Business Details
15 Years
experience
Tech-Focused Accounting Services for Startups & Scale-Ups
Founded in 2011 by Martin Hickman, Max Accountants has established itself as a specialist accounting partner for early-stage technology and high-growth companies. Leveraging cloud-based technologies like Xero, we deliver scalable financial support tailored to the unique needs of the tech sector, which constitutes over 90% of our client base. Our expertise spans R&D tax credits, EMI and SEIS tax reliefs, and grant funding, reflecting our deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by innovative businesses. With a team of experienced professionals, including former FTSE 250 finance leaders and Deloitte-trained chartered accountants, we combine industry-specific knowledge with cutting-edge tools to streamline accounting processes.Our mission prioritises long-term client relationships, offering flexible CFO services, payroll management, and strategic financial planning. We guarantee high-quality, value-driven advice, evidenced by our proven track record supporting startups through scale-up phases. Our commitment to excellence extends to team development, ensuring sustained expertise in serving the evolving needs of technology-driven enterprises.
Services
Cloud Accounting
EMI Schemes
R&D Tax Credits
Payroll Services
CFO Advisory
Company Secretarial
Tax Compliance
Grant Funding
SEIS Relief
Financial Planning
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in FTSE 250 finance leadership roles.
- Our team includes Deloitte-trained chartered accountants and EMI scheme specialists.
- We use cloud-based technology to streamline accounting for tech companies.
- We specialise in R&D tax credits and SEIS tax relief for innovative businesses.
- Our proven track record supports startups through scale-up and investment rounds.
What people say
Excellent support
Fantastic partner
Streamline financial processes
Quick and supportive
Enhanced strategic planning
Services
Cloud Accounting
Our cloud-based accounting solutions provide real-time financial management for tech startups. Using platforms like Xero, we deliver scalable bookkeeping, automated reporting, and secure data access. This approach ensures transparency and efficiency while supporting growth through integrations with other business tools.
R&D Tax Credits
We help tech companies claim R&D tax credits by identifying qualifying activities and preparing compliant submissions. Our expertise maximises refunds for innovation in software development, product prototyping, and technical problem-solving. We ensure adherence to HMRC guidelines while optimising claim value.
EMI Scheme
Our EMI scheme implementation services assist startups in attracting talent through tax-advantaged share options. We handle scheme design, HMRC approval, and ongoing compliance. This includes valuation advice and option agreement preparation to support employee retention strategies.
CFO Advisory
We provide outsourced CFO services including cashflow forecasting, investment readiness, and financial governance. Our team supports strategic decision-making with data-driven insights tailored to high-growth tech businesses seeking scale-up or acquisition opportunities.
Payroll Services
Our payroll solutions handle salary processing, tax deductions, and compliance reporting for tech companies. We manage complex scenarios including international employees and incentive schemes, ensuring accurate and timely payments while maintaining regulatory compliance.
People
Martin Hickman
Director
FCMA-qualified with 25+ years in FTSE 250 finance, sales, and operations roles. Founded Max Accountants in 2011 to specialise in tech-sector accounting solutions.
Sarah Royle
Director
Chartered Accountant with Deloitte audit and fiscal valuation experience. Specialises in veterinary tech sector accounting and strategic financial planning for growth businesses.
Helen Campbell
Team Manager
Experienced in finance and payroll across hospitality and education sectors. Manages our accounting team to ensure efficient service delivery since joining in 2020.
Erica Straw
Accounts Assistant
Former Royal Air Force officer with retail finance experience. Provides accounting support since 2014, specialising in startup financial processes.
Jaskaran Singh
Accounts Assistant
Qualified AAT professional with insurance and accounting practice experience. Supports our clients' bookkeeping and compliance needs since 2021.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for tech startups?
We provide cloud accounting, R&D tax credits, EMI schemes, payroll, company secretarial services, and strategic financial planning tailored to tech startups.
How do you support high-growth companies?
We offer scalable CFO services, tax relief optimisation, and real-time financial reporting using cloud technology to support rapid business growth.
What experience do you have in the tech sector?
Over 90% of our clients are tech companies, with our team having worked with FTSE 250 firms and Deloitte's fiscal valuation department.
Can you help with government tax incentives?
Yes, we specialise in R&D tax credits, EMI share schemes, and SEIS/EIS tax reliefs to maximise funding for innovative businesses.
Do you work with international tech companies?
Yes, we support businesses with foreign currency income and overseas corporate structures across the UK tech sector.
