Rising Johnston Carmichael star takes Scottish Young Accountant of the Year title

Inverurie-based Kayleigh Milne of Johnston Carmichael has been named Young Accountant of the Year at the Scottish Accountancy and Finance Awards following a string of world-leading exam successes.

A graduate of Aberdeen University, currently working in the Inverurie office of accountancy firm Johnston Carmichael, Ms Milne received the award at a ceremony held at Glasgow’s Grand Central Hotel last week.

It follow’s her success in March when she was awarded a Gold Medal by ACCA Vice-President Jenny Gu at an event held to mark International Women’s Day.

The Medal recognised Ms Milne’s achievement of receiving the highest worldwide aggregate score across all five of ACCA’s professional level exams in December.

Earlier in the year, she also recorded the highest mark in the world for her P3 exams out of 14,515 candidates.

Speaking in the wake of her latest success, Ms Milne said: “Receiving this award was an incredible feeling and I was genuinely touched to be recognised by the Scottish accountancy profession. Given how strong the shortlist was, it came as a genuine surprise.

“Working towards my ACCA Qualification whilst working is a tough journey, so I really appreciate the support of the team at ACCA Scotland and Johnston Carmichael.

“Of course I’d also like to thank my mum and dad who have supported me every step of the way.’

Craig Vickery, head of ACCA Scotland, said: “This is another great achievement for Kayleigh, in a year of remarkable success. This award really points towards the world-leading nature of the next generation of finance talent in Scotland. It also shows that this is a profession which rewards those with the ambition and hard-work to succeed.

“I wish Kayleigh the very best of luck as she continues in her career. She is a great example to young accountants around the world.”

Iain Abernethy, head of learning and development at Johnston Carmichael, added: “This is another great success for Kayleigh. She continues to make the staff and partners at Johnston Carmichael extremely proud. Given her tremendous attitude to her work and studies, it is wonderful to see that dedication recognised by the profession in Scotland.

“As with all of our newly qualified staff, Kayleigh is at an important stage and we look forward to supporting her personal and professional development over the coming years, providing challenges and opportunities along the way.”