A 25-year-old from Johnston Carmichael’s Inverurie team has been named Young Accountant of the Year at the Scottish Accountancy & Finance Awards.

Kayleigh Milne was hailed this year’s winner after being awarded a gold medal from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants for receiving top marks out of 14,500 other candidates worldwide, in her exams earlier this year.

Kayleigh, an Aberdeen University graduate, was nominated for the award by her colleague, Sarah from Aberdeenshire, who believed that she had what it took to scoop the accolade. As part of the selection process, Kayleigh travelled to Glasgow to attend an interview in front of a panel of judges.

Her win showcases her dedication to her studies, her excellent relationships with her clients, her efficiency and the innovative approach she has taken to her role.

Kayleigh said: “I’m so excited to have won this year’s Young Accountant award. I have worked extremely hard this year, so to get a national award is absolutely amazing.

“It’s very humbling to be recognised by the accountancy profession with such a prestigious award. The shortlist of nominees was very strong, so it was a complete surprise. I still can’t believe it!

Johnston Carmichael couldn’t have been more supportive. They completely understood the pressure I was under and the study leave and exam support helped me to perform at my best.

“I absolutely love working at  Johnston Carmichael. It gives me the chance to work with some great clients in a variety of sectors including agriculture and food and drink. I’m really looking forward to continuing my career with the firm.

Managing partner of the Inverurie office, Jim Porter said: “We are thrilled to see Kayleigh win the Young Accountant of the Year award. She has an outstanding work ethic and has put so much time and effort into her progression, it’s great to see her reap the rewards. We are lucky to have her on board.

“Kayleigh should be very proud of her achievements. She has done exceptionally well and has a very bright future ahead of her as a qualified accountant.

“With 2018 designated as the Year of Young People across Scotland, we are proud to have our own talented and inspirational young person right here in Inverurie.”