A pair of rising stars at a leading Midlands independent accountancy firm are celebrating after achieving their professional qualifications.
Tim Smith and Sophie Butteriss, both based in HB&O’s Coventry office, have completed their final exams and will become chartered accountants.
They will now move into senior positions at the firm which employs 14 trainees across its offices in Birmingham, Coventry and Leamington Spa.
Tim, 29 from Coventry, has been with HB&O for four years. He joined the firm in 2021 after switching career paths following the pandemic.
Since joining the business originally as an apprentice, he has worked across its accounts and audit teams and built experience in management accounts and VAT returns.
Tim said: “I’ve been working towards the ACA for three years, so it’s an overwhelming relief to have now completed the exams.
“From my first day I’ve had great support from senior members of the team, who have been approachable and provided me with guidance throughout. The firm has backed me fully during my studies and helped me to get to this stage.
“I’m looking forward to the next stage of my career and taking on more responsibility with clients and also having the opportunity to help develop new trainees too.”
Sophie, 24 from Leicestershire, has completed the ACCA exams. She joined the firm in 2023 after graduating in Accounting and Finance from De Montfort University, where she also gained industry experience during a placement year with a major construction equipment business.
Sophie has predominantly worked in HB&O’s accounts team, with some experience in audit.
“It’s been brilliant since I joined the team two years ago and I’ve had great opportunities to grow and develop,” said Sophie.
“It has been a lot of hard work to pass my final exams, but it’s very satisfying that all of the effort I have put in has paid off. I’ve had consistent support from everyone here with both my studies and client work, which has made a real difference.
“I’m looking forward to taking on a more senior role.”
HB&O employs 100 staff and has a strong track record of supporting the development of trainees and apprentices. It provides structure and guidance for training, financial backing for qualifications and offers a range of on-the-job learning opportunities.
As part of the firm’s commitment to being an employer of choice and delivering the highest quality standards in client experience, HB&O continues to invest significantly in its people.
Lauren Sanders, HR Manager, added: “More than a quarter of the team are currently engaged in formal training. This focus on continuous learning underpins our growth and ensures that we continue to develop together with and for our clients.”
Wayne Gutteridge, Director at HB&O, said: “Tim and Sophie have developed to be important members of our team and have shown great commitment to their studies and client work since joining the firm.
“It is fantastic to see them both pass their exams and achieve chartered accountant status. We’re excited about their futures with the firm, providing excellent support for clients, further growing their expertise and supporting the next generation of trainees.”
