Northumberland accountancy firm expands workforce to 141

A Northumberland chartered accountancy firm has expanded its workforce following one of the busiest periods in its 100-year history.

In the last few months, each of the three Greaves West & Ayre offices in Berwick, Haddington and Bournmoor has seen an increase in personnel. Positions have been across GWA’s many departments, from IT to VAT and at every level from apprentices to senior management.

This takes GWA’s total workforce to 141, strengthening its place as one of the largest independent accountancy and wealth management firms working outside of Edinburgh and Newcastle, and one of the biggest employers in the area.

The firm also launched the GWA Academy, a training and development Centre of Excellence that facilitates and promotes internal education and skill sharing, allowing all employees to develop their talent and grow confidently.

Roseanne Bennett, training partner at GWA, said “Like most businesses, the pandemic challenged us on both a commercial and personal basis.

“But we stepped up and almost overnight went from running the business from three offices to operating out of 90 spare rooms, home offices and kitchen tables across the country without compromising client confidentiality and security.

“Our ability to innovate and to operate flexibly has been key to dealing with the crisis and preparing for recovery. I am incredibly proud of how everyone worked together to support our clients with their unprecedented business and IT needs over the last 18 or so months.”

Roseanne concluded: “It is a pleasure to welcome so many new members to the team. I am sure they will be successful individually and help us to continue to deliver Quality Advice and Quality Service to all of our clients.”