I didn’t come to Argyll to take over — I came here to be part of the community.
After years in accountancy and running my own business, my wife and I decided in late 2024 to relocate, settling into a lochside home we could truly call our own. The scenery was part of the draw, of course — but the real attraction was the people. There’s a sense of connection here that you don’t find everywhere.
When I began speaking with local business owners, I kept hearing familiar frustrations:
“It’s hard to get hold of my accountant.”
“They used to be good, but now it’s like they don’t care.”
“I just want someone who actually understands my business.”
That’s why I’m building a new accounting practice in this area — and for businesses in Helensburgh, you can reach me directly through Helensburgh Accountants.for businesses in Helensburgh, you can reach me directly through Helensburgh Accountants.
That’s me with the four-legged members of the family. Top right is Munro as a tiny pup, confidently planting a paw right across my eye. In the middle, Nevis — the youngest — is stretched out in pure bliss during a belly rub. And at the bottom is Daisy, the real boss around here, keeping a watchful eye on me as I try to quietly enjoy a cocktail sausage.
A Different Kind of Accounting Practice
I began my career in accountancy as a teenager, starting out as a modern apprentice before going on to qualify as a Chartered Management Accountant. Over the years, I’ve worked across tax, payroll, and compliance, passing every exam at the first sitting. Thanks to prior qualifications, I was able to fast-track and achieve chartered status in just 97 days.
Still, qualifications alone don’t mean much if they aren’t put to work for the benefit of the people I serve.
I don’t just identify as an accountant — I’m a business owner who happens to be skilled with numbers. That outlook makes a difference: it means I recognise that every invoice, tax return, and budget figure represents a real person making decisions, taking risks, and working to create something that endures.
It’s Not Just About Filing Tax Returns
Yes, I handle the technical essentials — accounts, tax, payroll, VAT — but the real impact is often found in the spaces between the numbers.
It’s in the conversation we have in August that stops a problem arising in December. In understanding exactly how you keep your books. In remembering you were considering a new hire — and checking in before you commit. In making sure that what saves tax also fits with the bigger picture of what you’re trying to achieve.
That’s the type of working relationship I aim to build with every client.
I don’t send work overseas. I don’t filter communication through a receptionist. If you email, it’s me who replies. If we speak on the phone, it’s me on the other end. And if you’d like to meet over a coffee to talk things through, I’ll gladly set aside the time.
A Fairer, More Personal Model
I deliberately work with a limited number of clients so I can give each one the attention their business deserves. There’s no expensive high-street office to pay for, and by keeping my overheads low, I can offer fair, transparent pricing — without adding charges for services that don’t deliver real value.
I’m not aiming to outdo the largest firms. My goal is to provide something different: a service that’s more personal, more attentive, and grounded in honesty.
If that’s the kind of working relationship you want with your accountant, I’d be happy to start the conversation.