360 Accountants’ first ever apprentice becomes part owner

360 Accountants has announced that Sophie Holmes, who joined the firm 13 years ago as the firm’s first ever apprentice has now become a shareholder and part-owner.

Holmes started her apprenticeship at 360 in 2011 after finishing her ‘A’ Levels. She then became a fully qualified chartered accountant in 2017, where her “exceptional work” led to her being named charities specialist and then corporate portfolio manager.

Two years ago, she rose even further when she became client services director and was appointed to the board.

Holmes is also the chair of the firm’s charity, the 360 Grass Roots Foundation and chair of the Humber ICAEW Society of Chartered Accountants.

Holmes said: “I am very proud to be a shareholder and part-owner of 360, a firm I have loved ever since joining. I am also thankful to Andy and Leanne for giving me this incredible opportunity. Andy pushed me from day one to work hard and to step outside of my comfort zone, so this is the culmination of 13 years of hard work. It’s a privilege to work with a fantastic team and I look forward to continuing to grow this amazing firm.”

Andy Steele, founder of 360, based in Hull, York and Wakefield, added: “We are incredibly proud and grateful for the hard work and commitment Sophie has shown throughout her time here. Her continuing excellence and positivity to 360 has helped grow our business to where it is today.

“By Sophie becoming a shareholder and part-owner, we have placed the first piece in our succession jigsaw, a piece myself and the other shareholders felt was a no-brainer.”

Steele concluded: “We are thrilled that one of our apprentices has risen through the ranks and made it to the top. We are building a team to run our business forever. She is well-respected wherever she goes and is a shining example of what can be achieved.”