Winning not only the Small Firm of the Year for Scotland, North of England and Northern Ireland, it also won the coveted UK Small Firm of the Year (Grand Prix). The accolades were presented at a ceremony held on Tuesday 8 October at the Roundhouse in London.

Judges praised the firm, led by Karen Kennedy CA, for “building a practice based around growth, team, client service and community”, saying the firm “dedicated to ensuring business owners in their local community build prosperous and rewarding businesses”, and highlighted “the firm’s love of its local community”.

The judging panel added: “From local business community open days to nurturing young talent, Kennedy Accountancy’s sense of community shines.

“All of our finalists showed a clear commitment to client care, improving efficiencies and the quality of their service and demonstrating real growth over the past 12 months, but Kennedy Accountancy stood out.”

Speaking about the recognition, Ms Kennedy said: “I am over the moon. It is important to get the Highlands on the map whenever we can, and it makes me proud that we were on the stage in London at UK awards last Tuesday.

“The win wasn’t just for us, it was for our clients and our community. I’m particularly happy that we were recognised for nurturing local talent—especially at a time when most young people are moving to the cities for career opportunities.

“It’s crucial that we provide training in the workplace that allows them to stay in the area and gain professional qualifications.”

Ms Kennedy, along with team members Carrie Gill, Kaya Bone, Andrew Sneddon, and Erica Fowler attended the ceremony in London, where they celebrated the firm’s achievements and proudly represented the Highlands on a national stage.