Kennedy Accountancy, based in Auchtertyre, Lochalsh, achieved major recognition at the 2024 Accounting Excellence Awards, winning two significant accolades. In addition to being named small firm of the year for Scotland, north of England, and Northern Ireland, the firm was awarded the coveted UK small firm of the year (Grand Prix). The awards were presented at a ceremony on Tuesday 8th October at the Roundhouse in London. Led by founder and director Karen Kennedy, the firm was praised by the judges for its outstanding commitment to growth, team development, client service, and community involvement. The judging panel said: “Building a practice based around growth, team, client service and community, Kennedy Accountancy is dedicated to ensuring business owners in their local community build prosperous and rewarding businesses. “The judges were particularly impressed by the firm’s love of its local community. From local business community open days to nurturing young talent, Kennedy...

Jess Hartwell It was a successful night for two female-led Highlands and Islands businesses at the recent Womens’ Enterprise Scotland awards in Glasgow. Jess Hartwell, MD of Waternish-based Skyeskyns, picked up ‘Family Business Champion of the Year’, while StrategyStory MD and former WHFP columnist, Kate Hooper, scooped the gong for ‘Business to Watch of the Year’.  The awards celebrate Scotland’s finest women-led businesses across the country, shining a spotlight on the innovation, resilience and impact of female entrepreneurs.  Skyeskyns is a well-known business on Skye, established over 40 years ago by Jess’s parents, and now a successful traditional and sustainable tannery and visitor attraction with two shops on the island.  Jess said: “I was incredibly honoured to bring home the Women’s Enterprise Scotland award for Family Business Champion last week. A massive thank you to the real family champion, my incredible Mum, Lydia, and the rest of my amazing family who...