Leeds-headquartered Northern Accountants has announced the formation of a sister-brand – Northern HR – as the firm progresses its ambition to become a Top 100 UK practice.
Paula Ingham – an experienced HR business partner and former owner of her own consultancy – has been newly-appointed to head up the venture.
A long-standing chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Professional Development (CIPD), Paula has around 30 years’ experience in employee relations, people and performance management, training, learning, recruitment and organisational development – to name just a few.
Having most recently worked in the care sector, her career also spans environments including real estate and banking, as well as providing both operational and strategic HR support for multiple SMEs as a consultant.
Her appointment to HR lead, marks a decisive move for Northern Accountants, which recently announced its ambition to become a top 100 firm.
“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,” explained founder Phil Ellerby. “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.”
The birth of Northern HR follows hot on the heels of Northern Accountants announcing the formation of a new strategic advisory board last month.
Newly-enrolled NED for people and culture, Anna Masheter, added: “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.”
Offering a concluding thought, Phil said: “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.”
With offices in Leeds, Hull and Edinburgh, Northern Accountants – and now Northern HR – supports more than 500 organisations across the North of England and Scotland. The £3.3m turnover firm has its sights set on £7.8m by 2030.
Northern HR is currently offering free 50-minute consultations for organisations needing help with their people strategies. These can be booked northernhr.co.uk.