A financial advisory firm wants to “break the mould” of accountancy as it kick-starts a world first online platform.
Nexus Finance has been launched by Craig Hutcheon, founder of Aberdeen-based Hutcheon Mearns, and managing director Adam Maitland.
The launch of the new platform comes as the firm opens a new office in Dundee.
The Aberdeen-based company was founded in 2015 and has now opened its second office, at Dundee’s Water’s Edge.
Launching freelance hub for workers
Nexus Finance was launched to give workers in the financial sector the option of more flexible working.
Workers can create a profile outlining their skills and experience.
They will be paired with companies looking for financial expertise on a variety of contracts, as required.
Mr Hutcheon said: “We are breaking the mould. We are a hybrid accountancy firm.
“It’s an idea that has been on our project list for the last five or six years.
“My view of the future in finance is it’s going through a technological revolution.
“Eventually a lot of the manual tasks will be automated. The role of an accountant will become that they are more of an advisor.”
Mr Hutcheon said Covid-19 “accelerated” the pace with which Nexus Finance was born.
The Hutcheon Mearns founder explained the platform will allow workers to be “the master of their own destiny”.
He said anyone returning to work would be able to use the platform to pick up projects, while semi-retired people would also be able to use their skills on an ad-hoc basis.
Mr Hutcheon wants to get 1,000 people signed up for Nexus Finance in the next 12 to 18 months.
“I believe there will be a return to the office for many employees, but other people will like working from home,” he said.
“It will give them the autonomy to choose where and when they work.
“I think in the future it will no longer be 9-5. There will be a far more flexible workforce.”
Dundee a ‘natural fit’ for Hutcheon Mearns
Hutcheon Mearns, meanwhile, is beginning to recruit in Dundee after opening its new office.
The company founder said he was drawn to the city by its reputation for technological innovation.
Mr Hutcheon said: “We’re drawn in by the technological advances that come out of Dundee.
“It is such a centre of innovation.
“Part of our ethos is being innovative so it really fits with our business culture.
“It was a natural move for us to commit to Dundee being our first location outwith Aberdeen.”
Mr Hutcheon said though it was early days in Dundee for the business, things had started well.
“It’s such an exciting place to be.
“All of the projects that are being lined up, it is quite incredible.”