Lauren
Toland

WHO I HELP

Audit & non-audit companies. Owner-managed businesses. Partnerships. Sole traders.

HOW I HELP

Year-end accounts preparation. Management accounts. External audit compliance. Digital support.

SECTORS/SUPPORT

All sectors.

“PROVIDING INSIGHTS, ENSURING COMPLIANCE, AND GIVING CLIENTS CONFIDENCE IN THEIR FINANCIAL POSITION.”

Lauren Toland is a Business Advisory Assistant Manager based in our Dungannon office. She is involved in the preparation of management and statutory accounts and provides audit and assurance services to a range of clients in various sectors. Her role involves providing year-round accounting advice and support to her clients and assisting those who have recently moved to a digital accounting platform.

BUILDING CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS

“I believe that an ideal relationship with a client is built on communication and mutual respect. I want my clients to feel comfortable reaching out to me at any time, no matter how small the issue may seem. Communication should be regular and proactive, not just when deadlines are approaching.

I always aim to go beyond what clients expect. It’s not just about providing a standard service—it’s about identifying opportunities for improvement that they may not have considered. When a client knows I care about their business as much as they do, that’s when I know I’ve built a strong relationship. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our work has on their success.”

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO

“Being disruptive isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes, questioning traditional ways of doing things is the only way to drive improvement. Taking the same approach every time just because ‘that’s how it’s always been done’ removes the opportunity to innovate. I believe in looking for smarter, more efficient ways to deliver results.

I’m not afraid to be assertive when needed. In a fast-moving business environment, decisions need to be made with confidence. My role is to provide clients with the insights they need to make those decisions efficiently, knowing they have the right information and guidance behind them.”

BALANCING TECH AND PERSONAL CONNECTIONS

“Virtual communication has become the norm, and in many ways, it increases efficiency. However, nothing replaces the value of face-to-face interactions, especially when it comes to building long-term relationships. Some of my clients prefer an in-person approach, while others prefer a more digital experience. At AAB, we have the flexibility to offer both, ensuring we provide the best service in the way that suits each client.

Audits, in particular, require constant communication, and sometimes, it’s simply more effective to be on-site, working through things in real time. At the same time, technology allows us to streamline processes and work more efficiently. The key is finding the right balance—using technology where it adds value, but never losing sight of the personal relationships that truly make a difference.”

NAVIGATING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES

“One of the biggest challenges in statutory accounts and audit is managing compliance deadlines. Clients rely on us to ensure everything is completed on time, but that can’t come at the expense of quality. My role is to balance efficiency with precision, ensuring that deadlines are met while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and service.

Clear communication is the best way to manage these challenges. When clients understand the process and what’s required from both sides, everything runs much more smoothly. By keeping them informed and working collaboratively, we can ensure they meet their obligations without unnecessary stress.”

SUPPORTING AND DEVELOPING THE TEAM

“The most satisfying aspect of working with colleagues is seeing everyone’s hard work come together to achieve our goals. There’s nothing better than knowing we’ve worked as a team to deliver results for our clients.

I also love training junior members of the team and watching them grow professionally. Everyone starts somewhere, and I believe in providing the support and guidance that helps others develop their confidence and skills. Learning never stops in this industry, and I enjoy being part of a team that constantly pushes each other to improve.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

“AAB is on an exciting growth journey, and being part of a firm that is constantly evolving creates incredible opportunities. Our reputation for quality and service allows us to attract new clients while strengthening our relationships with existing ones.

For me personally, I’m excited about what the future holds. AAB is not just focused on client success but also on the development of its people. There’s always something new to learn, new challenges to tackle, and new opportunities to grow. Being part of a forward-thinking team means that no two days are ever the same, and that’s what keeps the job exciting.”

MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS

“Accountants often have a reputation for being ‘number crunchers,’ but our profession is about so much more than that. It’s not just about producing figures—it’s about interpreting them, understanding what they mean for a business, and providing strategic advice.

For audit clients, the process can sometimes cause anxiety, but my role is to reassure them that we’re here to help. An audit isn’t about catching mistakes—it’s about providing insights, ensuring compliance, and giving clients confidence in their financial position. I want my clients to feel comfortable knowing that we’re working with them, not against them.”

GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND

“Clients often compliment me on my attention to detail and my ability to respond quickly to queries. I always go above and beyond because I want my clients to feel supported. Knowing they can rely on me gives them peace of mind, and that’s what great service is all about.”