Mike
Fenwick

WHO I HELP

Owner-managed businesses. SMEs. Lower mid-market companies. Business owners Clients navigating business sales, acquisitions, shareholder disputes, funding requirements, and strategic growth opportunities. 

HOW I HELP

Corporate finance advisory. Grant advisory support. Strategic business advice. Managing transactions from initial discussions through to completion. Supporting shareholder negotiations. Delivering commercially focused guidance. Providing analytical and practical advice.  

SECTORS/SUPPORT

All sectors.

“It’s all about adding value and making a difference.” 

Mike Fenwick is a Corporate Finance Director at AAB, specialising in corporate finance and grant advisory work for owner-managed businesses and SMEs. With more than 30 years of experience, Mike combines strong analytical expertise with commercial awareness to help businesses navigate transactions, strategic decisions, and complex commercial challenges. Known for his people skills, pragmatic advice, and relationship-focused approach, Mike works closely with clients to become a trusted adviser, supporting them through every stage of the business journey.  

A CAREER BUILT ON ADVISORY 

“I qualified as a Chartered Accountant, knowing that I wanted to move away from traditional audit and tax work and focus on advisory services instead. Corporate finance and grant advisory work appealed to me because it offered the opportunity to work closely with businesses, support strategic decision-making, and make a tangible difference to clients and their outcomes.  

Over the course of more than 30 years working in corporate finance and advisory roles, I’ve developed strong analytical skills alongside broad commercial awareness across a wide range of industries. That experience allows me to support clients not only with the technical aspects of a transaction, but also with the wider commercial considerations that influence business decisions and long-term objectives.” 

Delivering Commercial, Relationship-Led Advice 

“My time is often spent speaking with clients and prospective clients, attending internal meetings, reviewing work produced by the wider Corporate Finance team, managing live mandates, and supporting ongoing transactions. A large part of the role also involves maintaining regular communication with clients and advisers to ensure projects continue progressing efficiently. And, of course, there is always plenty of coffee involved as well.” 

Making a Positive Impact 

“The most satisfying aspect of my role is achieving successful outcomes for clients and knowing that the advice and support we provide has genuinely made a difference. Transactions are often significant milestones for business owners, so being able to help guide them through those situations and reach a positive resolution is incredibly rewarding.  

One recent example involved supporting a client who was in dispute with another shareholder, where communication had completely broken down and the future of the business was at risk. Working closely with all parties involved, we were able to negotiate an agreement that allowed the other shareholder to buy out our client, enabling the business to continue trading successfully. Helping clients navigate difficult situations like that and finding practical solutions is a huge part of what makes the role rewarding.  

I also really value being part of a wider team where there is always support and expertise available when needed. Having experienced colleagues across different disciplines means we can collaborate effectively and provide clients with broader, more joined-up advice throughout a transaction or advisory process.” 

Commitment & Dedication 

“Building strong relationships with clients is one of the most important aspects of my role. I’ve learned over the years that becoming a trusted adviser is something that develops through open and honest communication, consistency, and understanding each client as an individual. Every business and every client is different, so it’s important to adapt your approach to each situation.  

One thing I always try to do when building relationships with new clients is have conversations beyond just work. Getting to know someone personally, whether that’s discussing their weekend plans, holidays, or interests outside of business, it helps build stronger rapport and trust over time.” 

MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE 

“The greatest compliment I’ve received from clients is hearing that they appreciated the hard work and advice we provided and that we genuinely made a positive difference to their situation. For me, that is ultimately what advisory work is all about.” 

A Compassionate Approach 

“One of the biggest challenges early in my career was qualifying as a Chartered Accountant while balancing full-time work alongside studying during evenings and weekends. It required discipline, resilience, and commitment, but it also taught me the importance of hard work and adaptability, lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career.  

Over time, I’ve also learned that managing client relationships is just as important as the technical side of advisory work. Every client communicates differently and responds differently under pressure, so understanding people and adapting your approach accordingly is essential. Building trusted relationships and maintaining honest communication, whether delivering good news or difficult conversations, is a fundamental part of helping clients effectively.” 

Tackling the Challenges 

“One of the biggest challenges within corporate finance advisory is managing people and expectations throughout transactions and advisory processes. Every client is different, and often the most important part of the role is maintaining strong communication, building trust, and helping clients navigate uncertainty confidently.  

The profession is also evolving rapidly, particularly with the rise of AI and emerging technologies. Like many people within the industry, I’m interested in understanding how AI can help streamline some of the day-to-day administrative and transactional tasks, allowing advisers to spend more time focusing on strategic and relationship-led support for clients.” 

MORE THAN CORPERATE FINANCE 

“And finally, if there’s one misconception I’d love to challenge about the profession, it’s the idea that accountants are boring. Outside of work, I play guitar in a band, so there’s more to us than spreadsheets and numbers.”