'For such a small country, we’re leading the way': Belfast tax expert wins top accolade for supporting Northern Ireland’s business community
Caroline Keenan was recognised at the MENTupLEADup Excellence in Business Support Awards for her contribution to helping SMEs, family firms and owner-managed businesses across Northern Ireland grow
Sumer NI’s head of tax, Caroline Keenan, has been recognised for her contribution to Northern Ireland’s business community after winning the MENTupLEADup Excellence in Business Support award.
Caroline received the accolade at a ceremony at Riddel Hall, Queen’s University Belfast, last Wednesday (October 14). Now in their third year, the awards recognise the work of mentors, consultants, advisers and coaches who help businesses across Northern Ireland develop and grow.
Caroline was named the winner from a field of 12 nominees in her category, in recognition of her contribution to the SME, family and owner-managed business sector throughout her career.
Speaking about the award, Caroline said: “I have been very fortunate to work alongside some of Northern Ireland’s most successful businesses throughout my career, including those local SMEs who have thrived from start-up to scale-up, right through to larger FDIs establishing a presence in the region.
“Supporting these enterprises is essential to the growth of Northern Ireland’s wider business economy. Their success and growth ultimately ensures that the country can continue to thrive and provide a wealth of highly-skilled employment opportunities well into the future.
“For such a small country, we’re leading the way in a number of sectors including advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, life sciences, aerospace, precision engineering and creative industries. I’m very proud to have played a role in supporting these enterprises to grow and expand and I’m honoured to have been recognised amongst some of my most talented industry peers.”
Michelle Lestas of MENTupLEADup praised Caroline’s people-centred approach and extensive knowledge of Northern Ireland’s business landscape.
“These awards are all about recognising the integral work of people who help enhance our business economy, from consultants, mentors, advisers and coaches,” she explained.
“Caroline has consistently gone above and beyond for her clients, helping them to establish and grow operations through her strategic business knowledge, dedication and extensive expertise.
“Huge congratulations to Caroline and everyone who was nominated — your work to ensure the growth of Northern Ireland’s business economy simply cannot be understated.”
Sumer NI supports SMEs, family and owner-managed businesses, larger corporates and foreign direct investors across a range of sectors. Its services include tax, audit and accounting, innovation tax relief and forensic accounting.