Emma
Shields

WHO I HELP

GP practices. Family-owned businesses. SMEs. Architects. Builders. Property rental businesses. Trade services within the construction industry.

HOW I HELP

Statutory accounts. Management accounts. VAT returns. Training and overseeing team members. Managing accounting records. Preparing medical accounts. Providing regular reports to track profitability and partners’ positions.

“PEOPLE KNOW THEY CAN COUNT ON ME TO GET THINGS DONE “

Based in our Bolton office, Emma Shields is a highly skilled Business Advisory Manager who supports a wide range of clients, from GP practices and family-owned businesses to architects, builders, property rental businesses, and trade services within the construction industry.

Her role is diverse. One week might involve preparing statutory accounts for limited companies and management accounts for SMEs. The next could see her reviewing VAT returns, training team members, and ensuring records are kept accurate and compliant. She also specialises in healthcare, overseeing GP practice accounts, managing a dedicated “doctors’ team,” and preparing specialist medical accounts. With experience in both technical compliance and forward-looking advisory, Emma combines accuracy with insight to help her clients make better financial decisions.

Beyond her client work, Emma is passionate about supporting the next generation of accountants. She spends time training and mentoring junior colleagues, making sure they feel confident in their work and can continue to deliver great results for clients.

MORE THAN JUST AN ACCOUNTANT

“I see myself as more than just an accountant. I aim to be a trusted partner in my clients’ journey. Whether it’s a GP practice, a growing SME, or a family-run business, I focus on understanding their goals and providing tailored, practical advice that makes a difference.”

“My strength lies in my ability to blend technical expertise with strong client relationships. I am approachable, friendly, and reliable – qualities that mean clients know they can count on me to deliver. I have a talent for spotting opportunities within the numbers, helping clients make sense of financial data so they can see the bigger picture.”

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

“I believe the best client relationships are built on trust and open communication. Taking the time to listen and understand a client’s goals, challenges, and ambitions allows me to provide advice that’s not only practical and relevant, but also tailored to their individual circumstances. I aim to be approachable and reliable, so clients know they can turn to me for honest guidance and support whenever they need it.”

“PARTNERING WITH YOU FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS.”

“I once worked with a client who had just started a small business and was struggling to keep up with bookkeeping while focusing on growth. At first, they were unsure how much support they really needed.

I built the relationship by being proactive-regularly checking in, providing clear explanations, and offering simple solutions to keep their finances organised. Over time, the client built confidence and trust.

The relationship worked because I focused on being reliable, approachable, and genuinely invested in their success. Over time, they came to see me as not just an accountant, but a partner in helping their business grow.”

ADAPTING & EVOLVING

“In accountancy, regulations and technology are always changing. I embrace this by staying up to date, making the most of tools like Xero, and exploring new opportunities such as AI and Power BI. This allows me to offer clients both accuracy and innovative ways to interpret their financial data.”

MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS

“There’s a common misconception that business advisers only step in when things go wrong. My role is far more dynamic and forward-looking.

Business advisory is about much more than offering solutions, it’s about understanding the bigger picture. Whether it’s improving performance, exploring new markets, streamlining operations, or planning for the future, I’m here to provide practical insights and strategic guidance. What excites me most is seeing the positive impact this has on clients’ businesses and proving that advisory is not just reactive support, but a proactive partnership.”

TEAM SPIRIT

“At AAB, I enjoy being part of a supportive and collaborative team. I bring a positive, can-do attitude, which helps keep the team motivated even when things get tough. Together, we deliver the best outcomes for our clients.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

“I am excited about the future of accountancy. I’m eager to see how AI and data analytics can be used to provide even deeper insights for clients, and I am developing strategic advisory skills to move further beyond compliance. What motivates me most, though, is seeing my clients succeed. It’s always satisfying to know you’ve played even a small part in a client’s growth journey.”