Business Details
Trusted Accountants in Dorset
Ward Goodman is a leading multi-disciplinary accountancy and financial services firm based in Dorset, with offices in Ferndown and Shaftesbury. Established to provide integrated financial solutions, we combine expertise in accountancy, tax advisory, financial planning, and business advisory services to support clients locally and across the UK. Our team of qualified professionals delivers tailored advice to businesses and individuals, focusing on long-term financial success through proactive planning and compliance. With over 40 years of collective experience, we prioritise client relationships, technological innovation, and regulatory excellence.Our services span statutory financial statements, payroll administration, pension scheme audits, corporate tax strategies, and wealth management. We maintain accreditations with ICAEW, ACCA, and Xero, ensuring high standards of service. Our client-centric approach includes dedicated account managers, transparent fee structures, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We serve diverse sectors, from SMEs to large corporates, offering specialist support in business growth, succession planning, and tax efficiency. Our community involvement and industry recognition reflect our dedication to professional excellence and client satisfaction.
Services
Audit Services
Tax Planning
Payroll Services
Financial Planning
Business Advisory
Pension Schemes
Statutory Accounts
Wealth Management
Corporate Tax
Succession Planning
Highlights and features
- Integrated financial expertise across accountancy, tax, and wealth management
- Dedicated client service managers with specialist knowledge
- Transparent fee structures and proactive compliance support
- Recognised accreditations with ICAEW, ACCA, and Xero
- Proven track record serving businesses and individuals since 2000
Associations and certifications
- ICAEW
- ACCA
- Xero Certified
What people say
Exceptional professionalism
Proactive approach
Tailored solutions
Expert guidance
Seamless audit process
Services
Audit Services
We conduct comprehensive audits for businesses and pension schemes, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Our team provides independent assurance on financial statements, helping clients maintain transparency and stakeholder confidence. With expertise in statutory requirements, we deliver efficient audit processes tailored to your organisation's needs.
Tax Planning
Our tax specialists develop strategic solutions to minimise liabilities while ensuring compliance. Services include corporate tax returns, inheritance tax planning, and international tax advisory. We focus on long-term tax efficiency for businesses and high-net-worth individuals across the UK.
Payroll Services
We manage end-to-end payroll processing, including HMRC reporting and employee benefits administration. Our cloud-based systems ensure accurate, timely payments and compliance with evolving employment regulations for businesses of all sizes.
Financial Planning
Our chartered financial planners create bespoke strategies for retirement, investment growth, and estate planning. We combine tax expertise with wealth management to help clients achieve long-term financial security through personalised advisory services.
Business Advisory
We support business owners with expansion, restructuring, and succession planning. Our EAGERLY framework addresses growth opportunities, acquisitions, and operational efficiency to enhance profitability and sustainable development for UK companies.
People
Alex Foster
Group Managing Director
Alex leads our financial planning division with 25+ years of industry experience. He specialises in strategic wealth management and cross-border tax solutions, holding Chartered Financial Planner status. Alex focuses on delivering integrated advice to high-net-worth clients.
Gareth Simon
Head of Financial Services
Gareth oversees our audit and accountancy services, bringing 20 years of expertise in corporate compliance. He manages audits for large corporates and pension schemes, ensuring adherence to IFRS and UK GAAP standards.
Davina Seymour
Bookkeeper
Davina provides dedicated bookkeeping support to SME clients, specialising in cloud accounting software implementation. With AAT qualifications and 15 years' experience, she ensures accurate financial record-keeping and VAT compliance.
Questions
What accounting standards do you follow for audits?
We adhere to UK GAAP and IFRS standards for all audit engagements, maintaining ICAEW accreditation to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
How do you handle payroll compliance updates?
Our payroll team monitors legislative changes continuously, ensuring HMRC reporting accuracy through automated systems and quarterly compliance reviews.
Can you assist with international tax planning?
Yes, our tax specialists provide cross-border advisory services, including domicile planning and overseas investment structuring for UK residents.
What financial planning credentials do your advisers hold?
Our advisers hold Chartered Financial Planner and CFA designations, with expertise in pension transfers and inheritance tax mitigation strategies.
How do you support business succession planning?
We use our EAGERLY framework to develop exit strategies, including management buyouts, family succession, and business valuations for smooth ownership transitions.
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