Chloe Leslie

This accolade recognises emerging leaders and innovators in the Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire areas. A celebratory AYP event will be held on 14 September at award sponsors Namaste Delhi in Aberdeen’s Bridge Street to acknowledge the achievements.

Ms Leslie joined Aberdeen-based Infinity as an accounts assistant in 2018 and, within just five years, is now a client relationship associate overseeing her own diverse client portfolio, which covers a host of sectors from energy to tech start-ups.

She advises, assists and ensures accounting compliance for over 70 clients, acting as a virtual finance director for a £6 million turnover client and managing another £9m turnover client.

Ms Leslie recently stepped up to acting manager to cover a colleague’s period of maternity leave and support business growth plans.

She also worked with Greg Houston, Infinity associate director, on the firm’s digital transformation, creating cloud-based solutions to streamline processes for both staff and clients. This new software saves 30% on job preparation time, giving this time back to clients.

Ms Leslie has a special aptitude for mentoring and developing others, fully training one university graduate, and overseeing four more. Currently in the final stages of ACCA qualification, once she passes her exams, she will be a chartered accountant.

Mr Houston, who nominated Ms Leslie for the accolade, praised her hard work and determination.

He said: “Chloe operates at a level far beyond my expectations and her years of experience. She has propelled through the ranks at Infinity and is an inspiring role model for others.

“She aspires to become a member of the Infinity management team and there is no doubt the future is bright for Chloe. She is achieving great things for herself, the firm, and also helping to influence the next generation.”

Ms Leslie, who attended Peterhead Academy and still lives in the town, was thrilled with the recognition.

She said: “I’m was delighted to be nominated for the AYP accolade, let alone be successful in getting onto the list.

“I love what I do and I’m passionate about my career aspirations at Infinity. To have that hard work recognised in this way is brilliant.”

AYP said the list is “an extraordinary showcase of talent, ambition, and limitless potential. We wish to present an exceptional group of young achievers who have risen to prominence and are leaving an indelible mark on our community and beyond”.

Simon Cowie, Infinity managing partner, is also in the running for a top accolade. He has been named a finalist at the 2023 Accounting Excellence Awards in the Practice Leader of the Year category. The winners will be announced at The Roundhouse in Camden, London, on 3 October.