Sumer Northern Ireland (Sumer NI), the Belfast hub of the Sumer Group, has been crowned Professional Services Firm of the Year at the Business Eye Awards, held recently at the ICC Belfast and attended by an audience of more than 600 business leaders. Securing the win against a highly competitive field, judges praised the firm’s exceptional growth trajectory, innovation-led service model and market-leading commitment to client care.

Led by Managing Partner, Brian Clerkin, Sumer NI is one of the region’s most respected mid-market accountancy and advisory practices, providing Audit and Accounting, Corporate Finance, Forensic Accounting, Internal Audit and Tax Services to over 1,200 clients annually. With eight Partners and a team of 115, the firm has built a strong reputation for technical excellence, innovation, and personalised client service.

“We are delighted to be awarded this accolade which recognises our dedication to professional standards and client care,” says Brian Clerkin. “Sumer NI boasts a highly accessible senior leadership team delivering a client-centred approach. Our recent integration into the wider Sumer Group has strengthened both our expertise and reach, connecting the Belfast operations to a UK network of 2,400 professionals.”

Sumer Northern Ireland

A standout area of growth has been SSumer Northern Ireland’s Innovation Tax Relief team, now leading R&D service delivery for the entire Sumer Group. The team, which includes engineers and subject-matter experts across pharmaceuticals, engineering, and technology, supports more than 90 clients UK-wide and leverages cutting-edge AI-powered platforms to produce insight-driven, robust R&D claims.

“Sumer NI set out to redefine what modern innovation advisory should look like,” Brian added. “By combining engineering expertise with advanced technology, we are providing clients with an unmatched standard of precision and commercial relevance. We remain committed to playing a pivotal role in continuing to advance Northern Ireland’s business landscape through strategic thought leadership, industry engagement and proactive support for SMEs, FDIs, and family-owned businesses,” Brian explains.

As one of the fastest-growing Audit teams in Northern Ireland, Sumer NI has increased this department’s headcount by 30% in 18 months while boosting its overall headcount by 20%. Double-digit growth in specialist areas including innovation tax relief, forensic accounting and audit sees the firm nurturing emerging talent, recruiting around 20 graduates each year and encouraging continuous development, with over 20% of staff holding two or more professional qualifications.

Paying tribute to the staff at Sumer NI, Managing Partner Brian Clerkin said: “This award is a testament to our exceptional team and the standard they set every day. Their expertise, innovation and personal approach are what truly differentiate Sumer NI. We are proud to support businesses across Northern Ireland and proud of the part we play in strengthening the regional economy. This recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering outstanding professional services and continuing our growth in the years ahead.”