Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chartered Accountants in Chester
Established in 2001, L J OBrien is a chartered accountancy practice based on the outskirts of Chester, near Ellesmere Port. Our team comprises fully qualified Chartered Accountants committed to maintaining the highest standards through continuous professional development and adherence to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) practice assurance regime. With extensive experience in business operations, we specialise in alleviating the administrative burdens of running a company, allowing clients to focus on revenue generation. Our services span final accounts preparation, tax returns, payroll management, VAT compliance, and strategic business advice.We offer tailored support for businesses transitioning to digital accounting systems, including Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage. Our expertise extends to key performance indicator (KPI) reporting, financial forecasting, and part-time financial director services. We prioritise clear communication, regulatory compliance, and practical solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Our team's combined experience in industry, commerce, and practice ensures a deep understanding of business challenges. We pride ourselves on delivering accessible, reliable, and technically rigorous financial services to businesses of all sizes.
Services
Final Accounts
Tax Returns
Payroll Services
VAT Compliance
Business Advisory
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- Chartered accountants with ICAEW accreditation since 2001
- Practical business experience from finance director to operational roles
- Expertise in digital accounting systems including Xero and QuickBooks
- Specialist knowledge in KPI reporting and financial forecasting
- Flexible service delivery from payroll support to part-time FD services
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
Services
Final Accounts
We prepare statutory accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies. Our service ensures compliance with accounting standards and timely Companies House filings. We minimise business disruption while maintaining accuracy in financial reporting.
Tax Returns
Comprehensive tax return preparation and submission services for individuals and businesses. We handle HMRC compliance, tax liability calculations, and provide investigation support while optimising legitimate tax efficiencies.
Payroll Services
Full payroll management including RTI and MTD compliance. We produce payslips, handle pension auto-enrolment, and ensure adherence to evolving payroll regulations while maintaining data confidentiality.
Business Advisory
Strategic financial advice covering business structure, cashflow management, and system implementation. Our consultancy includes KPI development and part-time financial director support for growing businesses.
Digital Accounting
Implementation and support for accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage. We provide system setup, data migration, and training to ensure efficient digital financial management processes.
People
Lorna J O'Brien
Founder & Chartered Accountant
Qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountant with 25+ years' experience in practice, industry, and NHS audit. Specialises in business accounting and regulatory compliance. Established L J OBrien in 2001 after senior finance roles in commerce.
John R O'Brien
Chartered Accountant
ICAEW Chartered Accountant with extensive FD experience in private businesses. Expert in financial modelling, system implementation, and business acquisitions. Joined L J OBrien in 2013 to expand technical capabilities in digital accounting solutions.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer?
We provide final accounts preparation, tax returns, payroll management, VAT compliance, business advisory services, and digital accounting system implementation for businesses of all sizes.
How do you support growing businesses?
We offer part-time financial director services, KPI reporting, cashflow modelling, and business planning support to help growing businesses maintain financial control and strategic direction.
Are you qualified chartered accountants?
Yes, both directors are fully qualified Chartered Accountants with ICAEW and maintain continuous professional development to ensure technical excellence and regulatory compliance.
Do you work with digital accounting systems?
We specialise in implementing and supporting Xero, QuickBooks, Sage 50/200, and other digital accounting platforms, including data migration and staff training.
What areas do you serve?
Based in Chester, we serve businesses across Cheshire, Ellesmere Port, and the Pembrokeshire Coast, with remote support available nationwide through digital communication tools.