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Step onto the floor of the vast open plan office that acts as the headquarters of Grant Thornton in Northern Ireland and it is immediately apparent this is a business advisory firm where things are ‘different’. The firm’s values adorn the walls of the modern and exceptionally well-appointed space at the landmark Belfast DSW (Donegall Square West) office building. Written in huge, oversized lettering, it’s not a gimmick, rather a reflection of a deeply embedded culture that permeates every level of the organisation. Managing partner Richard Gillan has witnessed incredible growth across the firm’s Audit, Tax and Advisory service lines since he joined the practice in 2014 – revenues have increased more than fourfold in that time – a fact he attributes to the firm’s unique culture. ....
Business has faced its most difficult year, with tough decisions and nimble action required to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic. The virus, and lockdowns to manage it, have shrunk our economy by 11%, and recovery will be gradual at best. By the end of February, Hamilton Shipping in Belfast was reporting a slowdown in its deliveries of Chinese-made goods like curtains and sofas as a result of shutdowns in China, where the virus originated. From March to December, businesses here faced lockdowns beginning with a UK-wide stay at home order on March 23. The cessation of international travel and a slowdown in consumer demand were quickly felt in the hospitality sector. ....