Our Team
The team who make it work
Client Manager
Abi Troughton
Abi achieved fantastic grades in Mathematics and Business Studies during her A Levels, which led her to employment within a small firm of accountants in Plymouth. After two years of gaining invaluable experience, she decided to pursue a role working with larger, corporate clients.
She joined the Mark Holt & Co team in April 2016 as an Accounts and Audit Assistant whilst studying for her AAT and Chartered Accountancy qualifications, which she successfully achieved in 2019. In 2020, she was promoted to the role of Client Manager, which she thoroughly enjoys. Abi’s caring and conscientious attitude means that she provides a personalised service for her clients. Offering more than just ‘one size fits all’, she is passionate about working alongside her clients to provide proactive ideas and advice.
In her spare time Abi enjoys paddle boarding around the South West with her husband and has recently taken up running, with plans to enter a 10k race in the not too distant future. Abi also enjoys spending time with friends and family, regularly entertaining in her recently landscaped garden.
Audit Client Partner *
Alan Sanders
Alan joined Mark Holt & Co in May 2024 as an Audit Client Partner, bringing with him 15 years of experience within audit and assurance.
After completing a degree in Economics at Exeter University, Alan gained his Chartered Accountancy qualification with a Devon based mid-tier firm, supporting small and medium sized local businesses in the South West before joining BDO in Bristol. He subsequently spent three years providing audit and assurance services to medium and large companies based in Europe and India, before returning to Devon and working as a financial controller for a medium size LLP. He then returned to audit and assurance with a new perspective and a corresponding refreshed offering, having been the recipient of these services in his previous role.
Outside of work Alan is a keen sports fan and enjoys spending time with his wife and young daughters.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Alistair Bond
The work experience that Alistair carried out at Mark Holt & Co in July 2019 was a major deciding factor for him wanting to put his name forward for this job when a role was available. Alistair joined us in July 2022 as an Accounts and Audit Assistant. It was mainly due to the atmosphere in the office and how it was much more upbeat than any of the stereotypical office jobs that Alistair instantly knew he would never be bored working at Mark Holt & Co.
As for things that Alistair does outside of work, whenever he gets the chance to he plays both football and cricket and unfortunately has a season ticket for Plymouth Argyle so he has to watch them on a weekly basis and when Alistair is not doing that he is spending time with his family and partner Sophie.
Tax Consultant
Becca Brown
Becca joined Mark Holt & Co in July 2015 after achieving a first class degree in mathematics from Plymouth University.
She has since completed both ATT and CTA qualifications and has become members of both institutes. Having knowledge in a variety of taxes allows her to provide a range of tax advice to clients.
In Becca’s spare time she loves dancing when she can as well as spending time with her friends and family!
Accounts & Audit Senior
Bradley Dodd
Bradley joined Mark Holt & Co in September 2022 as an Accounts and Audit Assistant after gaining experience at a different practice in Plymouth following completion of his degree in Accounting & Finance at Plymouth University. Bradley is currently studying towards his ACA qualification and has an interest in tax and charity accounts.
In his own time Bradley enjoys a variety of hobbies from creative writing, being a game master for dungeons and dragons, airsoft, martial arts and weightlifting.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Camilla Doran
Camilla is currently an Accounting and Finance student at the University of Plymouth.
Camilla began her degree in 2022 and has also been a student ambassador and course representative at the University. We were pleased to welcome Camilla this July 2024 at Mark Holt & Co to carry out her placement year as one of our Accounts & Audit Assistants.
A few of Camilla’s personal interests and hobbies includes spending time with her family, travelling to different countries and socialising with her friends.
Tax Senior
Chloe Grantham
Chloe graduated from the University of Plymouth with a First Class Honours in Accounting and Finance. Joining Mark Holt & Co in February 2022 she hopes to excel as a Tax Assistant and is excited to start the ATT/CTA qualification to further her knowledge.
Chloe enjoys spending weekends away and spending time with her family and friends. In Chloe’s spare time she also loves to cook tasty meals and attend her local gym.
Director Of First Impressions
Christie Butson
Following a long career in the Motor Trade in Reception and Administration roles and running her own Business for 16 years, when the opportunity arose at Mark Holt & Co in November 2022 Christie decided it was time to take a leap and join us as our Director of First Impressions. Christie is looking forward to the team culture and opportunities that Mark Holt & Co has to offer after hearing such great things about the company. Customer service has always been a passion of hers.
In Christie’s spare time she love walking her fur-baby “Marley” the Poochon, family time, painting, and making the most of each day with a smile.
Administration Assistant
Claire Matthews
Following a long term career in the motor trade, Claire decided it was time to take a leap and joined Mark Holt & Co in June 2019 as Support Administration Assistant. With over 15 years’ experience working for a large, successful motor dealer, Claire gained an extensive skill set. With this knowledge and her keen eye for detail, she has become an asset to the Support Team.
Outside of work, Claire travels the South West in her classic Volkswagen Camper, accompanied by her husband, Garry and their two dogs Bruno and Cooper. They also attend Volkswagen Festivals, where they showcase their classic motors – and enjoy a Devon cider or two!
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Connell Musgrave
Connell has always showed a strong interest in finance from a very young age which led him to completing a week of work experience at Mark Holt & Co back in April 2022. This work experience ignited an extreme interest for Connell into not only accountancy but also into joining the Mark Holt & Co team. He was specifically impressed with the work culture that takes place here.
This week of work experience convinced Connell that this is the place for him and he has never looked back since joining us in July 2023 as one of our Accounts & Audit Assistants. When it comes to outside of the workplace, Connell spends the majority of his time either playing golf, or travelling all over the country supporting Plymouth Argyle.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Connor Thomas
We have welcomed Connor to the Mark Holt & Co team this July 2024 as one of our Accounts & Audit Assistants in our professional team. Connor successfully graduated from Plymouth University this July with a 2:1 in Accounting and Finance. He plans to start studying for his ACA qualification in the near future and is looking forward to developing his knowledge on accounts.
Connor has a passion for football and not only plays it but also holds a season ticket for Plymouth Argyle. If he is not at the football, you can often find Connor at his local gym.
Accounts & Audit Senior
Danielle Copley
Danielle has a breadth of experience in the accounting industry, 7 years in fact and began her career in bookkeeping and then moved to accounts preparation. Danielle completed her AAT qualification last year and has joined our professional team in June 2023 as one of our Accounts & Audit Assistants.
Outside of work Danielle likes to spend time with her family, enjoys walking her dog Luna and also has a passion for horse riding.
Tax Assistant
Daniel Latham
Dan moved down from Manchester to Plymouth three years ago to study Accounting and Finance at Plymouth University. Since finishing his degree Dan has joined Mark Holt & Co this month as one of our Tax Assistants.
In Dan’s spare time he loves being in the sea. A keen surfer, sailor, windsurfer and also recently taken up open water swimming.
Accounts & Audit Senior
Daniel Murphy
After over 13 years working in accountancy practices, Danny has moved to us with the view to expanding his horizons by gaining experience working with some larger clients and a larger team. He was drawn to us based on the culture that was described on our website and the impact that the firm try to have on their clients. Danny was immediately certain in his first interview that Mark Holt & Co was the right fit for him. Danny is currently finishing off his AAT Level 4 and wishes to take his next step in becoming qualified as soon as he has taken his final exams.
In his spare time Danny enjoys fishing, dog walks, singing and playing guitar. He has recently played at his first open mic night and really enjoyed it, even though it was initially a little daunting.
Client Partner *
Debbie Huntley
Debbie joined Mark Holt & Co after completing a degree at Plymouth University in Accounting and Finance in July 1995. She trained and completed her professional exams before progressing through the firm to a Client manager, a role that she still enjoys today. Throughout her time at Mark Holt & Co Debbie has undertaken a variety of roles and is now heavily involved in leading the Professional Team, People Development, Client Service and maintaining and managing a client portfolio as a Client Partner.
Her strengths lie in working with the team and her clients to help to grow and develop both businesses and individuals, helping them to reach their goals. Debbie is passionate about team building and culture and strives to deliver and exceed client expectations at all times.
*This is a job title to reflect the oversight of the role. It is not a legal title. For a full list of the Directors, please refer to the legal information. Click here for more information.
Audit Assistant
Edward Fisher
Edward was born and raised in Portsmouth and studied Accounting with Finance at the University of Portsmouth where he proudly achieved a First Class Degree. During Edwards studies he undertook a charity accounting module that went towards his final grade which developed his interest in audit. This interest then sparked Edward to apply for the Audit Assistant role at Mark Holt & Co this October 2024. His girlfriend had moved to Plymouth for University and so Edward decided it wasn’t so bad down here and decided to take the role and move down here himself.
In Edwards spare time he enjoys keeping fit through endurance sports and his long term goal is to complete an Ironman triathlon at some point. Edward also enjoys a true crime documentary or series.
Accounts Senior
Emma Leach
Emma began her career after completing A-Levels, joining a small, local accountancy firm as an apprentice and gaining her AAT qualification. Emma joined Mark Holt & Co in September 2022 as an Accounts Senior after spending 20 years exploring roles in both practice and industry, gaining valuable experience. After deciding the practice life is the one for her Emma was very excited to join the Mark Holt & Co team.
Outside of work, Emma is mum to two young children, two guinea pigs and two cats, loves music, a bit of crochet, and has a ridiculous collection of house plants.
Marketing Executive
Emma Stoneman
Having attended Loughborough University Emma attained a 2:1 degree in Fine Art and progressed on to complete a Masters in Marketing awarded a Merit. It was after completing this Masters that Emma decided she wanted to pursue a career within the marketing industry and bring her creative flare into the marketing world. Emma joined Mark Holt & Co in February 2022 as a Marketing Executive and hopes to be a key asset to the Marketing team.
In her spare time Emma likes to attend the gym regularly, socialise with friends and family and loves to explore new places with her boyfriend. You can often find her paddle boarding in the sun when it’s the summer months. Emma and her boyfriend are currently renovating their first home together and looking forward to seeing the final results.
Client Manager
Gemma Almond
Gemma joined the Mark Holt team in December 2014 as an Accounts & Audit Senior. After several years obtaining experience with local firms Gemma expanded her knowledge by gaining her Chartered Accountancy qualification in 2014.
Gemma is looking forward to the team culture and the opportunities that Mark Holt has to offer.
In her spare time Gemma enjoys exercise, being outdoors, socialising and cooking.
Accounts and Audit Assistant
Georgie Bartlett
After finishing her A-levels in 2019 and realising she had a love for numbers, Georgie decided to pursue a career in accountancy. She started an AAT apprenticeship with a small firm in the Plymouth area, before joining Mark Holt & Co in the Spring of 2021 and is due to complete her full AAT qualification by Summer 2023. Georgie has a strong eye for organisation and is always keen to help anybody out, which has led her to become an integral part of the client service and charity teams.
When not exploring different beaches across Devon and Cornwall, Georgie enjoys baking brownies and rocky roads for her family and friends in her spare time. Alongside with looking after the variety of houseplants she owns, she also loves going out for a cocktail… or two!
Director
Gordon McCaw
Gordon specialises in tax advisory and heads the firm’s tax advisory team. He provides advice on all tax matters specialising in corporate restructuring, shareholder taxation, inheritance tax planning, Stamp Duty Land Tax, and planning for and dealing with the tax aspects of property development and investment.
Prior to joining Mark Holt & Co, Gordon worked with a ‘Big 4’ firm in Belfast and other firms in London and Plymouth, providing tax advisory for many different people and businesses.
Senior Payroll Specialist
Hannah Iley
Hannah started her career as Senior Accounts Administrator for a local Estate Agents based in the South Hams. She completed her AAT Level 3 and within her role covered a variety of tasks, including; Management Accounts, VAT returns, client accounts and data input. However, Hannah soon realised that her strengths and passion shone through in payroll, by which point she decided to find a role where this would be her sole focus. Hannah joined Mark Holt & Co in August 2019 as a Payroll Assistant and has recently started her payroll apprenticeship.
In Hannah’s spare time, she is a regular gym goer and fitness fanatic, whether that is attending the gym first thing in the morning or out in the evenings for a run!
Another hobby of Hannah’s is golf and is currently trying to get her handicap down so it is better than her husbands!
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Henry Trudgill
Henry joined Mark Holt & Co on a placement year in the summer of 2021 as part of his degree at the University of Plymouth. Having now graduated with a First Class Honours in Accounting & Finance, we have welcomed Henry back this month (July 2023) with a full time position as one of our Accounts & Audit Assistants. Henry now plans to begin studying for his ACA qualification in the hope to become a chartered accountant in the near future.
Outside of work, Henry enjoys playing rugby for Ivybridge RFC, going to the gym regularly, and seeing family and friends when he can.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Jade Chapple
Jade began to study AAT in 2020 at Plymouth City College whilst working for the NHS alongside her studies. We welcomed Jade to Mark Holt & Co in May 2022 as one of our Accounts and Audit Assistants were she has worked extremely hard to complete her AAT qualification with us which she attained in January 2023. Her aim is to work towards ACA to become chartered status in the near future.
Jade has always loved problem solving and enjoys the challenge that working on Audits can bring. She has a love for animals especially cats and enjoys going out and trying new restaurants with her fiancé. Jade has been loving renovating her first home which is almost complete and also enjoys exploring coastal paths to find new walking spots.
Accounts and Audit Senior
Jasmyn Bolster
Jasmyn started her career in accountancy in 2007 as an apprentice at a small firm in Cornwall. Once Jasmyn gained her AAT qualification she moved over the water to Plymouth where she took on her first “real” accountancy job.
Over the next 10 years Jasmyn moved from being an office junior through to Client Manager and gained vast experience of different types of clients, and all the issues that come with business – including the immediate changes that Covid brought to us, which she is excited to expand on here at Mark Holt & Co. Accountancy wasn’t always her dream though, as a little girl Jasmyn was obsessed with becoming a wedding dress designer, and after her own wedding she took a gamble and left accountancy to work in a beautiful bridal shop…needless to say she ended up preferring the world of accountancy and quickly came back!
Jasmyn time now outside of work is spent as a mum to a busy little girl and parent rep for her group at the OPM rugby club.
Support Team Leader
Jayne Cowan
Jayne joined Mark Holt in April 2017 taking on the role of Support Manager. Her main duties are to ensure all administrative work is completed to deadline whilst also assisting our Practice Manager, Kerri, with some of her responsibilities.
Prior to this she worked at Royal Mail for 16 years as a Team Leader supporting her team of advisors working with their business account customers on a technical IT helpdesk.
Jayne enjoys living on the coast and takes full advantage of this by walking her dog on and around the beautiful beaches in Devon. She is passionate about Formula 1, shopping and catching up with friends in her spare time.
Payroll Assistant
Kanchat Boonphong
Having graduated from Arts University Plymouth gaining a wide range of experience within the creative industry, Kanchat was ready to take on a completely new challenge. The interest in finance was sparked in her previous career as Retail Team Leader, working closely with the business and finance background, undertaking tasks that required technical processes and high attention to detail.
From the experience she has gained from her customer and client facing roles, client satisfaction is a top priority for her when it comes to creating solutions to problems.
Kanchat was drawn to the fun work culture that Mark Holt & Co provides and is eager to expand her knowledge within her position as Payroll Assistant.
In her spare time, Kanchat attends her weekly netball games and practices her golf swing at the driving range every now and again! Kanchat continues to explore her creative side, ranging from film photography to creative makeup. She also loves cooking, trying out new restaurants as she’s a massive foodie!
Tax and Payroll Manager
Kate Knott
Kate joined Mark Holt & Co in September 2018 as a Tax Manager. Kate worked for the majority of her 25 year career at a South West accountancy firm working her way up from junior to the Personal Tax Manager. At Mark Holt & Co she is now undertaking a mixed role working in both Your Tax Partners and Your Finance People.
In her spare time she is heavily involved with community youth football and cricket, plays netball, walks her dogs, spends time with her family and grabs a quiet cup of tea when time allows!
Administration Assistant
Kayleigh Dore
When Kayleigh completed her A Levels in 2013, she followed her dream of working in the big city, where she secured an exciting role as a Contracts Administrator in London. She gained a breadth of knowledge within Facilities on the Crossrail Project. After five and a half years, Kayleigh met her now fiancé and relocated from Essex to Plymouth, where she continued working within Facilities for another year. In 2019, Kayleigh decided she was ready for an exciting new challenge and joined Mark Holt & Co as an Administration Assistant.
Kayleigh loves living in the South West and has made her home here, completed by recent addition, Pepper the kitten. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring the hidden gems of Devon & Cornwall, but she also still likes to travel home to catch up with family & friends on a regular basis.
Practice Director
Kerri Fowdon
Kerri joined the Mark Holt & Co Ltd team in January 2006, taking on the role of Marketing and Events Coordinator.
Her role has evolved over the years and she is now Practice Director and oversees all day to day aspects of running a busy Accountancy Practice.
Previously Kerri worked for M&S, so has been trained in the core values of ‘caring for the client’ – nothing is too much of a problem! As well as a business background, Kerri also worked for an IT company for a number of years, supporting and maintaining the clients’ software systems.
She enjoys dealing with people and relishes working in a team environment. The core culture values and fun attitude of the Mark Holt & Co Group are very refreshing and Kerri is always keen to contribute to maintaining and supporting these values and the team overall.
Accounts and Audit Senior
Lauren Girow
Lauren joined Mark Holt & Co in 2020 after deciding it was time to move on from her career as a Teacher. Prior to this, she gained a BSc from the University of Bristol and a PGCE from the University of Exeter. After completing work experience with the firm, Lauren knew that a career in accounting was path that she wanted to pursue. She has begun an apprenticeship to gain chartered status within the next few years.
In her free time, Lauren enjoys walking her dog, spending time with friends and family and baking one too many sweet treats!
Client Manager
Lauren Kane
As a school student, Lauren completed her two week work experience with Mark Holt & Co which confirmed that Accountancy was most definitely the career for her. After completing her A-Levels, Lauren joined as a permanent member of the team with the ambition of completing her AAT qualification and the long term goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant. Having been with Mark Holt & Co since finishing her school studies, Lauren feels that she has built a second family here, with whom she has shared many milestones and achievements.
Lauren has a fantastic, proactive work ethic, with a keen eye for detail and is passionate about helping our clients to succeed. In the future, Lauren hopes to do some work with our Healium branch, so that she can share her knowledge and have direct involvement with helping clients to grow their businesses. In her free time Lauren enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attends her local gym and is currently enjoying renovating her first home, with her fiancé Ruben.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Lauren Wills
Lauren gained a BEd qualification and an MA from Plymouth University and progressed on to teach in primary schools for 4 years, with maths being Laurens favourite subject.
Lauren completed work experience here at Mark Holt & Co in February 2022 and from this decided upon a change in career and joined us in September 2022 as an Account and Audit Assistant.
In Laurens spare time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, finding nice places to eat, going on walks in the countryside and keeping fit,, playing netball each week.
Client Partner *
Lee Warner
Lee studied at Ridgeway School and started his working life as a Training Coordinator at House of Fraser. After a few years, Lee decided this wasn’t the career path for him and so took a brave leap and returned to learning, enrolling at Plymouth University to kick start his future career in accountancy. After completing his degree, Lee joined Mark Holt & Co in August 2012 and has never looked back. He was attracted to the firm because he feels we offer more than just a routine accountancy service. His role enables him to advise his clients not only about finances, but all aspects of growing their business and achieving their personal goals.
Lee loves spending time with his young family and they have recently welcomed a new addition, Molly, the Cockapoo. He is also a keen golfer when time permits, and a keen supporter Plymouth Argyle he tries to attend as many home matches as he can.
*This is a job title to reflect the oversight of the role. It is not a legal title. For a full list of the Directors, please refer to the legal information. Click here for more information.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Lewis Edmondson
Lewis joined Mark Holt & Co in April 2022 as an Audit and Accounts Assistant, after gaining seven months of audit experience at another firm. Lewis completed his degree in Business and Management at UWE Bristol, finishing in May 2020. Whilst covering various accountancy modules during his degree, Lewis decided he wanted to pursue a career in the profession after university! He is currently studying towards his ACA qualification, with the aim of achieving Chartered status. Lewis holds a keen eye for detail and is passionate about providing excellent client service.
In his free time, Lewis enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to the gym, trying new restaurants and going on lots of holidays.
Accounts and Audit Senior
Lloyd Hancock
Lloyd joined Mark Holt & Co in June 2021 after graduating from Plymouth University with a 2:1 Degree in Accounting and Finance and is going on to study towards the ACA qualification with hopes of becoming Chartered.
In his spare time Lloyd enjoys a variety of sports including lacrosse and football, attending the local gym and spending time with family and friends.
Tax Assistant
Lottie Poundall
Lottie joined Mark Holt in July 2021 as a Tax Assistant and loves being part the fun working environment. Lottie is keen to start her Tax exams within the next 12 months. Before joining Mark Holt, Lottie grew up in Ivybridge and went on to study Accounting and Finance at Plymouth University.
In her spare time she enjoys travelling, spending time with family and going out for cocktails with friends.
Administration Assistant
Lucy Westgarth
Upon leaving school, Lucy joined a top local Letting Agent and spent eight years gaining a wealth of knowledge, and in due course, was promoted to Lettings Manager. However, she ultimately left to pursue her lifelong dream of travelling Australia and Bali. On her return, she secured a new role as a Sales Executive within the Motor Trade and achieved great results for several years, but in August 2019, Lucy decided it was time for a change (and more sociable working hours!) and so was delighted to have the opportunity to join the Mark Holt & Co team as their Director of First Impressions. Outstanding customer service and attention to detail has always been a passion of Lucy’s, and so she knew that this role would be the perfect career move for her.
In her spare time, Lucy enjoys spending time with her partner and their young son and also competing her horses
Tax Senior
Mark Forshaw
Mark worked for HMRC for almost 10 years, gaining experience in a range of roles from CGT risk assessment to employer compliance to road fuel testing. After leaving HMRC, Mark joined a local accounting firm were he completed his ATT.
Mark is looking forward to starting my CTA studies at Mark Holt, and developing my knowledge and experience working within the tax team.
Director
Mark Holt
As you may already know, Mark started the business (back in 1987) and heads the firm.
Mark is a genuine all rounder with a wide range of financial expertise. He oversees all of our services and ensures the firm runs well. Mark enjoys business development work and maintains tax, audit and accounting responsibilities for some clients.
In the past Mark has been a partnership secretary for a firm of lawyers and run a computer bureau (accounting not dating!)
Prior to setting up the firm, Mark was a Manager for an international firm of Accountants. Mark’s analytical approach has led to a carefully thought out plan for the firm and for many clients, as they develop successful strategies.
With Mark’s business planning expertise he sits on the Board of some companies, as well as being a Treasurer for other organisations.
Director
Mark Whittaker
Mark is the longest serving member of our team. He has progressed from office Junior to a Director of Mark Holt & Co and Healium. Mark has an extensive portfolio of clients ranging from individuals to large corporate clients covering a broad range of business sectors.
With a variety of clients comes a variety of work. Mark has particular strengths and enjoys helping businesses develop and grow, working closely with clients. Mark sits in on regular client board meetings assisting with both the routine and strategic direction of the business.
Accounts and Audit Senior
Matthew Whear
Matt graduated from the University of Plymouth with a First Class Honours in Accounting and Finance. Previously, Matt completed a placement year at Mark Holt & Co during his time at university but later rejoined the team permanently in June 2021. Matt is planning on studying towards his ACA qualification in order to become a chartered accountant.
Outside of work, Matt likes going to the gym and spending time with friends and family.
Administration Assistant
Megan Jenkins
Megan recently returned to Mark Holt & Co at the end of 2023 after taking some time out to raise her two young children. Megan has returned in the role of Administration assistant, working alongside our practice director to ensure we are always developing within the business. Megan prides herself on her organisational skills, creativity and eye for detail.
Megan is family orientated and looks forward to spending quality time with her two children, husband and Whippet, Rupert!
PA To Mark Holt and Mark Whittaker
Natasha Daniels
Natasha joined Mark Holt & Co, fresh from Plymstock Comprehensive School, as an Office Junior in September 1997. Natasha has progressed through a variety of support administration roles during her time with the firm. She has provided reception cover, worked as secretary to the Tax Team and she was also PA to the Tax Manager, although her longest placement is her role as PA to Mark Holt, with whom she has built a close working relationship. Natasha provides Mark and his clients with an excellent service and she prides herself on high quality, transparent communication. She also provides the same PA service to Mark Whittaker – she certainly likes a challenge! She also provides additional help to members of the team and assists the Managers as and when required.
In her own time, Natasha enjoys exploring the South West’s hidden gems and seeks unique lodge stays with her husband and Buddy the Jack Russell – she’s looking forward to a tree house break in the near future! A keen gardener, Natasha often shares her home grown produce with her very grateful colleagues.
Managing Director
Neil Huntley
Neil has a wide remit of responsibilities and experience as Managing Director of the Mark Holt & Co Group.
His time is split between leading our business and his client portfolio. Both roles he approaches with the same passion and drive to make a difference, whether that be to our clients or our team. Having started as an 18 year old apprentice the culture and values of the firm are embedded in everything Neil does and fuels his desire to give others the opportunities that he has enjoyed.
These years of experience have built an extensive and broad range of advisory skills which gives Neil the opportunity to add value to his clients through proactive and creative planning ideas that help them not only grow, but also protect the business and personal wealth they are building.
His experience sees him delivering a range of projects to his clients from business sales and acquisitions, to management buy outs, corporate restructures, income and wealth planning and tax planning assignments.
Where the need arises Neil also enjoys delivering through his role in Healium providing a direction for his clients and adding to the value and profitability of their business.
In summary Neil is driven to make an impact and enjoys making a difference.
Tax Senior
Paige Rowe
Having a keen interest in business and accounting, Paige always knew that she wanted to work within the professional industry. She graduated from Plymouth University with an Upper Second Class Honours degree in Accounting and Finance. Paige joined Mark Holt & Co in July 2017 as a Tax Assistant. She is currently half way through studying her ATT/CTA and is hoping to complete her studies in 2022, where she will achieve Chartered Tax status. Paige has a real passion for tax. She thrives on helping her clients to organise their affairs and is always looking to ‘think outside of the box’. Paige is an integral part of our culture team, regularly organising fun events and ‘treat of the week’ to maintain a fresh and energetic working environment.
Paige is family orientated and enjoys spending time with her nephews. She has three little dogs, Marley, Mia and Millie. Paige is currently planning her wedding to fiancé Nick in November 2022.
Senior Management Accountant
Paul Hyde
Paul’s accountancy career began here at Mark Holt & Co in December 2002. During his 13 years, he gained invaluable knowledge and a wealth of experience, but in November 2015 he made the tough decision to move to pastures new and secured a role in industry for a local beverage supplier, where he discovered his love for analysing and understanding figures.
Sadly, due to the pandemic, Paul was made redundant. Fortunately, having maintained good relationships with his peers at Mark Holt & Co, he was offered the opportunity to join our Management Accounts team. Paul was eager to return and accepted the offer gladly. His adaptability and positive attitude, make him a real asset to our team and he has been welcomed back with open arms.
When he’s not taking his two daughters to gymnastics and netball, Paul is a keen runner and regularly participates in local races. A big football fan, he is a season ticket holder for his home team, Plymouth Argyle.
Director
Peter Hill
Peter has been at Mark Holt & Co for over 30 years. As well as looking after a diverse range of clients, guiding them on all aspects of their business and personal financial affairs, he also overseas our marketing and business development activities. This includes acquiring new clients to help us grow our business, and more importantly, working with clients on growing their businesses. So if you would like to identify and develop the potential for your business in order to achieve your goals, whether more money, freedom, or even just a plan to pass the business on to others, give Peter a call to see how we can help.
Peter is the author of Pricing for Profit, published by Kogan Page and available through Amazon. This book captures many years of experience on helping businesses to develop and implement pricing strategies to maximise profits and business value, and includes many real life case studies and huge list of practical workable ideas for any business. The book is published around the world and even in German, Vietnamese and Portuguese (in Brazil) languages, which has led to some interesting consulting projects outside the UK. See link below for more information.
Whilst he still also carries responsibility for Audit, Accounts and general Tax work, and is qualified as both Chartered and Certified, perhaps his greatest contribution undoubtedly comes from the energy and enthusiasm he conveys to those clients with a desire to drive their businesses forward. Like all the Directors, Peter sees beyond just the financial issues to help clients plan their future success, whatever that may be for them.
Marketing and Communications Manager
Rebecca Fry
Becki is a passionate and highly motivated marketing professional with over 15 years experience of initiating and delivering results across a wide range of industries. With a great understanding of business Becki is able to look at problems, scenarios or goals and build an appropriate solution which achieves results including consumer insights, marketing campaigns, strategic planning, building and maintaining relationships and much more.
Becki got into Marketing from her love of Christmas. When she was young (and still now!) she loved the Coca-Cola Christmas advert (you know the one ‘Holiday’s are coming’ with the truck!). Every time Becki watched it, it would get her into the Christmas spirit. Form this she realised this was part of Marketing and that is how her journey began.
Accounts Senior
Ryan Colmer
Ryan has joined Mark Holt & Co this October 2024 as our new Accounts Senior to join our growing professional team.
Ryan attained his AAT qualification at a previous accountancy firm and then decided to take some time out and travel around Europe, Asia and Australia where he stayed and worked for 18 months. On Ryan’s return from travelling he began studying towards his ACCA qualification and has plans to complete this qualification with us at Mark Holt & Co.
One of Ryan’s main hobbies outside of work is to play golf and he also plays darts for his local pub in his spare time. Ryan says he is a “Long term frustrated Arsenal supporter” too.
Tax Senior
Sadie Cadd
Sadie joined Mark Holt & co in 2019 from another Plymouth firm of accountants where she worked for 9 years, studying for her ATT qualification. Sadie plans to start studying towards her CTA in the near future.
In her spare time Sadie loves spending time with family and friends, going on holidays to new places and keeping fit in the gym.
Finance Controller
Sadie Plant
Sadie’s working life began when she started a Business Apprenticeship. However, upon completion, she covered a maternity role in internal finance for a colleague and realised that her passion lay in numbers. She never looked back and spent over 10 years gaining a wealth of experience in various finance roles within different industries including factories, charities and a Psychology Practice. In April 2019, Sadie was ready for a new challenge and so was delighted to secure a role as Finance Controller for Mark Holt & Co.
Sadie an avid camper and regularly explores the South West with her partner, Colin, son Jack and doggie Dexter. As the British weather is not always to be relied on, Sadie and her family prefer to jet off to warmer climates and love nothing more than relaxing on a sun lounger with a Pina Colada in hand.
Finance Manager
Shaun Russell
Shaun joins our internal Finance and Support team as our Finance Manager bringing with him over 30 years finance and commercial experience having worked for several local businesses across a breadth of different industry sectors.
Outside of work Shaun has a grown up daughter and an energetic Sprocker, he enjoys most sports with rugby being his main passion, and can regularly be seen at a game (particularly the Exeter Chiefs) with a refreshment in hand. Shaun is also a keen golfer of questionable standard which always ensure he achieves his steps target for the day.
Audit Client Partner *
Stephanie Williams
Steph joined the Mark Holt & Co team in October 2013 as an audit and accounts senior, working her way up to client partner, and now oversees the audit function as one of the firm’s Responsible Individuals.
After completing a degree in Economics with Accounting at Bristol University, she started an audit training contract with Baker Tilly in Bristol and obtained her Chartered Accountancy qualification in 2011. She subsequently spent two years working in audit and compliance in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, before relocating to Cornwall.
Outside of work Steph enjoys Pilates and spending time with her husband and young son.
*This is a job title to reflect the oversight of the role. It is not a legal title. For a full list of the Directors, please refer to the legal information. Click here for more information.
Client Manager
Steve Libby
Steve did a degree in Accounting and Finance at the University of the West of England, and then carried on with his goal of becoming an accountant by doing the ACCA exams, which he completed in 2005. Steve joined Mark Holt & Co in January 2008. Steve is a Client Manager, and hopes that his post qualification experience will continue to benefit the Mark Holt team and clients.
Steve and his wife have been married since March 2012, and they are parents to 2 boys. Steve enjoys going to live music, comedy and sporting events.
Accounts & Audit Assistant
Tabi Hold
During her A-Level studies Tabi was eager to start working and so secured her first job in a local pizzeria. Keen to move into a more customer focused role, she then went on to become a waitress at a local eatery – Sometimes working 60 hours a week alongside her studies! After deciding she wanted to pursue a Business Administration apprenticeship, Tabi was delighted to join Mark Holt and Co in July 2021.
Tabi has always had a desire to develop her career and after lending a helping hand with tasks for members of the professional team she decided that she’d like to begin a new career path in accounts and audit. We have welcomed Tabi as one of our new Accounts & Audit Assistants this July 2023 and we look forward to seeing her progress within this role.
In her spare time, Tabi enjoys shopping, eating out with her partner olly and likes to attend the gym regularly. She also enjoys spending time with her family and travelling to different holiday destinations.
Audit Manager
Tatendashe Muzvidziwa
After graduating with a first class Bachelor of Accountancy Degree from the University of Zimbabwe in 2016, Tatendashe trained with PKF Chartered Accountants in Zimbabwe before joining Mazars Botswana in 2019 where she worked for two years. Taking up an opportunity to gain international experience, she moved to England in October 2021 to join Mazars Milton Keynes as an Assistant Manager in the Industry and Services Audit Team.
Progressing her career as an Auditor, she signed up with Grant Thornton Milton Keynes as an Audit Manager in the Private Capital Team where she led audits of Owner -Managed Groups & standalone entities, Private Equity Backed Groups, subsidiaries of Overseas-based Companies. Passionate about working in Teams and and the project-related nature of audit work plus being enthusiastic to add value to businesses in the mid-market sector, Tatendashe joined our growing Audit Team as an Audit Manager in November 2024.
Outside of work Tatendashe enjoys taking long walks and socialising with friends.
Director Of First Impressions
Tia Bennett
Tia moved to Plymouth from Cornwall in 2020 to begin her degree and instantly loved the area. Tia has finished studying BSc (Hons) Environmental Science in May 2023, and set to graduate in September 2023. Through 6+ years in hospitality and a placement in 2022 writing the sustainability page and pledge for Visit Dartmoor, Tia realised that she likes working with clients to convey information and provide friendly advice and problem solving. She loves being organised so our role of Director of First Impressions was the perfect role for her that Tia has taken up this July 2023.
Tia felt attracted to work for Mark Holt & Co due to the warm and welcoming team we have and the fun atmosphere in the office. She lives with her fiancé in Plymouth and will be getting married in spring 2025. In Tia’s spare time she enjoys reading, socialising, fashion, exploring South West Heritage Sites, and weekends away with her fiancé.
Client Partner *
Tom Rowlands
Tom has been with Mark Holt & Co for over 10 years following a work placement during his time studying Accounting and Finance at Plymouth University. In this time he has obtained his AAT qualification, a first class honours degree and his ACA qualification in 2016. Tom is now a client manager of a portfolio with a range of business industries including manufacturing, healthcare, e-commerce and hospitality.
In his spare time Tom enjoys the outdoors, with coastal walks and trail running being particular favourite ways to get fresh air!
*This is a job title to reflect the oversight of the role. It is not a legal title. For a full list of the Directors, please refer to the legal information. Click here for more information.
Administration Assistant
Tracy Copleston
Tracy has been with Mark Holt & Co since January 2006. Her role within the company has changed over the years. Currently Tracy is responsible for all aspects of client take on, ensuring that our database is kept up to date, and all relevant processes and procedures are followed. Being part time, Tracy is often called upon to help with admin cover for holidays/sickness and particularly busy times. She also takes an active part with our ‘Fun Team’ and organises fun events on a regular basis.
A keen baker, Tracy often makes birthday cakes for the team, so if you are visiting our offices for a meeting, watch out, you may be lucky and be able to sample a piece of cake!
Client Manager
Will Kelley
Will joined Mark Holt & Co in June 2017 from Monahans, a firm of accountants in Wiltshire and Somerset where he was an audit senior. Before that, Will began his career in accounting on Deloitte’s graduate trainee program in their Bristol office having graduated from Newcastle University with a 2.1 (Hons) degree in Geography. A move to Plymouth was a natural decision due to Will’s interest in the great outdoors and his partner studying towards her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Plymouth University. Will is a qualified chartered accountant with the ICAEW and holds the audit qualification.
In his spare time, Will enjoys trekking in the hills and mountains of the UK and is a qualified mountain leader. He plays hockey and is a keen supporter of Bath Rugby.
Digital Accounting Advisor
Yasmin Barnes
Yasmin’s career began in 2016, where she joined an accountancy firm in Plymouth and began studying AAT. Once she gained her AAT qualification, Yasmin was eager to seek an exciting new challenge and so joined the Mark Holt & Co team in July 2019 as an Assistant Management Accountant. Since joining, Yasmin now works within our Digital Accounting Team where she strives to streamline clients accounting processes as well as providing support and training for a range of digital platforms.
In her spare time, Yasmin enjoys spending time with her family and friends, she enjoys baking with her son Richie, and (being a self-confessed foodie!) goes out to dinner as much as possible.