HLB Mann Judd recently won “Best Accounting & Consulting Services Firm” at the 2024 Client Choice Awards. We asked HLB Mann Judd Australasian Chair, Tony Fittler, to share insights on the history of the firm’s involvement in the awards and what it means to our clients and our people.
What are the Client Choice Awards?
The Client Choice Awards recognise best practice in the professional services sector and are based on client feedback. Accounting, legal and engineering firms in Australia and New Zealand participate to gain a better understanding of their client experience. The awards are independently researched and benchmarked by Beaton Research + Consulting.
Why are the Awards important to the profession?
The judging is based solely on client feedback. Over time, we have seen the professional services sector reach new heights in managing client expectations, adding value and earning trust. Being voted number one by our clients is the most important and valuable accolade we can receive.
Beaton recently celebrated 20 years of the Client Choice Awards. When did HLB Mann Judd first get involved in the awards?
We first took part in 2011. In 2012, we were named a finalist, which was pretty exciting. Then in 2013, we took home our first win for Best Accountancy Firm in our revenue category. We were absolutely thrilled!
How many times has HLB Mann Judd won at the Client Choice Awards?
We have won the award for Best Accounting Firm in our revenue category nine times (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2024). Additionally, we have also received accolades for the Best Accountant and Best Overall Professional Services Firm (which includes law and engineering firms). HLB Mann Judd has won 17 Client Choice Awards in total.
How have client expectations changed over the years?
In the past 10 years, technology has brought about significant change in terms of accessibility. We are more connected than ever before, and client expectations have increased accordingly. It’s important to leverage communication tools, whether it’s an email, video, team chat or text message as well as the traditional methods.
Despite the role technology has played in the profession (and will continue to do so with advances in AI and automation), I firmly believe clients will continue to value the friendly, helpful and approachable manner of our advisers.
Have any past wins or moments stood out over the years?
At previous awards evenings, it has always been incredibly exciting to hear our name read out.
However, 2021 was particularly meaningful for us. That year we took home three awards, Best Accounting & Consulting Services Firm, Best Overall Professional Services Firm and Best Accountant (Perth partner, Litsa Christodoulou).
COVID cast a shadow on all aspects of our lives. Our clients faced many uncertainties. We saw our people shift to remote work and forced to quickly adapt to change. They worked tirelessly to support and guide their clients. It was therefore particularly rewarding that our people were acknowledged by our clients.
What role have our staff played in winning the awards?
These awards are a testament to our great people. It is their expertise, responsiveness and client care that make the difference. We place emphasis on delivering the best possible client experience and we foster this culture throughout all HLB Mann Judd firms.
Any final comments?
I wish to congratulate everyone in our firms again for helping us achieve this award. No single person, business division or office can win this award. It is truly a team effort by everyone in the HLB Mann Judd Australasian Association.
Thank you.