Andrew
Philbin

WHO I HELP

SMEs. Large businesses. Family-owned businesses. Owner-managed businesses.

HOW I HELP

Bookkeeping. Accounting compliance. Financial reporting of annual accounts. Tax planning. Corporate tax returns.

SECTORS/SUPPORT

Legal. Construction & property. Leisure, retail & hospitality.

“COMMUNICATION THAT CREATES VALUE FOR CLIENTS.”

Andrew Philbin is a Business Advisory Manager based in our Edinburgh office.  He supports a wide range of clients, offering guidance that goes beyond the numbers. Having come to accountancy later in his career, after working across several industries, Andrew was drawn to AAB by the opportunity to make a real impact – something he continues to value in every client and colleague interaction.  

Whether he’s translating financial data into clear commercial advice or helping clients discover their hidden values, Andrew builds trust through consistent communication and always helps clients reach their goals, both short and long term.   

NO TWO WEEKS ARE THE SAME   

“No two weeks are ever quite the same, and that’s exactly what I love about my role. There’s always something unexpected around the corner, whether it’s a client needing urgent advice, a colleague facing a challenge, or a new opportunity arising, often driven by shifts in legislation or the ever-changing business landscape. I thrive on that unpredictability as it keeps me sharp, engaged, and constantly learning.”  

BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS  

“Every client is unique, and building strong relationships is a non-negotiable for me. I want to understand who’s behind the business – what drives them, what challenges they face, and what their ambitions are.   

My route into accountancy was a little different, and I think that’s given me a broader perspective. Where possible, I take the time to meet face-to-face to understand the full picture because that’s when the real opportunities become clear. It’s never just about the books; it’s about turning numbers into something useful and meaningful. Communication is the foundation of it all. When we build trust early on, it opens the door to better advice and better outcomes.”  

TURNING DOUBT INTO CONFIDENCE

“The most rewarding part of my role is knowing I’ve made a real difference, whether that’s helping a client improve their business or simply being there for reassurance when it matters most.  A client once came to me with hesitancy when I took over their long-standing relationship with a previous manager. There was some uncertainty at first, but over time, we built a strong connection, and that relationship allowed us to dig deeper into the business, uncovering areas where we could create real value. As a result, the business became more profitable, more confident, and I was no longer just their accountant, but someone they genuinely relied on.”  

LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE  

“The business landscape is always shifting, and no two clients experience change in the same way. That’s why I never pre-judge a situation and why staying open and adaptable is key. I learned that early in my career, studying for my qualifications alongside full-time work. It was a real test of resilience and discipline, and it’s those same qualities I draw on now to help clients navigate challenges with clarity and confidence.”  

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY  

“I’m really excited to understand more about how AI can help our clients, not just in terms of speed and automation but in improving the quality of advice we can offer. Like any tool, it has its limitations, and nothing will ever compete with real-life interactions, but used well, it enhances outcomes and supports smarter, more informed decisions.”

SOLUTIONS BEYOND SIGHT  

“Sometimes clients come to us knowing something isn’t quite right, but they can’t put their finger on it. That’s where I come in – asking the right questions, digging into the details, and offering a fresh perspective.  A client once said, “You were always right,”   which showed me that they trusted and valued my opinion and were happy with the results we delivered. With clear communication, a calm head, and the right support, I always aim to leave clients in a better place than where we started.”  

A TEAM THAT CARES  

“AAB is a very special place to work. The team not only have a depth of technical knowledge, but there’s also warmth, trust and incredible work ethic. The support from everyone means I can do more for my clients and contribute more to my colleagues’ growth and development. It’s a culture I’m proud to be a part of.”  

MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS AND FIGURES  

“Often, people assume you need to be a mathematician to be an accountant. It couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, we deal with numbers, but what you really need is a curious mind; that’s when you’ll see the real value.”