When it came to scouring the market for the best offshoring partner Ben Ruddle left no stone unturned. He’d already undergone a review of 23 offshoring firms before he landed on The Back Room. This level of diligence and commitment to excellence shows up in everything Unity Accountancy does. Although relatively new and relatively small they are on their way to be a much bigger firm, fast. 

This case study explores their business model, ambitions and how their partnership with The Back Room is instrumental to their success.

From their humble origins, just over a year ago, as a small single firm in rural Wales, Unity Accountancy is set on building a small empire. Founded by Ben Ruddle and Cerith Williams, the dynamic duo plan on growing by acquiring and reinvigorating firms that are ready for a rebuild. They call this the modern digital practice: powered by the very best in technology to automate low value administrative work, they can then manage their human resource with greater proficiency. This is not to replace but to apply the human touch where it counts most - in high value advisory services and proactive customer service.

What does a modern digital practice look like? The firm mandates the use of cloud-based accounting software Xero, ensuring accuracy of data and transparency for clients. They’re also using Dext, Karbon practice management software and AI tools such as XBert. There’s no waste, with a laser focus on standardising and optimising resource management, processes and tools to help them scale as they plug this toolkit into newly acquired firms. With the right tech in place they use offshoring to make their human capital as efficient as possible: augmenting their local team with qualified, trained Filipino staff through The Back Room.

Why The Back Room?

Unity Accountancy chose The Back Room based on their leadership and expertise in the sector (a business created by Accountants for Accountants), excellent communication, commitment to quality, and the ability to build genuine relationships with their own offshore team. The first hire was a highly skilled bookkeeper who quickly advanced to handling comprehensive accounts preparation and they’re on a fast track to hire more as they grow. The second also supports Unity with marketing as well as accounting work.

Some of the most important criteria for Unity Accountancy’s choice included:

Digital first: Unity Accountancy's commitment to a fully digital operation was supported by The Back Room's expertise in cloud-based processes and their ability to provide staff proficient in using Xero and other vital software.

Easy offshore team building: The Back Room helped Unity Accountancy navigate the complexities of offshoring, providing skilled, committed professionals while managing all the HR, legal and tax considerations.

Training and culture fit: The Back Room offers comprehensive training and integration for offshore staff, helping ensure the candidate is a good culture fit with the Accounting firm. This means offshore employees are well-prepared, a good fit, and can contribute effectively from day one. 

Ben couldn’t stress enough how important cultural fit is and why working with talent from the Philippines has been so successful.