Paul Shields - Partner at Johnston Carmichael
Paul has over 25 years’ experience working in accountancy practices in the North East and supporting regional businesses to thrive.
Founded in Scotland almost 90 years ago, Johnston Carmichael is one of the UK’s leading independent firms of chartered accountants and business advisers. The firm expanded into the North East in 2023, with an exciting new office in Newcastle City Centre, supporting job creation and opportunities for the region’s businesses.
What were your career ambitions growing up?
Not accountancy, funnily enough. Like most boys in the North East, I grew up playing sports, mainly football and cricket. I was always better at cricket, so my ambition was to become a professional cricketer. That didn’t quite work out but I’m lucky enough to still play and coach and my son loves it, so I still get to spend plenty of time at the cricket club.
Tell us about your experience in the North East?
I started my accountancy career more than 26 years ago, working at different regional practices and gaining experience working with some incredible businesses. Over the years I have met so many ambitious business leaders in the region and have a real understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges faced by North East businesses. I work across sectors but have a passion and specialism for the Engineering & Manufacturing sector. I love to work with regional businesses who are innovating and exporting to put the region on the map.
Tell us about your current role and what do you most enjoy?
I joined Johnston Carmichael as Partner to head up our Newcastle office. I’ve been fortunate to work with some great clients and brilliant colleagues, so the most enjoyable part of my role is helping both to achieve their ambitions. The North East business community is extremely tight-knit, and there has been a real willingness to get to know Johnston Carmichael, which has been so rewarding.
Why is Johnston Carmichael an exciting addition to the North East market?
Johnston Carmichael may be new to the region, but we are an established firm with nearly 90 years of experience. I think the timing of opening our Newcastle office couldn’t be better. Businesses are really open to getting to know us and to understand more about our sector expertise and what we bring as an independent firm. We have the flexibility to quickly adapt to the unique needs of local businesses, backed by the support and strength of a larger organisation and it’s well received.
What is your proudest business achievement?
I love helping to develop people and create new opportunities. I’ve been heavily involved in recruiting graduates and school leavers and supporting them throughout their professional exams. Seeing their relief and joy when they qualify and progress in their careers is extremely rewarding. I enjoy being able to play a role in shaping their professional journeys and contributing to their success.
How has your industry evolved in the last decade and what changes do you see in the next decade?
The industry has seen huge changes, largely due to the impact of COVID-19. The shift to cloud-based accounting solutions has allowed for a more mobile and agile approach. This flexibility allows team members to work in ways that best suit them, without the constraints of a traditional office environment. However, this shift has also brought new challenges, particularly with training. There have also been substantial increases in regulation, making it difficult to be a generalist within the industry. I think the next decade will bring further tech advancements, greater automation, and integration of AI, which will likely shift the focus of accountancy processes towards a more advisory role.
What’s next for the North East office?
Since selecting Newcastle as the location for our first North East office last year and hosting a fantastic launch event a few months ago in March, we’ve gone from strength to strength with a team of 12 and some great client wins. Our focus is to continue to bring in the best talent across all our service lines. We are also moving to a larger office space, which will enable us to expand to around 25 team members in the heart of Newcastle. The long-term plan for the office is to employ over 100 people and collaborate with even more brilliant clients!
Tell us about the team you work with.
I work alongside an excellent team right across the UK. With a headcount nearing 1,000, we benefit from a wealth of expertise and support as we continue establishing our presence in the North East. We have a team of specialists across a range of disciplines to support businesses here in the region. We also have a really strong VAT offering. I work closely with Alex Nicholson, who’s also in the Newcastle office, and who leads the VAT service line for the firm.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Some of the best advice I’ve heard is, “You only regret the things you don’t do.” Don’t let worries or the opinions of others hold you back; you’re not supposed to have all the answers. Embrace opportunities, try new things, and learn from every experience, as these will shape your future and help you grow both personally and professionally.
Who would be your four ideal dinner guests, alive or dead?
I think I would choose Shane Warne, Roy Keane, Tiger Woods, and Will Ferrell. In reality I’d probably settle for a dinner with my wife, Lucy, and our children, Isabella, Eva, and William.
How do you unwind outside of work?
Spending quality time with my family, enjoying a relaxing evening at home with a takeaway. I can often be found playing (badly, these days), coaching and watching cricket at Whitburn Cricket Club.
www.jcca.co.uk