FAB Awards Winners

The inaugural Finance & Accountancy Business (FAB) Awards, held at Aberdeen’s Union Kirk celebrated the vital role finance professionals play in shaping the success of local businesses and communities in north-east Scotland.

Hosted by broadcaster Lauren Mitchell and proudly sponsored by TMM Recruitment, CNR International, and the ACCA United Kingdom the event brought together business leaders and industry professionals for an evening of recognition and networking.

Winners announced during the awards ceremony:

Rising Star

Peter Cowan CA was recognised for his remarkable accomplishments early in his career, his leadership and significant contributions to Hall Morrice LLP’s digital-first transition.

Excellence in Finance

Kathryn Groundwater received this award for her outstanding performance in financial management, technical excellence and consistently nurturing a culture of support and mentorship in her team at Flotation Energy.

Finance Team of the Year

Worley UK’s finance team was celebrated for establishing itself as a trusted strategic business partner, with a reputation based on responsiveness, accuracy, and a deep understanding of what stakeholders need to succeed.

CFO of the Year

Derek Harcus was recognised for his exceptional leadership and strategic vision which have resulted in long-term change and the consistent attainment of efficiency targets at Bilfinger UK.

Lifetime Achievement

The Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Chris Oliver, honouring a distinguished career defined by achievements, purpose, leadership and commitment to leveraging the power of finance to do good and create better outcomes.

Amanda McCulloch Chief Executive at TMM Recruitment, commented: “After almost 30 years of specialising in accountancy and finance recruitment, we’ve worked alongside incredibly talented people and couldn’t understand why there wasn’t an event that recognised their contributions.

We're thrilled that so many people agree that this recognition is long overdue and enthusiastically participated in the first year of the awards.

“There’s a tired stereotype that accountants are just number crunchers. The Finance & Accountancy Business Awards truly busts that myth with the nominations showcasing professionals committed to technical excellence, innovation and financial transparency, positively influencing their peers and colleagues and contributing to confident decision making at the highest levels.”

The FAB Awards also partnered with local charity Archway which provides vital support and care for individuals with learning disabilities and their families across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The collaboration aimed to raise awareness and funds to support Archway’s vital work, further emphasising the event’s commitment to community engagement.

For information on future events and the event photo gallery, please keep an eye on www.thefabbies.com.