Deep dive: how Consilium helped Caldive unlock their business potential

In the world of maritime services and deep-sea diving, precision and data are paramount. Ross-shire-based Caldive Limited found themselves frustrated by a lack of financial insight and accurate figures needed to grow their global business. That was until they crossed paths with Consilium Chartered Accountants.

New accountants offer fresh opportunities for Caldive

In a business sector that relies on meticulous detail, Managing Director Iain Beaton was left feeling somewhat adrift.

“There was minimal engagement with our existing accountants and their approach was too reactive”, explains Iain. “As a global business, that level of support simply wasn’t acceptable.”

Thanks to a recommendation by Peter Hiddleston, one of Caldive’s advisors, Iain was introduced to Derek Shaw of Consilium Chartered Accountants.

“It was an eye-opener to see how passive Caldive’s accountants had become”, says Derek, an Accounts and Business Services partner with Consilium. “It was clear that Consilium could provide Iain and his team with a more effective accounts service.”

Working under pressure

The new relationship between Consilium and Caldive was not to be without its challenges. Primarily there was a significant amount of remedial work to address the historical shortcomings. Secondly, timings were tight; from the initial introduction in September 2023, a comprehensive financial overhaul was required before December 2023 filings were due.

In a testament to efficiency under pressure, Consilium swiftly prepared and analysed the annual accounts, with Caldive’s finance team providing crucial information rapidly. Consilium’s team of Gillian Drummond, Martin Kerr, Duncan McKellar and Evelyn McCammont then provided a complete rundown of the company’s finances and corporation tax position.

“The speed at which we have developed a strong working relationship with Iain, Peter and the Caldive finance team is a credit to everyone’s professionalism and commitment”, says Derek. “What would normally take at least a year to establish was achieved after just a few months.”

Within a few months of engaging with Consilium, Iain was armed with new insights and more confident about steering his business towards growth.

“To be honest, I came away from that first meeting feeling like a massive load had been lifted from my shoulders”, says Iain. “We were in need of change and that became clear once we started working with Consilium.”

Charting a new course towards growth for Caldive

Arguably the greatest achievement was the establishment of a strong relationship between Consilium and Caldive. Consilium has now become a cornerstone of guidance and support for Iain and his team. Not only did the Glasgow-based firm of chartered accountants provide the expertise to meet Caldive’s immediate needs, but they also charted a course for growth.

“Consilium has undertaken some incredible work for us”, says Iain. “I am so impressed by the Consilium operation in its entirety. I am looking forward to a long and successful relationship with the firm.”

Accounting and Business Services for ambitious companies

Our mission is to help clients achieve their goals in business. To achieve this, we help business owners ensure their financial matters are fully compliant and we provide useable data to allow them to make informed decisions.

Consilium provides a comprehensive range of Accounting and Business Services to business owners in Scotland and the UK. To learn more about how we can help your business succeed, please contact Accounting and Business Services partner, Derek Shaw.

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