Winner

Chandran Sharma 

Chandan stood out as the strongest emerging professional, demonstrating impressive momentum since establishing his practice in December 2024. He has grown his client base from 5 to 110 in a short period, while maintaining a clear focus on supporting local family businesses.  

Judges were impressed with his commitment to ongoing professional development and meaningful community contribution, including pro bono accounting support for charities such as Lil Tinkers and a local registered cat charity, alongside active involvement with Soroptimist International to promote opportunities for women and support local community development.  
 

Highly Commended  

Vicki Summersby 

The judges were impressed with the change in direction of Vicki’s firm to adopt profit-first, principles-based accounting while supporting local businesses through her educational initiative, Purpose First Finance. This approach helps individuals align financial decision-making with their wider values. 

Vicki is always facing forward in her career trajectory, using branded methodology to support clients and championing a values-led approach to finance. Judges noted, “It is not often you hear the words kindness, patience and care in an application, but Vicki has this in abundance. She deserves her Highly Commended recommendation.” 

Shortlist