Meet the team
Technology-driven, forward-thinking accountants
Experienced accountants working alongside modern technology, providing a fresh approach to accounting.
Matt McConnell
Managing Director/ CEO
I've been in the industry for 17 years, leading Pulse since 2013. My role involves managing operations, tax planning, and using technology to grow the business. I work with various sectors like finance, retail, construction, and healthcare. My skills are development of tools and assets, such as bespoke reporting for clients using powerful excel & googlesheet assets we have created & tax planning for SME’s and business owners. I was a manager of a small local accountancy practice prior to starting the business at 23 years old.
Rachael McConnell
Payroll Director
With 6.5 years of industry experience, I've been with Pulse since the beginning. As a qualified Level 3 Chartered Manager and an Advanced Payroll Technician, my main focus involves overseeing various sectors and services within the firm. Prior to joining Pulse, I gained experience in the retail sector and financial management roles. Additionally, I hold a certificate of exemplary service from Durham Constabulary.
Shelby Raine
Payroll Manager
With seven years of industry experience, I've dedicated 7.5 years to Pulse, where I've served as a qualified payroll technician and Level 3 business administrator. My primary responsibilities include managing payrolls on a weekly and monthly basis, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in processing. I transitioned directly from college to the company, bringing a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to my role.
Lisa Baker
Client Liaison Manager/ HR Controller
With 26 years in the industry and 6 years at Pulse, my role revolves around managing approximately 130 clients within my team, ensuring their accounting needs are met and maintaining strong client relationships. As an FMAAT and FCCA qualified professional, I oversee tasks such as reviewing and preparing financial year-end accounts, VAT returns, and HMRC correspondence. I also handle HR responsibilities, authorising staff holidays and absences, and staying updated on employment law. Prior to Pulse, I started my career at a local accountancy firm straight out of 6th form, gradually advancing through promotions and changing firms until joining the Pulse team in 2018.
Gareth Welsh
Client Liaison/ Business Development Lead
With 8 years of industry experience, I've recently joined Pulse, having been with the company for less than a year. As an ACA qualified professional, my main focus involves reviewing and preparing financial year-end accounts, as well as VAT returns. Additionally, I actively participate in business development and networking meetings to attract new clients to the firm. I serve as the direct point of contact for clients, offering advice on accounting matters and ensuring their satisfaction with our services. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are integral to my role, along with handling HMRC correspondence on behalf of our clients. Prior to joining Pulse, I started my career at Pullan Barnes, which was later acquired by Azets, and subsequently worked at TC Murray and Lamb until January 2024.
Emma Nolan
Admin
Beth Hope
Accounts Preparer/ Customer Experience Manager
With 8.5 years of industry experience, I've dedicated the same amount of time to Pulse. Holding qualifications in AAT Level 3 and ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting, and Business (CFAB), my main focus revolves around co-managing approximately 130 clients within my team, ensuring their accounting needs are met and maintaining strong client relationships. This involves tasks such as reviewing and preparing financial year-end accounts, VAT returns, and monthly management accounts for specific clients, while also overseeing credit control. I handle HMRC correspondence on behalf of clients, ensure timely deadlines, assist junior team members with training, and prioritise customer experience. My journey began straight from sixth form college to Pulse, where I underwent AAT training.
Caicy McConnell
Accounting Technician/ Bookkeeper
With 3 years of industry experience, I've spent the entirety of those years at Pulse. Holding an AAT Level 2 Qualification, my main focus revolves around tasks such as preparing VAT returns, conducting general bookkeeping when required, and providing analysis for tax returns. I came straight to the company after leaving school.
Jordan Howe
Client Liaison/ Quality Controller
With 6 years of experience spent at Pulse, I hold qualifications as an MAAT & CFAB. My primary focus involves reviewing all year-end and management accounts for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with relevant accounting standards. Additionally, I implement efficient financial reporting systems for clients, oversee a portfolio of 150+ clients mainly in the construction sector, and serve as their direct point of contact for accounting advice and satisfaction assurance. I also mentor junior team members, emphasising attention to detail, organisational skills, and effective communication. Prior to joining Pulse, I studied Accounting and Finance at the University of Leeds and gained 5 years of experience in the hospitality sector.
Nigel Hewitt
Management Accountant/ Financial Controller
With 39 years of industry experience, I've been at Pulse for 4 years. My primary focus involves utilising my CIMA Cert BA qualification for tasks such as forecasting, cashflows, and management reporting, including KPIs, for both external clients and internally at Pulse. Additionally, I handle debt management, supplier payments, budget management, and cashflow for Pulse. Prior to joining Pulse, I began my career in the Legal Sector before transitioning to Accountancy Practice. Eventually, I moved into the Industrial Sector, where I spent 34 years working across various businesses encompassing Construction, Passenger Transport, Logistics & Warehousing, Recruitment, and Commercial Vehicle Services.
Ryan Waites
Accounting Technician/ Bookkeeper/ CIS Manager
With 5 years of industry experience, all of which have been with Pulse, my main focus encompasses various accounting responsibilities. I handle general bookkeeping for 9 high-end clients on a weekly basis, prepare monthly VAT returns for multiple clients, and manage CIS deductions for over 100 clients. Additionally, I draft workpapers for 10 clients monthly as an Assistant Management Accountant, prepare accounts to draft stage for review, and co-manage the accounts for a Garden Room Construction Business. I also handle general tasks like contacting HMRC and chasing refunds. Furthermore, I am AAT Level 3 qualified. Prior to joining Pulse, I accrued 4 years of experience as a Software Engineer.
Ben Mason
Accounts Preparer
With 4.5 years of industry experience, I've spent my entire career of 4.5 years at Pulse. My primary responsibilities include preparing and finalising year-end accounts, general bookkeeping, reviewing VAT returns, and completing monthly management accounts for specific clients. I also handle tasks like contacting HMRC regarding client queries and ensuring all deadlines are met accurately and promptly. Currently, I hold a Level 3 AAT qualification, soon to be upgraded to Level 4 in August/September 2024. Prior to joining Pulse, I gained 2 years of experience in the retail sector.
Tim Johnson
CTA Msc - Tax Consultant
I’m a Chartered Tax Adviser with 17 years of experience, specialising in helping small to medium-sized businesses, their owners, and teams achieve positive financial outcomes. My role is to guide business owners in securing the maximum cash for their business by making the most of tax allowances, deductions, incentives, reliefs, and savings. I’m truly passionate about tax – not something you hear every day, I know!
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Phone: 01325 522123
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