A trio of accountants from Aberdeen firm Johnston Carmichael (JC) is currently in Houston in the US as part of efforts to spread north-east oil and gas expertise around the world.
Granite City office joint managing partners Niall Farquharson and Andrew Walker along with new recruit and tax director Richard Britten are attending the world’s biggest oil show, OTC.
Mr Britten only joined JC in April but is already playing a key part in building the firm’s employer solutions practice, which targets companies with internationally mobile employees.
With Scottish Enterprise reporting in March that North America remains the main region for oil and gas exports, JC is highlighting its work with companies looking at US expansion.
These include Ellon-based chemical engineering specialist Aubin Group, which has recently launched operations in the Middle East and Houston and won a Queen’s Award recognising its international trade.
Mr Walker said: “Becoming immersed in our clients’ businesses is a significant factor in our success.
“We have worked closely with Aubin Group over the years to understand its business, its aspirations and key economic drivers.
“This allowed us to advise and help achieve an efficient commercial structure to set up Aubin for strategic global expansion, while taking into account the tax implications of operating in a number of jurisdictions. We are delighted to see the positive effect this has had on its business.”
He added: “OTC is a great opportunity for us to continue strengthening our links in the world’s oil capital, talking to clients and gaining an in-depth understanding of the latest challenges and opportunities in the region, particularly in light of a new, lower oil price.
“As part of the trip, we will also be linking up with our counterparts at PKF Houston. As members of PKF International, a global network of accountancy firms, Johnston Carmichael is able to tap into a local knowledge base in key oil and gas hubs around the world. This is a valuable addition to the service we are able to offer clients eyeing global growth.”
Meanwhile, JC is among the finalists in the Scottish Accountancy and Finance Awards for an eighth consecutive year.
It has been shortlisted in the accountancy firm and insolvency team of the year categories, with winners due to be announced at a ceremony in Glasgow on June 18.