March Consulting is a firm of Chartered Certified Accountants with experience in a range of businesses, from individuals and the self-employed to small and medium sized limited companies. We contacted director Ian Coombes F.C.C.A. M.B.A. to discuss how he and his colleagues have responded to the challenges created by the COVOD-19 pandemic.
“It’s a very surreal and a very busy time,” he explained. “We have offices in Hitcham and Stowmarket but have adopted remote working and are making use of video conferencing to maintain contact with and support our clients through this difficult time. It’s important to be available to them and to respond quickly as new support initiatives and funding streams are announced by the government.”
March Consulting has delayed invoicing and extended payment terms for certain clients and helped support them in preparing cash flow forecasts and other information required to take advantage of the government’s Business Interruption Loan Scheme.
“We are also publishing guidance on all the relevant government initiatives as a result of the Coronavirus that will help support our clients whether they be self-employed or directors of companies. We also host weekly video conferencing meetings advising clients and other local businesses about recent government business support initiatives and provide a forum for general business discussions.”
Ian worked in corporates for a number of years in various finance roles in various business sectors knowing eventually he wanted to run his own business which he launched in 2004. He work with his partner who liaises with a number of key clients together with additional accounting, bookkeeping and administrative support. The whole range of tailored services are provided, from payroll, bookkeeping, management accounting, financial controls testing and consulting.
Ian also work with a network of independent professionals providing legal, consulting and financial advisory services with a focus on those business owners considering the sale of their business either through retirement or wanting to do something different.
“As a growing practice providing cost effective, personable and professional services demand continues to increase through the growth of existing clients and new clients coming to use our tailored services. More and more people chose, or have to, work for themselves or have ideas to own their own business. We provide the full range of compliance services, e.g. payroll, VAT, auto enrolment, statutory accounts, as well as having had practical operational experience to offer a broad based financial outsourced service.
“Our client base continues to grow and evolve, from the charitable sector to manufacturing and service businesses and individuals and the self-employed.
“Most of our new clients emanate from referrals with very high client retention success due to the approachable and cost effective service we provide.”
Ian has fully embraced ‘cloud based’ computing which enables the company to fulfil the role of a trusted advisor to clients beyond its regional catchment area. Rolling this out to more clients together with extended use of video conferring has helped facilitate a wider reach.
“Our success it based on simple principles,” says Ian. “A sincere personable approach, understanding the client’s business and always trying to exceed expectations to help them and their businesses succeed.”
To find out more about Ian and the team at March Consulting visit: www.marchconsultingltd.com