Clarity and confidence

I started Ascend Advisory in July 2024 because I wanted to give business owners and leadership teams the kind of financial support that’s practical, flexible, and genuinely useful as they grow.

I’m a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser, and have over a decade's experience working with a wide range of businesses—including six years as a Partner in an accountancy firm. What I found time and again was that many SMEs needed more than the usual year-end accounts and compliance. They wanted someone to help them think strategically about their finances; but not every business needs (or can justify) a full-time Finance Director or CFO.

That’s where I come in. My aim is simple: to give you the clarity and confidence to make better financial decisions.

I work closely with my clients' teams, adapt to what each business needs, and keep things as straightforward as possible. Sometimes that means rolling up my sleeves and working alongside your staff, at other times it’s about helping you step back and see the bigger picture.

Whether you’re looking to improve cash flow, prepare for investment, plan your exit, or just get peace of mind about where your business stands, I’ll be there to guide and support you.

You'll find a full list of the services I offer here and you can take a look at the testimonials page to see how I’ve helped other clients do just that.

Outside of work my wife, Natalie, and I love to travel, we try to explore a new country/city or two each year. I enjoy good food, frequently trying new restaurants and also new recipes myself in the kitchen.

Natalie will also likely tell you that I spend far too much time on the golf course at the weekend, especially during the summer months!

Matt Lightfoot, BSc FCA CTA
Ascend Advisory