Who I help

Owner-managed businesses. Small businesses. Large businesses.

How I help

Audit & Assurance services. Tax compliance.

“If I say I’ll do something, I’ll do it”

Emma Woods is an Operations Partner based in our Bolton office. She is the lead on the integration project between Barlow Andrews and AAB, supporting the team to integrate successfully. She also supports a portfolio of clients across both Audit and Business Advisory.

Every day is different for Emma, one day she might be supporting the team with delivering a high quality Audit and Assurance service that provides value for clients. While another she might be providing clients with statutory and management accounts or submitting corporation tax returns. No matter which hat she has on, Emma ensures that the level of service provided is always high and that her clients are always able to gain value.

A Partnership Built on Communication

The best client relationships are built on good communication. I like to work in a way that’s open and collaborative, so clients feel comfortable reaching out whenever they need support. It’s not just about delivering a service; it’s about making sure they always feel informed, reassured, and confident in the decisions they’re making.

Getting Things Done

I like to be organised and make sure things happen when they should. I’m not one for putting things off—if I say I’ll do something, I’ll do it. That approach helps me support my clients effectively, giving them confidence that things are in hand and moving forward as they should be.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping clients feel at ease. I once had a client tell me that I helped them sleep at night, and that really stuck with me because that’s the kind of impact I aim to have. It’s not just about making sure the numbers add up and sometimes, it’s not just about solving a problem—it’s about giving someone the reassurance that everything is under control. Whether it’s untangling something complicated or simply confirming they’re on the right track, knowing I’ve helped make a difference is what I enjoy most.

More Than Just Tax and Numbers

People often assume that accountancy is all about tax, but there’s so much more to it. The real value comes from the advice and guidance we provide—helping clients make decisions, avoid pitfalls, and plan for the future. It’s about understanding the bigger picture and making sure businesses and individuals get the support they need, when they need it.

Staying Ahead in a Changing Landscape

Accounting and audit standards are constantly evolving, and keeping up with those changes is one of the biggest challenges in our profession. But rather than seeing it as a hurdle, I see it as an opportunity—to stay ahead of the curve, to be proactive rather than reactive, and to ensure my clients are always prepared for what’s next. By staying informed and adaptable, I can provide the most up-to-date advice and make sure my clients aren’t caught off guard by industry changes.

Balancing Face-to-Face and Tech

There’s no doubt that face-to-face meetings are invaluable when it comes to building relationships, but I also believe technology plays a crucial role in making our services as accessible and flexible as possible. It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about using both to deliver the best experience for clients. Whether it’s a coffee and a chat or a quick video call to keep things moving, I work in whatever way suits my clients best.

Embracing New Challenges at AAB

Since joining AAB, I’ve been excited by the opportunities that come with working alongside new people and taking on fresh challenges. Being part of a forward-thinking team that prioritises collaboration means we’re constantly looking at ways to evolve, improve, and add more value to our clients. It’s an environment that pushes me to grow, and ultimately, that benefits the businesses and individuals I work with.

A Holistic Approach to Supporting Clients

At AAB, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. By integrating our team into the wider group, we’re creating even more opportunities—not just for our team but for our clients too. We’re able to offer a holistic service where they can benefit from new ideas, different perspectives, or a wider range of support that goes beyond traditional accounting. Together, we are absolutely dedicated to  helping businesses achieve their goals in a more rounded and strategic way. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to seeing how our clients continue to benefit from the depth of expertise we can provide.