Old Mill accountants and financial planners have been selected as finalists in the South West Rural Business Awards, reflecting their high level of professional services.
The firm, which employs 250 staff in four West Country offices, specialises in the rural sector, and was shortlisted in the Professional Services Business category.
“We are thrilled to have been shortlisted and it’s a credit to our team that we are able to provide such a tailored service to our rural clients,” said Ben Carter, rural business partner at Old Mill. Knowing the ins-and-outs of the rural community is an integral aspect of the business, so that advisers can best meet clients’ needs. “Within our staff we have 20 young farmers, 30 ex-young farmers, three working farmers and 10 farmers’ wives, with most of the remaining staff coming from a farming background.
“We understand that communication and connectivity can be difficult in some rural areas and go the extra mile when it comes to clients – visiting and picking up records when communication or travel is difficult,” he added. “We’ve even had instances of staff travelling into the office on their tractors if the road is blocked with snow.”
As well as providing the highest quality of service to its customers, Old Mill is also passionate about ensuring that employees have excellent career opportunities that will help them develop professionally and personally. “We are always seeking to give back to the rural community, and our staff will usually be right where our clients are, whether that’s in the show ring or championing British farming,” explained Mr Carter. “We all have the same interests and enthusiasm for the welfare and success of the industry.”
The Rural Business Awards is now entering its 4th year after first being held in 2015 and has played a big role in recognising the achievements of rural businesses, from engineering to artisan food producers and professional services organisations. The aim of the awards is to develop a strong network and community of rural business owners.
Rural Business Awards co-founder Anna Price said: “We have named Old Mill as a regional finalist because they have a strong track record and extensive experience in the rural sector. We were impressed with the firm’s commitment to the sector, delivering excellent customer service and supporting the community in which they operate. We wish them every success.”
After the second round of judging, the South West winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at Bath Racecourse on Thursday 18 October. Regional category winners will then go through to the Grand Final on February 28, 2019. “We are just honoured to be shortlisted,” said Mr Carter. “Whatever the outcome our goals remain the same: To help make our clients more successful.”