I qualified as a certified accountant in 1996 whilst working in the Stoke office of a national firm, Bentley Jennison. I was there until 2002 when I left to go to work in industry as the financial controller for a group of small companies. I obtained a wide variety of experience whilst there as not only was I responsible for the whole financial system but also obtained insight into the employment and commercial law areas as well as health and safety. The ability to "wear many hats" is a common thing in a smaller business. I started Stay in the Black in 2011 as after working in industry for a number of years I realised the challenges faced on a daily basis by small and medium business owners. It is increasingly difficult to keep up with regulations alongside bringing in business. I want to take the strain away and allow business owners to do what they are best at, thus enabling their business to grow and succeed. Stay in the Black is based in Newcastle, Staffordshire and can offer services to businesses over a large geographical area.