Managing partners in leading Accountancy & Business Advisory practices discuss activity, in-demand service lines, and the business outlook

ACTIVITY

Over the past year, HLB Ireland has focused on enhancing its service offerings and leadership structure.

Our leadership team expanded with key audit, tax, advisory and risk services appointments.

These strategic enhancements drive our commitment to providing top-tier advisory services and addressing the complex needs of our clients.

Alongside these developments, we have experienced growth in our outsourcing and audit services, reflecting increased demand across our sectors, particularly technology, hotels and leisure and arts and entertainment.

We have also experienced a notable expansion in our private client services.

Leveraging technology has been central to this growth, enhancing our capabilities and allowing us to offer more comprehensive and efficient solutions, along with strategic mergers to grow our client base and capabilities.

CONSOLIDATION

We have completed six transactions which have significantly enhanced our ability to support clients through complex regulatory landscapes, both locally and internationally.

Additionally, as a wholly Irish-owned firm, we actively explore opportunities for like-minded firms to join us.

Finding the right merger partners is paramount, and aligning with our culture of client care and commitment to maintaining a supportive and inclusive workplace is critical.

Our approach enhances our flexibility and responsiveness — qualities that are attractive to potential partners who share our ethos and commitment to excellence.

DEVELOPMENTS

This year has been pivotal for HLB Ireland, as several strategic initiatives have been rolled out.

Increased demand for sector-specific expertise from ambitious owner-managers and entrepreneurial-minded clients has driven our focus on tailored services.

Our firm’s commitment to innovation was recognised by the International Accounting Association.

Additionally, we are advising our clients on increasing requirements, including CSRD reporting, which is crucial for compliance and maintaining competitiveness.

We have significantly grown our talent across all service and sector teams and have opportunities for graduates to experienced professionals keen to find new leadership roles.

AI Rapid technological change and the rise of AI are reshaping our profession.

At HLB Ireland, we have embraced AI to automate processes, such as VAT filing and audit operations, which is enhancing our operational efficiency and client service.

This transformation has facilitated us to shift our teams’ focus from processing tasks to providing strategic advice, aligning with our broader vision of enhancing advisory services and client engagement.

OUTLOOK

Our outlook for HLB Ireland and the broader business landscape remains highly optimistic as we actively implement an ambitious growth strategy that is yielding tangible results.

Central to our approach is our unwavering commitment to client care.

We ensure all of our clients have direct access to partners and specialised advisers, which facilitates a responsive and personalised service.

Aside from geopolitical uncertainties, our clients’ primary concerns this year revolve around accelerating digital transformation and navigating an increasingly stringent regulatory environment.

We continue to focus on providing strategic guidance and technical solutions that help our clients manage these challenges efficiently and with minimal disruption to their operations.