Business Details
19 Years
experience
Trusted Chartered Accountants in Edinburgh
Established in 2007, Johnston Smillie is one of Edinburgh's largest independent accountancy firms, dedicated to delivering comprehensive financial solutions tailored to diverse client needs. Our team of chartered accountants and tax advisors combines technical expertise with a client-centric approach, serving businesses and individuals across Scotland. With 41 professionals including 16 qualified accountants and three chartered tax advisors, we prioritise long-term relationships through regular communication and face-to-face meetings. Our services span business accounting, personal tax planning, specialist sector support, and software integration, reflecting our commitment to both professional excellence and community engagement.We maintain strong partnerships with local charities, having raised over 10,000 annually for community causes. Our Edinburgh-based team serves clients nationwide, offering flexible meeting arrangements and free parking facilities. Backed by certifications from leading accounting software providers, we ensure clients receive technically robust yet accessible financial guidance. Through business clubs and referral networks, we actively support client growth beyond traditional accounting services. Our 25-year client retention record demonstrates our ability to build trust through consistent, high-quality service delivery.
Services
Audited Accounts
Tax Planning
Payroll Services
VAT Returns
Software Support
Business Advisory
Inheritance Tax Planning
Company Secretarial
Management Accounts
Specialist Sector Accounting
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We have 16 qualified accountants and three chartered tax advisors with sector-specific expertise
- Our team maintains long-term client relationships through regular face-to-face meetings
- We offer certified software integration support for Sage, Xero, QuickBooks and FreeAgent
- Our Edinburgh-based team serves clients nationwide with flexible meeting arrangements
- We actively support local communities through charitable initiatives and business networks
Associations and certifications
- Sage Account Partner
- Xero Silver Partner
- QuickBooks Platinum Adviser
- FreeAgent Friendly
What people say
Excellent service
Highly professional
Trusted advisors
Valuable referrals
Knowledgeable team
Services
Business Accountancy Services
Our Edinburgh-based chartered accountants provide comprehensive business accounting solutions tailored to companies of all sizes. We specialise in accounts preparation, payroll management, and financial strategy development while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. Our team works closely with clients to improve cashflow management and support business growth through informed financial decision-making.
Personal Tax Planning
We offer bespoke personal tax planning services focused on minimising liabilities while maximising financial well-being. Our chartered tax advisors provide expert guidance on inheritance tax, self-assessment returns, and tax investigations. By understanding individual circumstances, we deliver tailored solutions that ensure compliance with current regulations while protecting clients' financial interests.
Specialist Sector Accounting
Our team delivers sector-specific accounting services for contractors, equestrian businesses, medical professionals, and property investors. With deep industry knowledge, we provide tailored financial solutions that address unique regulatory requirements and business challenges. This specialisation ensures clients receive relevant advice that supports their specific operational needs.
Accounting Software Support
We provide expert support for major accounting platforms including Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, and FreeAgent. Our certified professionals assist with software implementation, integration, and ongoing technical support. By helping businesses transition to modern cloud-based systems, we enable improved financial management through real-time data access and automated processes.
Company Secretarial Services
Our comprehensive company secretarial services ensure businesses maintain full compliance with corporate governance requirements. We handle statutory filings, board meeting arrangements, and regulatory documentation while providing expert guidance on corporate structure matters. This service allows business owners to focus on operational priorities while maintaining compliance.
People
Lea Brash
Director
Chartered Accountant with extensive experience in business advisory services. Specialises in delivering strategic financial solutions to Scottish SMEs while leading the firm's director team.
Anne Melville
Chartered Accountant Associate
Experienced tax specialist providing personal tax planning solutions. Focuses on inheritance tax strategies and self-assessment returns for individual clients.
Kenny McNeill
Chartered Tax Advisor Associate
Tax advisory expert with specialist knowledge in complex tax planning scenarios. Assists clients with tax investigations and compliance matters across personal and business contexts.
Portia Ellis
ACCA Professional Staff
Qualified accountant supporting business clients with financial reporting and compliance requirements. Provides technical expertise in accounting software implementation.
Gordon Ferguson
Professional Staff
Supports clients with day-to-day accounting needs and software integration. Contributes to the firm's commitment to accessible, technology-driven financial solutions.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide comprehensive services including accounts preparation, payroll, VAT returns, business planning, and cloud accounting software support tailored to small businesses.
Do you specialise in any particular industry sectors?
Yes, we specialise in contractor accounting, equestrian businesses, medical professionals, and residential property investment sectors.
Can you help with personal tax matters?
We offer personal tax planning, inheritance tax advice, self-assessment returns, and tax investigation support from our chartered tax advisors.
What accounting software do you support?
We support Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, and FreeAgent platforms with certified expertise and implementation assistance.
How do you support client business growth?
Through business clubs, referral networks, and strategic financial advice that helps clients improve cashflow and operational efficiency.
Are you available for face-to-face meetings?
Yes, we offer in-person meetings at our Edinburgh office with free parking, or can visit clients at their preferred location.
Reviews (7)
Nikki Simpson
Apr 16, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
I've worked with Aleksandra at Johnston Smillie for the past two years and have been so impressed by her work - no mucking about, straight to the point, knows exactly what I'm talking about before I've even voiced it - highly recommended!
I've worked with Aleksandra at Johnston Smillie for the past two years and have been so impressed by her work - no mucking about, straight to the point, knows exactly what I'm talking about before I've even voiced it - highly recommended!
Allan Lloyds C.
Feb 26, 2021
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We engaged Johnston Smillie in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic and they've supported us though the toughest year we've experienced since starting the company. In addition to our day to day accounting they've managed our JRS claims and helped us with funding applications.
Debbie, Kris and the team have had our back throughout; we kept our heads above water and we couldn't have managed it without them. Having an accountant like this supporting your company doesn't just save you time or money, it can keep you in business.
Debbie, Kris and the team have had our back throughout; we kept our heads above water and we couldn't have managed it without them. Having an accountant like this supporting your company doesn't just save you time or money, it can keep you in business.
Ewan Nicolson
Dec 05, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Running a business can be tough but when you have companies like Johnston Smille to rely on it really does help.. Whether it be business advisory, accounts, tax, payroll as well as the excellent work they do to raise funds for important local causes, they consistently provide an excellent service and support.
Running a business can be tough but when you have companies like Johnston Smille to rely on it really does help.. Whether it be business advisory, accounts, tax, payroll as well as the excellent work they do to raise funds for important local causes, they consistently provide an excellent service and support.
Joanna Stypczynska
Sep 24, 2020
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Critical:Professionalism,Quality,Value
They dont know absolutely nothing about rules in this Country. They cant help nobody because they dont have no authority to anything. An ordinary amateur!
They dont know absolutely nothing about rules in this Country. They cant help nobody because they dont have no authority to anything. An ordinary amateur!
Triona Clarke
Sep 04, 2020
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David and the team at Johnston Smillie have been looking after us and our business since 2006. Papilio is a small family run restaurant but running a business is hard, particularly now, and it would be impossible without the help provided by David and his team with Tax, VAT, Year End Accounts, Payroll, Staff Pensions etc., general accounting advice and help with software packages the list is endless. I have been blown away by the support provided during the current COVID-19 pandemic, from the very first day of lockdown. The help, guidance, superb Coronavirus regular updates (Lea, David and
Mike Stevenson
Jul 18, 2020
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I am not a serial reviewer, so it takes something special to prompt me to take to the keyboard. Over a number of years, through thick and thin, through ups and downs Johnston Smillie has been there for me timely advice, friendly guidance and of course, getting my accounts over the line. Their friendship and patience through difficult times has meant more to me than they could ever imagine. I am ever grateful for that. Someone asked me recently what I look for in an accountant it is professionalism of course. But its more. Its up to the minute insight into the policy environment (their
Mikill
Aug 13, 2017
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When starting my business the accounting and tax side was a little daunting to me. I was referred to Johnson Smillie and I am so happy I contacted them. Having my accounts handled by them gives me so much comfort and it truly feels like I have a full team of experienced professionals supporting me and my company. Any problems or concerns I have are handled immediately and professionally. I strongly recommend the services of Johnston Smillie!
