inspire: financial management

Mike McKenna ACA, Director

Together with Richard Tait, Mike launched inspire in March 2002. Mike previously worked around the region for a number of significant firms prior to developing one of his own.

Mike has a significant client base which stretches to the south east of England and specialises in taxation planning (corporate and personal) as well as business strategy and corporate finance.

In addition, Mike is a specialist in advising regulated business, particularly insurance and financial services.

When not at work, Mike and his wife Alison have their hands full looking after their four (yes, four!) daughters aged between one and thirteen. Mike also follows the mighty Sunderland AFC at home and sometimes away (but never abroad!). Mike lives in Hartlepool and is learning to play golf.

Richard Tait FCCA, Director

Richard launched inspire together with Mike McKenna in March 2002. Richard had previously worked in both national and regional practices advising owner managed businesses.

Richard looks after a diverse client base covering the north east and north west and also advises businesses based in Europe.

Specialising in business strategy and planning, Richard also has significant experience as an all round business adviser in both private and public sector.

Away from the office most of Richard's time is taken up by family life in Whickham, Newcastle upon Tyne. Together with his wife, Joanne, they look after their two young daughters, a dog, two cats and a rabbit! Richard always finds time, however, to watch Newcastle United and has a keen interest in food and wine. He also professes to play golf, however most would question the use of the word "play".

Anne Moorhouse, Client Adviser

Anne joined inspire in May 2003 as the client base expanded. Anne has over 20 years experience within the profession advising both personal and corporate clients.

At inspire Anne advises a growing portfolio of clients together with managing the processes for tax and Vat return filing, business planning work and Sage training. Anne is also developing inspires e-filing capabilities to ensure we stay ahead in the ever-changing government gateway.

Outside of work Anne enjoys all sports, dressmaking and reading. She can also be found socialising in Darlington where she lives with her son.

Mark Harding BA (Hons) ACA, Client Adviser

Mark joined the inspire team briefly in January 2004 before setting off on a six month round the world trip. He rejoined the team in November 2004 and is still paying back his holiday entitlement!

Mark has worked around the region advising clients on business planning issues including management information and financial forecasting. Mark is also an experienced auditor and manages inspires accounts preparation and management accounts functions.

Mark enjoys football (the mighty 'Boro!), is a distinguished golfer and likes nothing better than a snowboarding holiday with his wife Nina.

Dee Gilman AAT, Associate

Due to the growth we have experienced, we recruited Dee to assist with the delivery of accountancy and payroll services to our clients.

Dee worked within the electronics and food industries for over ten years before moving to pursue a career in accountancy with inspire. Dee has quickly gained a sound understanding of inspire's service driven approach to client delivery.

When at home, Dee is keen to test her creativity around the house with her passion for interior design. Dee also enjoys getting stuck into a good crime novel or a crime story on TV.

Claire Hurworth ACA, Associate

Claire joined us in May 2004 to assist in developing our financial control business. Claire has previously worked in a "top 4" and large regional practice, together with 5 years experience in industry before taking on contract work.

All this has made Claire a sound all rounder who delivers financial control and assurance services to our clients in the Tees Valley area.

Claire has a young family which takes up most of her spare time; although when she has a moment to herself she enjoys walking, swimming, reading and visiting the cinema - but not all at the same time!

Sarah Thompson BA (Hons), Marketing Manager

Sarah joined inspire in September 2005 having graduated from Northumbria University in July. Sarah is originally from Cumbria but decided to stay in the region after university. Sarah is a full time marketing manager with inspire which shows our commitment to understanding what our clients want and striving to achieve it.

Sarah's experience within marketing and public relations comes from her extensive studies on both the marketing pathway of a business degree and the Institute of Direct Marketing Certificate in Direct Marketing Principles. Sarah also gained valuable practical experience working for a design house in London. Sarah is currently studying for the Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Postgraduate Diploma in the evenings.

Out of work Sarah is mainly found socialising in Newcastle, walking the fells in the Lake District and enjoying good food, cheese and wine. Sarah is also a keen runner, taking part in the Great North Run and local charity events.