Video: Financial Reporting Changes – Next steps for businesses
2 mins
Debbie Jakeman is an Audit and Business Advisory Partner based in Mercer & Hole’s Milton Keynes office. Debbie has a vast amount of experience working with a wide range of clients, from small sole traders to FTSE 100-listed companies, including PE-backed, owner-managed, and family-owned businesses. Whilst she works primarily with both UK subsidiaries of overseas groups and UK-based international groups, Debbie also enjoys working with a variety of different business types.
Debbie began her career going from trainee to manager at PwC, before spending several years working in industry for international groups, which provided a new perspective and valuable understanding of the dynamics of what’s important to both management and the information auditors require. She then spent six years at Grant Thornton, going from a senior manager role to becoming Audit Director.
When it comes to client relationships, what Debbie values most is approachability and collaboration. Debbie ensures her clients always feel they can pick up the phone for a chat. For her, audit is not simply about the year end or statutory accounts – she is available for her clients all year round, and enjoys hearing about what is going on in the businesses and lives of her clients, helping them think ahead about what they may need to focus on in the future.
By gaining a thorough understanding of her clients’ businesses and working alongside them, as well as making the most of our cross-team, joined-up approach, Debbie makes the audit process as efficient as possible, and ensures that it is a positive experience that delivers value to the business, and helps her clients to plan according to their situation, goals, and opportunities.
With a style that is straightforward, open, and honest, Debbie is excellent at distilling complex situations into clear, practical explanations and actionable steps. Debbie is also passionate about providing full and consistent support to more junior team members. Whether it’s fixing a problem, making something more effective or efficient, or helping someone develop, Debbie enjoys working with people to navigate and get to the root of the challenges they face.
Outside of work, Debbie’s family keeps her busy! She supports her daughter’s involvement in sports, including at gymnastics and athletics competitions, and loves to travel, get out into nature, and visit the theatre.
In the press
- Growth Business – How fast-growing businesses should prepare for audit
