Founded in 2021, Chadwick Accountants has grown rapidly from a start-up practice to a team of 16 supporting more than 600 clients. Turnover has increased from £110,000 to £640,000 in just three years, driven by a people-first approach and a focus on proactive, strategic financial leadership rather than traditional compliance-only services.

Rachael’s route into accountancy was unconventional. She did not pursue higher education straight from school, instead studying part-time while building her career across banking, property and social care. This experience shaped a leadership style rooted in empathy, commercial insight and real-world understanding.

The firm now delivers a full range of services, from bookkeeping and tax to strategic financial direction, and is known for embedding finance at the heart of decision-making. A flagship client transformation programme for a 150-person consultancy led to a 70% reduction in debtor days and over £4 million in funding secured, winning Change Programme of the Year 2025 at the Women in Change Awards.

Employee development underpins the People First nomination, with fully funded qualifications, apprenticeships, coaching and wellbeing support. Beyond the practice, Rachael hosts the FFS – For Finances Sake podcast, providing free, accessible financial advice to business owners.

Commenting on the nominations, Rachael said: “These finalist places reflect our team and our values. We’ve built a business where people and performance grow together.”