'Success isn’t just measured in figures and numbers'..How Bangor accountant built a business on trust, team and long-term thinking
Natalie McCartan, principal at NJM Accountancy reflects on growing an all-female team, supporting owner-managed businesses and putting people before numbersWhen I started my accountancy firm, I had a clear vision of the kind of business I wanted to build. It wasn’t just about numbers, compliance or growth for growth’s sake. I wanted to create a firm rooted in strong values – one that prioritised people, relationships and long-term thinking, both for our clients and for the team behind the business.I grew up in Bangor and from an early age I had a strong interest in business. I was always curious about how companies worked, what made them succeed, and why some struggled. That interest led me to study Business Studies at Ulster University, after which I completed an Advanced Diploma in Accountancy and went on to sit my professional exams through a training contract. That period gave me a solid technical foundation, but it was my early career experience that really shaped how I approach accountancy today.I worked as an assistant accountant within my family’s business, which acted as agents and distributors for a range of local companies, including grocery and pharmaceutical businesses. Being involved at that level gave me invaluable exposure to the day-to-day realities of running a business. I saw first-hand how much business owners rely on clear, practical financial advice, especially when they are juggling cash flow, staffing pressures and growth ambitions. It reinforced my belief that good accountants don’t just report on the past – they help guide decisions for the future.NJM Accountancy began with just me. Like many small businesses, it started modestly, driven by a strong work ethic and a commitment to doing things properly. Over the past 16 years, it has grown steadily into an all-female firm with a team of 10 highly skilled professionals. Today, we support owner-managed businesses across a wide range of industries throughout Northern Ireland, with a strong emphasis on building trusted relationships, providing clarity, and supporting long-term planning.I have an absolutely brilliant team, we’re a family. I trust my instincts when recruiting because culture is everything to me. We have built a unique, supportive and fun working environment, and I work hard to protect that culture as we grow. Skills can be taught, but values, attitude and teamwork matter just as much. Creating a place where people feel valued, supported and empowered has been central to our success.No two days in the business are ever the same. One moment we might be helping a hospitality client navigate complex payroll legislation, the next we’re advising healthcare recruiters or professional services firms on forward planning, tax efficiency or strategic decision-making. That variety keeps the role interesting and reinforces the importance of truly understanding each client’s business rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.Payroll has become a particularly significant area of growth for us. It’s not just about software, knowledge, regulation and responsibility – it’s about people’s livelihoods. Payroll affects whether someone can pay their rent, buy groceries or afford childcare. In recent years, it has become increasingly complex for employers, with ever-changing legislation and responsibilities. Recognising this, we launched Payroll NI in 2019, a specialist division staffed by fully trained payroll professionals, allowing us to provide dedicated, expert support in this critical area.Natalie McCartan, principal at NJM Accountancy reflects on growing an all-female team, supporting owner-managed businesses and putting people before numbersThe highs of running a business are seeing our clients grow with confidence and knowing we’ve played a part in that journey. We don’t just provide a service, we help educate them on their finances so that they can make informed decisions, with our expert advice. The most challenging time in business was during Covid-19 and seeing the impact on clients’ businesses.Throughout this time I did everything I could to provide consistent and informed support. This meant closely monitoring government announcements as they were released and proactively contacting clients to explain the implications for their businesses and what we could do to support them during that difficult period.One of my proudest achievements has been building our team – something I wish I’d had the confidence to do sooner. Growing the business while maintaining our values-led culture hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. We treat clients like people, not numbers, and we operate as a true team.Looking ahead, our focus is on sustainable growth, growing our fantastic team, continuing to invest in our people and systems and further strengthen our advisory and payroll services.Natalie McCartan, founder of NJM Accountancy pictures at The Merchant Hotel, BelfastFor me, success isn’t just measured in figures and numbers. It’s about trust, impact and building a business that both our clients and our team are proud to be part of – and that’s exactly what we are doing at NJM Accountancy.
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