Accountancy firm reveals impact of responsible business practices

Bishop Fleming has underlined its commitment to responsible business practices in its fourth annual Responsible Business Impact Report.  

The report underscores the firm's ongoing commitment to fostering a sustainable growth strategy. It highlights key achievements, reflects on areas for growth, and outlines future goals across four core areas: Business, People, Communities, and Environment. 

These milestones not only reflect Bishop Fleming’s steadfast dedication to responsible business, but they also set the stage for further innovation and broader impact in the years ahead.

By embedding sustainability and community engagement within its operational strategy, the firm continues to inspire confidence among clients, partners, and employees alike.

Looking forward, Bishop Fleming aims to build on these foundations, delivering meaningful change both within the organisation and across the wider business landscape. 

, Fleur Lewis (pictured), partner and Responsible Business lead at Bishop Fleming, stated: “Responsible business is not an add-on for us - it’s woven into our daily culture and shapes how we approach our ambitions, values, and decision-making.

“The depth and detail in our report clearly show just how embedded responsible business practices have become within our organisation, a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of our people.” 

Key achievements outlined in the 2024-25 report include: 

• Sustainable Growth: Bishop Fleming achieved a record turnover of £48.25m (15 per cent growth), welcomed over 1,000 new clients, and expanded to over 500 staff. The firm completed a major digital transformation, becoming only the second UK accountancy firm to implement the full Workday ERP platform. 

• Award-Winning Culture: Bishop Fleming won the 2024 Accounting Excellence Pride-ESG Award and Employer of the Year Award. The firm was certified as a Great Place to Work® for the third consecutive year, as well as recognised as a UK Best Workplace™ for Women. Employee engagement in Great Place to Work® increased 7 per cent points to 88 per cent and the firm has once more reduced its gender pay gap. 

• 1 per cent for Communities: The firm exceeded its pledge to give back 1 per cent of turnover, delivering over £500,000 in value through volunteering, fundraising, and sponsorships. This included more than 1,889 hours of community and charity volunteering, and £70,000 raised for local and national causes. 
• Talent Development: The firm’s apprenticeship programme was rated Ofsted Outstanding, and Bishop Fleming was ranked 11th in The Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2025. Seventy-five new apprentices joined in 2024, with a strong focus on social mobility and diversity. 

• Environmental Commitment: The firm continues to target Net Zero by 2050 and with independently validated carbon reporting for the fourth year, has reduced its Scopes 1 and 2 emissions by 67 per cent against its 2022 Base Year. Initiatives included the “Better Travel” campaign, partnerships with Surfers Against Sewage, and a focus on sustainable procurement and recycling. 

 In line with its commitment to responsible business, Bishop Fleming is an active Business in the Community (BITC) member, the largest and longest-established business-led membership organisation dedicated to responsible business practices. The firm uses BITC's responsible business framework to implement actions that contribute to the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. 

Andrew Sandiford, CEO and managing partner, stated: “Through our Better Growth strategy, we are committed to sustainable growth and delivering ‘better’ in all aspects of our business. As such, a focus on responsible business is more important than ever, and we look forward to working with all our stakeholders to strengthen our commitment in this area.” 

Ewan McClymont, Bishop Fleming’s head of Responsible Business, added: “Our commitment to responsible operations is central to the Better Growth strategy, demonstrating our focus on making a meaningful difference in the communities we support. Although we value and celebrate our successes, we stay mindful of existing challenges and understand that there is still work to be done.” 

The Impact Report, available for download on Bishop Fleming's website, offers a comprehensive overview of the firm's responsible business initiatives, accomplishments, and future priorities.