Member News: Stars of Finance and Accountancy Recognised at FAB Awards

May 22, 2026
Member News: Stars of Finance and Accountancy Recognised at FAB Awards

Achievements of the north-east finance and accountancy community celebrated at the Finance & Accountancy Business (FAB) Awards, held at Aberdeen’s Union Kirk.

The awards’ headline sponsor, Aberdeen-based TMM Recruitment, has specialised in finance and accountancy recruitment for almost three decades.

Amanda McCulloch, Chief Executive at TMM Recruitment, explains why it’s important to recognise the talented people working in finance and accountancy:

“These awards recognise the expertise, contributions and professionalism of the people who set the benchmark for excellence and are driving forward the financial sector here in the north-east.

“We’re all operating in challenging conditions. Uncertainty, cost pressures, regulation and risk are all very real right now. It’s at times like these that accountants really come into their own.

“The judging panel praised this year’s finalists for their innovation, ability to deliver commercial value and act as business partners in a rapidly evolving business landscape.”

Now in its second year, the FAB Awards are part of the local business calendar with employers seizing the opportunity to recognise their people and celebrate excellence in the profession.

Jon Oakey, who took home the Lifetime Achievement Award explains why the FAB Awards matter:

“Having spent 40 years in this profession, I’ve seen first-hand the extraordinary commitment, integrity and innovation that accountants bring to businesses, communities and public life. Awards that recognise this work are important because they shine a light on excellence that might otherwise not be appreciated.

“What makes the FAB Awards special is the atmosphere on the night and that’s created by a combination of camaraderie, the stories behind the achievements, and sense of pride for peers who have made a genuine difference.

“To be nominated by colleagues and then recognised through an independent judging process is a powerful endorsement of both professional excellence and personal dedication. It reminds all of us why this profession matters and inspires the next generation to aim even higher.”

The FAB Awards, which were presented by Moray Barber and Lauren Mitchell, partnered with local charity Aberdeen FC Community Trust. Chief Executive, Peter Davidson delivered a powerful speech to the assembled business community, highlighting the charity’s vital contribution through its wide-ranging education, health and wellbeing programmes.

FAB Awards co-sponsors were CNR International, and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Winners announced during the awards ceremony:

  • Rising Star: Sophie Daniel represents the best of the next generation entering the profession and was recognised for the breadth and depth of the responsibility she holds at SBP Accountants including driving improvement while managing organisational change, training, development activity and client impact.
  • Excellence in Finance: Ian Mackie received this award for his commitment to people development, cross-functional collaboration and leveraging technical and accounting expertise to drive positive transformation at Hall Morrice LLP.
  • Finance Team of the Year: CRC Evans finance team was celebrated for collaboration that made a material difference to the business. The team has successfully managed significant people and systems changes, embedding them effectively and professionally, and driving meaningful improvements.
  • CFO of the Year: Jacqui Taylor was recognised for her role as a strategic business partner at AJT Engineering and an influential commercially focused leader who has driven systems and process transformation, introduced innovative commercial models, and empowered the finance team.

Lifetime Achievement: Presented to Jon Oakey. For more than four decades, Jon has exemplified what it means to lead through finance. His contributions have shaped organisations and left a lasting imprint on the northeast. Perhaps nowhere is his impact more visible than during his time as Chief Financial Officer at Port of Aberdeen. Joining in 2019, Jon played a pivotal role in the financing and governance of the £420 million Aberdeen South Harbour expansion.

For more information about the FAB Awards and future events, please visit www.thefabbies.com.

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