Aimee
Ironside

Audit Assistant Manager

LinkedIn

Aimee Ironside, Audit Assistant Manager

Who I help

Family businesses. Large corporates. Technology. Oil & Gas.

How I help

Audit & Assurance.

“I see myself as a problem solver.”

Aimee Ironside is an Audit Assistant Manager based in our Aberdeen office. She is a key member of AAB’s Audit team, recognised for her keen eye for detail and approachable manner. With experience spanning various industries, including food processing, technology, and oil and gas manufacturing, she thrives on the diversity her role offers.

No two days are alike for Aimee. One day, she might be mentoring junior team members and helping them build confidence: the next, she’s on-site with clients or analysing complex large consolidation accounts. She enjoys understanding the intricacies of a business and takes pride in establishing strong, lasting relationships.

Aimee believes that clear, honest communication is essential for a successful audit and strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for clients. She is passionate about supporting business success and views audit as a crucial part of that journey.

More than just the numbers

“I’ve always been drawn to numbers; they just made sense to me. But what sparked my interest in auditing was discovering how much of the role is also about people. It’s not just spreadsheets and stats. It’s about conversations, relationships, and gaining real insight into the businesses we work with. That combination of technical detail and human interaction is what makes audit the perfect fit for me.”

Solving problems, not just ticking boxes

“I enjoy delving into the details and truly understanding what’s happening. Every audit tells a story, and I want to get to the heart of that story. I see myself as a problem solver—someone who’s not afraid to ask questions, dig a little deeper, and figure out the “why” behind the numbers. It’s not about pointing out what’s gone wrong. It’s about helping clients understand their position and make confident decisions in the future.”

Variety that keeps me on my toes

“One of the best parts of my role is the variety of businesses I get to work with. My clients range from family-run businesses to large corporate structures, across various industries, including food processing, technology, and oil and gas manufacturing. No two days, and no two audits, are ever the same. I enjoy the fresh challenges that come with each new engagement and the insights I gain from working with such a wide range of teams and business models.”

Planning, staying on track

“During my studies, I quickly realised how crucial time management is. Balancing exams and work commitments taught me to plan, stay organised, and keep a close eye on deadlines. That discipline has stayed with me. I now approach every project with a clear structure and timeline to ensure our audits run smoothly and efficiently, for both us and our clients.”

Talking openly builds trust

“Clear, honest communication underpins everything I do. From the moment an audit begins, I focus on keeping everyone informed and involved throughout the process. Whether it’s regular updates or simply being available to answer questions, I believe in building strong relationships through open dialogue. When clients feel they are being heard and supported, it fosters trust, and that’s what transforms a good audit into a great one.

Some of the clients I currently support are the same ones I’ve worked with since my earliest days at AAB. I’ve seen their businesses evolve, and they’ve seen me grow from trainee to where I am now. That kind of long-term relationship builds a fundamental understanding, not just of the numbers, but of the people behind the business. It means I can anticipate what’s needed, plan proactively, and deliver a smoother audit experience year after year.”

Supporting the next generation

“I take a lot of pride in supporting new team members who are just starting out. I know how valuable it is to have someone guide you through those early steps. Whether it’s explaining the basics or sharing tips I’ve picked up along the way, I love being part of someone’s growth and giving them the confidence to succeed.”

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

“There’s a standard view that auditors are just here to find faults—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s always great to hear when a client has had a positive experience and genuinely feels supported by the process. At AAB, we’re focused on being approachable, helpful, and making sure clients know we’re on their side. That’s a big part of why I enjoy working here.

Audit and accounting standards never stand still, and neither can we. I make it a priority to stay up-to-date with updates and changes, ensuring our clients remain compliant and well-informed. It’s about giving them peace of mind and making sure we’re consistently delivering the best possible service.”