They marked the milestone by inviting clients, old and new, and other local businesses to a celebratory event at The Cellar Theatre at Lawrence Batley Theatre on 29th June.
Sheards is one of the leading accountancy firms in Kirklees. It was founded in 1903 by Fred Sheard and the company still bears his name. He was joined by his two sons Ernest and Percy, who were trained by their father and the firm became Fred Sheard & Sons. Fred Sheard died in 1931, aged 58 and Ernest and Percy continued the family firm. In the 1950's they were joined by Fredrick Sheard, son of Ernest, and Michael Dyson, becoming Chartered Accountants.
In 1985, Sheards current Director, Carolyn Atkinson joined Sheards and in 1987 the firm moved out of Kirkgate Buildings, to the current location at Vernon House. Pat Messenger, the firm's longest-standing accountant, joined the Sheards fold in 1989 and a week later, Kevin Winterburn was taken on as an apprentice. Sheards remained in family ownership until 2002 when Kevin and Carolyn took over the reins as directors of the firm.
The two current directors boast a combined service of 72 years. Carolyn Atkinson celebrated her 38th year with the firm this year and Kevin Winterburn also recently celebrated his 33rd work anniversary. Sheards now have 18 staff and have grown significantly over recent years.
The working world has come a long way over the last three decades. The digital revolution and cloud accounting has transformed the way accountancy firms operate. Today, Sheards offer a wide range of accountancy services which embrace digital and cloud-based technologies, saving customers valuable time.
Sheards pride themselves on being the friendly face of accounting helping business owners throughout Huddersfield, Kirklees and West Yorkshire to scale their businesses through professional accountancy, business advice, management accounts, payroll and audits.
Carolyn who has served as President of the Huddersfield & District Society of Chartered Accountants says:
“It is such a privilege to be continuing the business that Fred Sheard founded way back in 1903. I am so proud of our team here at Sheards. We have a high number of staff who have been with the business for over 10 years, some spanning three decades, which is certainly something to shout about! Most of our team are local, born and bred in the Huddersfield area and we pride ourselves in our recruitment and retention even being shortlisted in “The Best Employer” category at the Yorkshire Accountancy Awards one year.”
Kevin Winterburn added:
“We have really good relationships with our clients and the local businesses in our community. We felt privileged that so many of them came along on the night to celebrate this milestone with us. We're proud of our commitment to the community and to local charities, having supported many local charities including The Welcome Centre and The Lawrence Batley Theatre.”
Sheards pride themselves on client feedback and one client Michael Wynn, Director at Park View Project Management Ltd, who attended their milestone celebration event commented:
“They've helped my business grow, restructure and overcome business challenges. It's like having someone in the company keeping us compliant and advising us. Sheards have a wealth of experience and take care of all your business needs in a professional and friendly manner. They really are the friendly face of accountancy.”