Andrew Scott never intended to become an accountant. Twenty-five years ago, he was undertaking a Bachelor of Business at the Auckland University of Technology, intending to specialise in Computer Science, when a curriculum change forced an unexpected decision. He chose accounting—not because of the numbers, but because of the people. “Aside from having a natural ability with numbers, I made some really good friends with people who were always going to be accountants or who had family that ran their own businesses. They were my people.”
That people-first instinct has shaped everything about Andrew’s approach to business advisory. Today, he manages one of UHY’s largest fee bases, but his focus remains unchanged: building relationships that span generations and celebrating his clients’ successes as if they were his own.
The relationship architect
“For many people, work is like your second family. You often find yourself spending more time with the people at work than you do at home,” Andrew explains. This philosophy extends naturally to his clients, many of whom he’s inherited from a retiring director who spent over 30 years building deep, loyal relationships.
But Andrew hasn’t just maintained these connections—he’s deepened them. He understands the lives behind the businesses, from family milestones to personal challenges. Whether it’s a quick update from a client about a grandchild or a call to talk through a tough decision, these moments reflect the kind of trust Andrew builds naturally
“You want to see those clients succeed, and you get to know their families and what they’re all doing,” he says. This depth of connection means Andrew doesn’t just provide accounting services—he becomes part of his clients’ extended support network.
The crisis navigator
Andrew’s commitment to client relationships means riding both the highs and lows together. During tough economic periods, he’s there helping clients navigate challenges like cashflow pressures, tax complexities, and business uncertainty. His recent success resolving a significant tax issue for a client illustrates how a partnership-driven approach can lead to meaningful, practical outcomes.
“You can imagine how that person must feel—it’s a huge relief,” Andrew reflects. While the client still has obligations to meet, removing a six-figure burden makes the path forward manageable rather than overwhelming.
This willingness to engage with complexity rather than shy away from it sets Andrew apart. He understands that real advisory work happens in the difficult moments, not just during the good times.
The growth strategist
Andrew’s analytical background serves him well when helping clients understand what their financial information really means. He works with two distinct client groups: those who need basic compliance (annual returns, financial reporting and tax department compliance) and those ready for the next level of strategic thinking.
“There’s this pivot point where you stop focusing solely on legitimately minimising tax and start wanting to show that your business has value and profitability.”
This transition often drives clients toward more sophisticated advisory relationships focused on building sellable, valuable businesses.
For clients ready to engage at this level, Andrew helps them understand profitability drivers, customer analysis, and the strategic changes needed to reach their goals. His approach goes beyond cost-cutting to focus on revenue optimisation, margin improvement, and building sustainable competitive advantages.
The succession facilitator
One of Andrew’s most satisfying aspects of long-term client relationships is watching the next generation step into leadership roles. As businesses face succession challenges—whether through family transition or employee buyouts—Andrew’s relationships often extend naturally to the incoming generation.
“There are plenty of examples where the baton is being handed to the next generation. It is deeply rewarding to see business evolve and provide opportunities to the next generation – not just preserving a legacy, but bringing fresh ideas and energy, and purpose to carry it forward,” he notes. This generational bridge-building ensures continuity while bringing fresh energy to established businesses.
The community cornerstone
Andrew’s commitment to community extends far beyond client relationships. His ten-year tenure as treasurer for the Waitakere City Athletic Club recently earned him life membership—recognition of sustained contribution that mirrors his approach to everything else.
“As well as my role with the Athletic Club, we act for several cricket clubs, football clubs and sports clubs, and we give back to those clubs in a number of ways beyond what we charge,” Andrew explains. This community consciousness reflects UHY’s broader philosophy of supporting the local ecosystem that supports them.
The balance seeker
Despite managing significant client responsibilities, Andrew maintains clear boundaries around work-life integration. As a father of three kids at different educational stages (primary, intermediate, and college), he’s learned that balance requires intentional choices.
His solution involves empowering others—creating space for leadership to grow, trusting those around him, and fostering a culture of ownership. This mindset is supported by taking time off after intensive periods, and prioritising presence at his children’s major events. Whether it’s coaching his son’s soccer team twice a week or attending graduations and sports competitions, Andrew demonstrates that professional success doesn’t require family sacrifice.
The trusted professional
Andrew’s advice to clients and prospective clients is straightforward: “Engage professionals, because as a working owner, you can’t do it all. You lose focus on what you’re good at.” This reflects his belief that trusted advisors play a critical role in helping business owners stay anchored in their strengths while navigating complexity. Andrew’s approach to quality is uncompromising:
“Whatever work you take on, it should meet your own high standard–because when you’re genuinely satisfied with the outcome, your client will be too.”
This standard ensures that every engagement is approached with a commitment to delivering value that earns trust.
The UHY ambassador
When asked what he wants people to know about UHY, Andrew returns to the fundamentals: “We’re about people—whether it’s staff, clients, or the families of our staff and clients. We’re about connecting people and possibility.”
This connection philosophy drives UHY’s current growth phase, with new pathways for staff. Andrew sees this not just as business expansion, but as a continuation of the firm’s longstanding tradition of developing people and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Twenty-five years after choosing accounting because of the people, Andrew has built a career defined by trust, insight, and impact. His journey proves that strong relationships and technical excellence aren’t opposing forces—they’re complementary strengths. By combining personal connection with technical expertise, Andrew helps clients not only understand their numbers but also use them to shape meaningful, long-term success.
