Andrew Butterworth

As the Financial Director of inTec Group, Andrew Butterworth has a firm grasp of accounting practices. Despite this, he emphasises that FFT has been integral to inTec’s growth.

Andrew explains that the business began in 2016: “Intec Group was founded with the vision of integrating technology and communications, as we saw their complementary strengths and the potential for mutual customer support. The plan involved finding companies to acquire, bringing them on board, and managing their back office and administrative needs.”

“We engaged FFT early on to handle our accounting. As we brought each acquisition on, we integrated them into the FFT partnership, moving the accountant to FFT from day one. As we’ve grown, FFT has grown with us – where they used to handle two sets of accounts, they now manage 19 sets!”

When inTec Group reached the audit threshold and their operations became more complex, FFT stepped up to offer further assistance. “We reached the threshold for audits and brought in FFT’s audit services as well. Additionally, we now rely on FFT for payroll management,” Andrew says.

Both Andrew and other members of the business have been very pleased with the unwavering support FFT has provided at every stage of inTec’s development. “FFT handles everything efficiently. You tell them what you need, and they get it done. That aspect of the business runs incredibly smoothly.”

“We also appreciate the fact they are always available for brainstorming sessions and project ideas. They’re great for running ideas past and picking their brains.”

As a financial expert himself, Andrew regularly goes to FFT with complex tax questions that require a specialist perspective. “Our tax structure is complicated due to our group setup and constant acquisitions. FFT excels at managing our tax affairs, something we often don’t have time to focus on.”

“For projects such as those around leasing, FFT has been invaluable. They join calls, provide feedback, and bring ideas to the table. They are always ready to help or find someone who can. If they encounter an issue they can’t solve, they seek assistance from their accountancy bodies or partners.”

When occasional payroll issues have occurred, FFT has reacted quickly and efficiently to resolve them. Andrew recalls, “A while ago, a new employee was paid only half a month’s salary due to an error. He was concerned about paying his bills. We contacted FFT, and they recalculated and resolved the issue quickly.”

FFT’s approach to auditing is seamless. “In other places, audits involved weeks of intensive work, with staff dedicated solely to providing information. FFT, however, requests the necessary information, reviews it, and returns with questions and tests within a couple of days. Their process is less disruptive and not intrusive. The FFT team works closely with us, almost as if they are part of our team.”

This honesty, openness, and problem-solving attitude is vital in the partnership between the two businesses. Andrew appreciates the way FFT works as a firm. “They might not be a big four accountancy firm, but their service is so excellent that we don’t need one. They cover all our needs. Internal meetings, including those with audit staff, are always positive experiences – something you might not get with one of the big four.”

“FFT is what we call a ‘big-small-company.’ They have the characteristics of a smaller firm but operate like a larger one, handling complex tasks with ease.”