the initial setup of policies, contracts and handbooks, through to strategic HR planning to deliver acquisitions and business change, Paula is comfortable working with employees at all levels including line managers, and directors looking to grow compliant, profitable, and people-optimised organisations. 

“She also understands which HR metrics matter, which is particularly crucial in the current economic climate.” 

Northern Accountants supports over 500 businesses across the North of England and Scotland, operating from offices in Leeds, Hull and Edinburgh. 

The firm currently reports a turnover of £3.3 million, with a target of £7.8 million.

Founder Phil Ellerby added: “As a strategic growth accountancy practice, we have always gone way beyond the numbers when supporting our customers to achieve their commercial and personal goals.

“To truly understand the mechanics – if not entire DNA – of their businesses, we often get close to people-related matters too. 

“From the more obvious payroll support to discussions around recruitment, expansion and succession strategies, the need for HR expertise is therefore a logical next step, and a crucial point of difference in our crowded market.

“We’re in a privileged position of trust with our customers. 

“Now offering HR services – from everyday essentials to support during complex business transitions – we can deliver even more value, where and when they need it most.

“Paula is another critical hire for Northern Accountants – the latest in nine new appointments - as we push forward on our own ambitious trajectory. 

“This is the start of Northern HR’s journey, but of course further roles are in the plan, to develop this business too.”

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