Siobhan OConnell’s Post

🏃♂️ Worth a read: S&W's John O'Callaghan on strategy, patience and the marathon mindset The latest issue of Accountancy Ireland features an interesting interview with John O'Callaghan, Managing Partner of S&W Ireland, which has plenty of insights on what sustainable growth looks like in professional services. Speaking fresh from running the Sydney Marathon, John draws a compelling parallel: "A marathon only really gets started about 32km into the full 42km. We are patient at S&W because we know exactly what we want to do and where we want to be." In a sector where PE transactions have exploded from 20 to nearly 200 in just two years, John makes a distinction between firms that are "aggregators" chasing quick exits and "consolidators" building for the long term. Key takeaways from the interview: ✅ S&W's acquisition strategy following Apax Partners backing - why cultural fit trumps speed ✅ The recent Beechwood Partners deal and expansion into private client tax ✅ His candid take on the Private Equity boom: "Some will work but quite a few won't" ✅ What partner-led practices should look for (and watch out for) when considering a sale ✅ Why integration is the foundation of sustainable growth John's advice? "If the fit isn't there, don't do it. If the culture is too different, and if there isn't a fit in ambition, strategy and goals, then walk away." 🔗 https://lnkd.in/ebmc2fBc #Accountancy #ProfessionalServices #IrishBusiness #PrivateEquity #Leadership

Exciting News from Glasgow! We’re proud to announce a major expansion of our presence across Glasgow as experienced accountant Russell Chapman partners with Rowena Lloyd to lead TaxAssist Accountants in both the North and South of the city. This strategic partnership builds on Russell’s thriving practice and integrates a newly acquired business comprising three shops, now rebranded under the TaxAssist Accountants name – bringing their total locations to seven across the Glasgow region. Rowena brings a wealth of expertise in business performance, strategy and financial management, and together with Russell, they’re committed to delivering proactive, clear and friendly advice to local taxpayers and businesses. “Russell and I share a passion for helping clients achieve their goals. We’re excited to grow this successful practice and support even more businesses across Glasgow,” says Rowena. Read more here https://lnkd.in/etVgZwRe #TaxAssistAccountants #GlasgowBusiness #FranchiseGrowth #accountancyfranchise

Community action by Biz Australia and Australia’s Governing Body is supporting businesses to face challenges head-on, navigating risks and effectively managing disputes. One enterprise notably taking advantage of these supportive resources is Casa Consortium which is driving digital transformation through deep tech solutions and creating opportunities throughout Australia. Casa Consortium recently underwent an independent audit headed by Haywood S. Coggins, a Chartered Certified Accountant from the United Kingdom; with 18 years of experience under his belt. His expertise played a crucial role in the successful resolution of a case study involving Casa Consortium and Australia’s Governing Body. Biz Australia, while independent from Australia's Governing Body, also extended its sincere appreciation for his steadfast commitment to ensuring business operations continue to run smoothly. When working with Australia's Governing Body, Mr Coggins discovered potential pitfalls related to Casa Consortium's projects which were mitigated effectively. Moreover, he developed robust business sustainability strategies. His keen attention to detail and adept understanding of business strategies benefitted his efforts tremendously, making him a cornerstone in the project’s success. However, the journey was not without hiccups. Casa Consortium encountered its fair share of issues during its financial audit, with particular challenges around coordinating communication and teamwork. But with tools provided by Biz Australia and the guidance of Mr Coggins, these obstacles were addressed and overcome with finesse, proving the value of dedicated effort, strong leadership and strategic decision making. As the economy continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, unprecedented challenges arise as well, many of which require swift action and adjustment for businesses to weather the storm. It's in these times that collaboration becomes crucial, as shown through the cooperative efforts of Casa Consortium, Haywood S. Coggins, Biz Australia, and Australia's Governing Body. Building a business in Australia? It's now easier than ever to register your new business name - simply head to https://register.biz.au. Remember, just as Casa Consortium leaned on the expertise of others, don't be afraid to seek assistance and resources that are available to you. As always, Biz Australia is here to support business growth and evolution throughout Australia. Register your new business name at https://register.biz.au #businessnews #businessaustralia #bizaustralia #biz #businessname #registration

This week, the Shapiro Administration announced three new investments from Irish-based businesses in Pennsylvania, totaling $46 million and creating at least 184 new jobs combined across 3 counties. 🍀 #PAGetsItDone cc: Enterprise Ireland, Aidan McKenna, Rory Power, Marisa Spellman Mannion, Philadelphia's Irish American Business Chamber & Network (IABCN), Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, Declan Barry https://lnkd.in/eJYPpAjr

Australia’s small business sector is sick of being tied up in red tape and squeezed for every cent, and (Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) says the Productivity Commission review is the perfect chance to turn things around. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/g3_nmkey

Australia’s small business sector is sick of being tied up in red tape and squeezed for every cent, and COSBOA (Council of Small Business Organisations Australia) says the Productivity Commission review is the perfect chance to turn things around. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/guk5eDnf Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA)

Scotland’s Top 100 private firms employ 146,000 and generate £40bn in revenue, according to Grant Thornton’s Scotland Ltd 2025 report. https://lnkd.in/eDwyxB3P

"We’ve doubled in size in the last two years, and we want to double in size in Ireland again in the next two years.” In his interview with the Sunday Independent, Xeinadin CEO Derry Crowley discussed trends in the accountancy market, the need for greater supports for SMEs, and how the needs of their clients are changing. Read Derry's full piece here: https://lnkd.in/ej96Tz8p Irish Independent Fearghal O'Connor #Accountancy #BusinessGrowth #SundayIndependent #SME #AccountancyTrends

In his interview with the Sunday Independent, Xeinadin CEO Derry Crowley discussed trends in the accountancy market, the need for greater supports for SMEs, and how the needs of their clients are changing. Read the full article below ⬇️