We engaged H&M to resolve deficiencies with the group consolidation and management reporting. We can’t thank the team enough for such a positive impact within a tight timeframe. The Board took a lot of confidence from Hutcheon Mearns delivery and the initial remit was extended to recommend and implement a cost and operational restructuring in the business. Following the successful operational restructuring, Hutcheon Mearns has been retained to assist with management reporting and audit work, the value of which has been demonstrable and they have more than justified their cost through a reduction in audit costs.

Following the introduction of a new company share option scheme late in the year we required the preparation of a complex valuation model and support in preparing our accounting entries in line with both our accounting policy and latest accounting standards. We initially approached a Big 4 firm, although following discussions with HM in the days before Christmas we were impressed with their capacity to provide us with an early quote and importantly experience in performing similar share scheme modelling work. Despite our request being at short notice and a busy time of year, Hutcheon Mearns delivered a quality product on time, and on Budget which has since been audited with no issues. We would have no hesitation in working with HM for future project work.

Hutcheon Mearns have worked on a number of technical accounting projects for us, some of which have been complex. Their extensive experience in planning and running a project is clear, and their team have consistently taken a very thorough, methodical and practical approach to technical accounting projects. They ensure a good understanding of the business, research and investigation work has been meticulous and professional.

As a group, we were significantly late with the filing of our statutory accounts for both our trading and holding companies. Due to changes in personnel, we did not have anyone in our finance team with any historic knowledge of the year which was being audited. Hutcheon Mearns supported us in the audit and the preparation of the holding companies accounts. They were able to hit the ground running and an excellent team player. Without their input, it would have taken us much longer to get our accounts across the line.

With the CFO and Financial Controller departing the company in quick succession, Craig was selected as the safe pair of hands to lead the global finance group as interim CFO until the arrival of the new CFO four months later. Craig was an excellent support and rather than simply keep the wheels turning, he helped identify weaknesses and improve systems with enthusiasm, dedication and an energy level more commonly found in permanent employees. Craig was happy to travel to our various locations and quickly took ownership, responsibility and control of the global finance team. He gained immediate respect of his subordinates, peers and that of the board members and I would recommend his consultancy service to any company in need of some outstanding interim senior financial support.

We have been delighted by the support received from Hutcheon Mearns. They have led the implementation of a new accounting system, developed new management packs and improved the timeliness of monthly reporting - we could not recommend more highly!