MD Confirms Steady Expansion in Year Since Joining Sumer Group
SUMER Northern Ireland, which joined Sumer Group, one of the UK’s leading mid-market accountancy practices in June of last year, has confirmed ambitious growth plans with staff headcount set to grow by 100 over the next three years.
Since the acquisition, the Belfast-based firm has increased its headcount by 20%, now employing 130 staff across all levels, which has enabled the firm to enhance its capabilities in specialist areas such as innovation tax reliefs, forensic accounting and audit.
Boasting a team of engineers with technical knowledge in a range of areas such as biomedical science and mechanical and chemical engineering, Sumer NI is also heading up Sumer Group R&D services across the UK and also currently has one of the fastest growing audit teams in Northern Ireland with over 60 staff.
“Being part of a UK-wide group of 2,400 professionals gives us access to a wealth of expertise and resources, while retaining the local knowledge and personal relationships our clients value most,” said Brian Clerkin, Managing Partner at Sumer Northern Ireland.
“By joining Sumer Group, we have united and combined deep-rooted local expertise with the scale, technology, and specialist insight of a larger organisation that has also enabled us to grow our client base – as we can see from the R&D team who are now assisting companies across the UK. This integration is creating powerful efficiencies, unlocking new opportunities that ensure our clients will continue to receive the same trusted, personal relationships they’ve always relied on, now backed by even greater resources and capabilities.
“We pride ourselves on offering clients a full suite of services, from FDIs to local companies. In doing so, we’re not just supporting individual businesses, but we’re contributing to the growth of the wider economy in Northern Ireland by assisting international investors and companies to establish roots here and ensuring that local businesses continue to thrive.”
Sumer NI remains focused on serving the SME sector, with services spanning audit and accounting, corporate finance, forensic accounting, and internal audit and tax. Unlike larger firms, Sumer NI does not engage in listed company work, aligning closely with Northern Ireland’s SME-driven economy.
The company is also setting itself apart as a popular choice for top talent. Each year, Sumer NI recruits around 20 graduates, and places strong emphasis on mentoring, training, and career development. This commitment ensures staff at all stages, from graduates to experienced professionals, can build meaningful careers in a culture built on respect, inclusivity, and opportunity.
“We believe our strength lies in empowering our people to grow and develop their skills while contributing to the success of our clients,” Brian added.
“We have gone through and continue to go through a period of change as we align to the Sumer Group, but by investing in our team and our processes, we further strengthen the level of expertise available to SMEs across the region throughout a wide range of sectors and specialisms.”
READ MORE: EY Ireland named Microsoft Partner of the Year 2025 for Ireland
Looking ahead, Sumer NI plans to continue expanding both organically and through acquisitions, further cementing its role in transforming the accountancy and business advisory landscape in Northern Ireland.
“Much has been achieved since joining Sumer, but this is only the beginning,” Brian concluded. “We have focussed on continuing to evolve as a firm that’s progressive and up-to-date with the latest regulatory developments and operational efficiencies so we can offer the very best service. With the right culture, expertise, and national support behind us, the future looks very bright for our clients, our people, and our business.”
To find out more about Sumer NI and the services it provides, visit the website: www.sumerni.co.uk.
Sync NI's Autumn 2025 magazine explores how Northern Ireland is moving AI from pilot to production
This issue features exclusive insights from industry leaders on real-world AI implementation, responsible adoption, enterprise infrastructure, and how data-driven innovation is transforming businesses across the region.
Read the Big Data Special Edition free online →
Stay connected with NI's tech community:
Subscribe to our newsletter – Get the latest tech news, job opportunities, and events delivered to your inbox
Visit Sync NI – Your daily source for Northern Ireland technology news