For over a decade, Bracey’s Accountants has been a trusted name among businesses in Stevenage, providing expert financial guidance and a personable approach. We sat down with Peter Bracey, the founder of Bracey’s Accountants, to learn more about the firm’s origins, growth, and impact on the Stevenage business community.
Can you tell us the story of how your accounting firm started? What inspired you to set up in Stevenage?
“I’ve had a long-standing connection with Stevenage—I originally went to Barclay School here,” Peter shares. “The Old Town always held a special appeal for me. When I decided to start my own firm, it just felt natural to set up in Stevenage, a place that’s familiar and close to my heart.”
How long has Bracey’s been operating, and how has it evolved since its early days?
Bracey’s Accountants began on June 3, 2010, and from modest beginnings, the firm has grown tremendously. “My first office was above what is now Agent Hybrid. Back then, it was just me and a few others. Today, we have 54 team members across six offices, soon to be seven, from Hertfordshire in the south up to Edinburgh,” Peter explains. “We’re planning even more growth over the next year to continue supporting businesses in Stevenage and beyond.”
What sets your accounting firm apart from others in Stevenage?
“We bring a vast range of expertise and experience to the table, drawn from our network of offices. But more than that, we emphasise delivering advice in a down-to-earth, personable fashion,” Peter says. “When we recruit, we look for personality. We want people who can engage in conversation, look you in the eye, and provide great advice. That’s what truly makes us unique among accountants in Stevenage.“
What types of clients or industries do you typically work with, and how do you support their financial needs?
Bracey’s serves clients across a wide variety of industries. “We have experienced staff who can handle a broad spectrum of challenges,” Peter explains. “Our team’s collective experience allows us to offer informed, supportive advice through the many phases a business goes through, especially in Stevenage’s dynamic business landscape.”
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced running an accounting firm, and how did you overcome them?
“Building a strong team has always been the biggest challenge. That’s why we’ve put so much focus on recruiting apprentices over the years,” Peter shares. “Many of them are now Chartered Accountants or on their way there. By making strategic additions at key moments, we’ve been able to continually enhance our service and support to businesses in Stevenage.”
How do you keep up with the latest financial regulations and trends to ensure your clients receive the best service?
“Continual Professional Development (CPD) is essential in accounting,” he explains. “We host various CPD sessions throughout the year to keep our team updated on both technical knowledge and soft skills. This way, our clients benefit from the latest expertise in financial management and regulations.”
What do you enjoy most about working in Stevenage, and how does the local business community support your firm?
“Stevenage Old Town is a fantastic place to work. We know many local business owners personally and are regulars at nearby shops, cafes, and bars,” Peter says. “It’s a close-knit community but also part of a vibrant business hub, including Stevenage’s wider industrial areas. We’re always eager to work with more local businesses, offering an alternative view or opinion on their accounts.”
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business or improve their financial management in Stevenage?
“Starting a business is hard work, and successful clients of ours have all been grafters. But beyond working hard, you also have to work smart—have a clear strategy and understand your numbers. Know your breakeven point, your overheads, your pricing, and your gross profit margin,” Peter advises. “If you know your figures, you can adjust your strategy as needed. And, of course, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Bracey’s!”
With a long-standing attachment to Stevenage and a commitment to personable, expert financial advice, Bracey’s Accountants continues to serve as a trusted resource for businesses in Stevenage, helping them navigate the complexities of financial management with confidence.
