Introducing Professional Practice specialist, Cathryn McDowell

We have a broad range of specialist accountants and financial experts at Chadwick & Company, with very diverse industry experience and knowledge. One of our Directors, Cathryn McDowell has been with the company since 1989 – six years after it was founded by Michael Chadwick. Over that time Cathryn has become the sector specialist for professional practice.

Cathryn initially joined as a Junior Audit Clerk and was promoted to Audit Manager in 2000. In 2002 she became a  member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and was admitted as a Fellow in 2007. An integral part of the company’s success story, Cathryn was appointed a Director of Chadwick & Company in February 2012.

Expert audit

As one of our Senior Statutory Auditors, Cathryn is responsible for managing audits for companies with turnovers ranging from £300,000 to £17 million. We can be asked to prepare accounts and perform audits for all types of business, including sole traders, partnerships and limited liability companies in any business sector. When an audit is carried out, Cathryn will ascertain an accurate account of a company’s true financial position. She will use the opportunity to identify any potential areas of weakness in the business and advise on appropriate remedial action. As part of the audit, we also provide professional documentation which can form the basis for future finance applications and reports. Cathryn works as a Responsible Individual alongside our other Senior Statutory Auditors, Michael Chadwick, Tracey Connor and Mike Royal. Cathryn ensures the overall image and reputation of the businesses she works with are enhanced through a professionally prepared set of accounts, which are fully compliant with all statutory requirements.

30 years’ experience

Cathryn has almost 30 years’ experience managing manufacturing, retail, wholesale, corporate and non-corporate businesses, but has a special interest in professional practice. Over the years, Cathryn has built up extensive experience within the professional service sector, working as a trusted advisor to local firms of solicitors, architects and insurance brokers. Cathryn currently manages our portfolio of local professional services firms.

Comprehensive sector knowledge

During her career, she has gained experience in general accounting, auditing, tax mitigation and business management. She understands the importance of business owners engaging an accounting firm that has comprehensive knowledge of their industry and its regulatory requirements – for example, ensuring solicitors’ financial accounts adhere to the Solicitors Regulation Authority guidelines. Cathryn’s specialist knowledge means she can confidently advise on this complex area and her extensive business management experience provides ongoing guidance, helping her clients run competitive and successful practices.

Away from the office, Cathryn enjoys trips to the cinema and theatre, reading and walking. She is also a Manchester City season ticket holder. Cathryn completed the Country Walking #walk1000miles in July 2019, raising £2,458 for Willow Wood Hospice in Ashton-under-Lyne and £765 for Oldham Mountain Rescue Team.

If you have any questions about accountancy for professional practice, you can email or call Cathryn on 0161 370 9600.