Meet the team

Technology-driven, forward-thinking accountants

Experienced accountants working alongside modern technology, providing a fresh approach to accounting. 

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Matt McConnell FMAAT

Managing Director/ CEO

19 years of experience
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Matt McConnell FMAAT

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.

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Rachael McConnell CIPP

Head Of People

15 years of experience
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Rachael McConnell CIPP

Head Of People

With 15 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.

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Shelby Raine

Payroll Manager

9 years of experience
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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.

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Lisa Baker FMATT/FCCA

Client Liaison Manager/ HR Controller

30 years of experience
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Lisa Baker FMATT/FCCA

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.

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Gareth Welsh

Client Liaison/ Business Development Lead

10 years of experience
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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.

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Emma Nolan

Admin

9 years of experience
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Emma Nolan

Admin

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Beth Hope

Accounts Preparer/ Customer Experience Manager

10 years of experience
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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.

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Caicy McConnell

Accounting Technician/ Bookkeeper

5 years of experience
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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.

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Jordan Howe MAAT

Client Liaison/ Quality Controller

8 years of experience
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Jordan Howe MAAT

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.

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Nigel Hewitt CIMA Cert BA

Management Accountant/ Financial Controller

42 years of experience
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Nigel Hewitt CIMA Cert BA

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.

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Ryan Waites

Accounting Technician/ Bookkeeper/ CIS Manager

7 years of experience
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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.

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Ben Mason

Accounts Preparer

6 years of experience
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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.

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Mark Leighton FCCA MAAT BSc BA (Hons)

Operations Director

25 years of experience
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Mark Leighton FCCA MAAT BSc BA (Hons)

Operations Director

I am an FCCA‑qualified Chartered Certified Accountant and MAAT accounting technician.I also hold honours degrees in Economics (BA) and Applied Accounting (BSc).With 25 years of experience developing small businesses, I bring deep commercial insight.I’ve supported sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies across multiple sectors.I specialise in strengthening financial systems, controls, and operational processes.My analytical background enables clear, data‑driven decision‑making and strategic planning.I have a strong track record of improving efficiency, profitability, and operational resilience.I excel at turning financial understanding into practical, scalable operational solutions.My approach is hands‑on, pragmatic, and focused on sustainable long‑term growth.As Operations Director, I draw on my experience to drive excellence across the organisation.

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David Patterson BA (Hons), ACCA

Senior Accountant / Business Advisor

8 years of experience
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David Patterson BA (Hons), ACCA

Senior Accountant / Business Advisor

I recently joined Pulse as a Senior Accountant & Business Advisor. I’ve been working in the industry for 8 years with previous roles across an array of specialisms including accounts preparation, tax planning, vat and providing management information. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and using my business background to offer key insights and advisory services. I completed my ACCA qualification in December 2023 and I’m currently working towards adding my CTA qualification so I can specialise in providing valuable tax advice to my portfolio of clients.

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Katy Proctor

Sales & Marketing Executive

4 years of experience
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Katy Proctor

Sales & Marketing Executive

As Sales & Marketing , I play a key role in driving the growth of the business by connecting Pulse Accountants with the right clients and ensuring every interaction reflects our values and expertise. I am responsible for managing incoming enquiries, nurturing prospective clients, and proactively reaching out to new opportunities. From first contact through to onboarding, I ensure the client journey is smooth, professional, and welcoming, setting the foundation for strong, long-term relationships. Alongside sales, I lead the company’s marketing activity, shaping how the brand is presented both online and in person. This includes managing our social media presence, coordinating marketing campaigns, attending networking events, and supporting wider business development initiatives. My focus is on increasing visibility, strengthening relationships, and supporting sustainable growth for the firm.

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Tim Johnson

CTA Msc - Tax Consultant

19 years of experience
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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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Contact us

Meeting

Book in some time with our friendly advisors to chat through any questions you have.



Phone

We’re available from 9am-5:30pm Monday to Friday. Our offices are closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Phone: 01325 522123



Email

Send us an email or fill out the form. Someone will be in touch as soon as possible.

Help@pulse-accountants.co.uk

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Location

Head Office

Units 8 & 9,
Parsons Court,
Welbury Way,
Newton Aycliffe
DL5 6ZE

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