With You. Leading the way.

David was the Managing Director of Yates & Co Chartered Accountants for 30 years, having founded the company in 1994 at the tender age of 28. He specialises in looking after all aspects of SME’s, particularly focusing on construction, management consultancy and tax work. He loves finding solutions to client’s problems!

Being a firm believer in teamwork, he subscribes to the opinion that every team member is equal and has a valuable contribution to make. David demands that all our clients get the best advice and service possible – we must always do our best.

The recent Yates & Co merger with EQ is an exciting chapter for David and his team – in particular the provision of specialist backup and support from liked-minded people will greatly enhance the staff and client experience.

Outside the office, he enjoys the golf course and travelling abroad with his wife Dianne and two children.

Darren Thomson was the Managing Director of DH&Co and has worked with the firm for over 25 years prior to the merger with EQ when he became a partner. He undertook his CTA and ATT as he worked and became a specialist in all tax matters.

Darren has a wide range of knowledge in specialist tax areas such as IHT, CGT, family trusts, corporation tax and VAT as well as in succession and retirement planning for his clients. He takes pride in delivering his advice in a straight-talking and comprehensive, yet personal manner.

When asked what he enjoyed most about working at EQ, Darren replied that it was the chance to help solve the problems of his clients and identify the opportunities in which he could save them tax. His main client goal is to deliver, sometimes complex, tax strategies in a clear and friendly manner. He doesn’t just talk about ideas and solutions, but he helps to deliver them and to see them through to complete implementation.

Sheryl Macaulay is a Partner at EQ, bringing over two decades of experience to the firm. She began her career at DH&Co in 2002, prior to its merger with EQ, where she received her training to become a fully qualified FCCA.

With a strong foundation in accounts, Sheryl now specialises in tax planning, offering expert guidance on corporate matters such as restructuring and succession planning as well as specialising in Capital Allowances. Her deep understanding of various industries, particularly property and construction, allows her to provide tailored advice to a diverse range of clients.

Sheryl also has extensive knowledge in other more personal tax planning areas such as CGT and IHT together with a strong background in family Trusts.  Although traditionally corporate and personal planning were seen to be separate specialisms, more often these intertwine, and Sheryl can provide a well-rounded view.

Sheryl is known for her proactive and personal approach. She values the relationships she builds with clients, becoming a trusted advisor and helping them plan for the future. Along with the relationships she builds with clients, a highlight of working at EQ for Sheryl is the brilliant team of staff and the collaborative environment she works in.

Outside of work, Sheryl’s dedication to building meaningful relationships extends to her personal life. She enjoys skiing and socialising with friends and is an avid supporter of her son Ryan’s rugby team. Sheryl also enjoys city breaks with her daughter Morran, valuing moments with her family.

Caroline Tice joined DH&Co in 1993, before becoming a director in 2003 until the merger with EQ in 2024, before which she graduated with a degree in Business Studies from Edinburgh Napier University. She qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1997 through the Institute of Chartered Accountants Scotland. Caroline’s favourite thing about working at EQ is the staff, they are a great bunch – one big family!

Whilst Caroline specialises in auditing and charities, she enjoys the variety of clients EQ has the honour of getting to know and work with.

Caroline’s main client goal is to provide a high-quality service and support by knowing their business and personal affairs in-side out; this attitude is shared throughout the EQ team.

Caroline enjoys spending family time with her partner Bryan, twin daughters and two cocker spaniels and loves going on city breaks abroad.

Victoria has worked with Douglas Home & Co since 2007, prior to the merger with EQ Accountants in 2024.

Victoria is a qualified Chartered Accountant. She started her training in accounts and audits and now specialises in tax planning. She is an expert in family succession planning and all areas of tax, including IHT, CGT, VAT, R&D, corporation tax and capital allowances. Being from a farming family, Victoria has a great understanding of agriculture, renewables and forestry. Victoria also sits on the Scottish Land & Estates Tax Committee.

When asked what she most enjoyed about working at EQ, Victoria said it was working with likeminded, truly proactive colleagues who care about their clients and are dedicated to providing them with the best advice.

Victoria lives with her farmer husband Steve, and her two children, Wilf, and Ernie. She comes from a farming family who also train racehorses and as such, her hobbies are mainly either helping at the races or cheering on family horses.

Mike joined Douglas Home and Co. in 1998 and was a director for 12 years, prior to the merger with EQ. He is a qualified CA, having studied through the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland, and he specialises in business advisory and tax planning.

Mike can cover many specialist areas, such as corporate restructuring, VAT, IHT, CGT, trusts, succession planning, income tax planning & corporation tax planning, but mainly focusses currently on Corporate and Capital Taxes.

When asked what he enjoyed most about working with EQ, Mike said it was the great staff and the great clients that he has been able to meet and work alongside over the years. As well as this, he says that it is the variety of work that sets EQ apart from other companies.

Mike is married with children so likes to spend lots of time with his family although tries to fit in as much CrossFit as family and work time allows!

Steven Todd is a seasoned professional who has been an integral part of EQ since 2008, ascending to the role of Partner in 2014. With a strong commitment to client success, Steven’s expertise lies in general practice, particularly within the construction sector. He thrives on providing tailored solutions to clients within his local community, supported by the global resources of EQ. Steven’s diverse clientele includes companies, sole traders, partnerships, and individuals, all benefiting from his personal approach and strategic insights. Beyond his professional pursuits, Steven is passionate about outdoor activities like golf, running, and cycling. He also dedicates his time to serving as a trustee of the Bruce Charitable Trust, offering financial aid to those in need in the Cupar area. At home, Steven finds joy in the company of his partner, Susan.

Scott joined EQ in 2009 before becoming a partner during the pandemic in April 2020. Scott’s favourite thing about working at EQ is that no two days are the same. He also enjoys working closely with his clients, especially family businesses, seeing them grow and achieve their goals with our guidance and assistance.

Scott is part of our specialist agriculture and leisure teams and specialises in tax efficient investment solutions (EIS). He primarily works with family farming businesses, SME’s and startups.

As new parents with a young baby, Scott and his wife Laura don’t have much free time but when they do, Scott enjoys golfing and going to the gym.

Ross joined EQ as a Partner in May 2016 from another firm of accountants. A member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Chartered Institute of Tax (CTA), he is a specialist in advising directors, shareholders, business owners and their families on their accounting and tax issues, across a wide range of industry sectors.

Ross enjoys getting to know his clients and working with them to help them achieve their commercial and life goals in a tax efficient manner. His accounting and tax expertise covers a wide number of areas, including, business restructuring, tax efficient remuneration, acquisitions and disposals, employee share incentives, business valuation and entrepreneurial tax advice.

Outside of work, Ross is a keen golfer and enjoys spending time with his young family.

Robert embarked on his journey with EQ in June 2003, steadily climbing the ranks to become a Partner in 2020, a testament to his dedication and exceptional skill set.

Robert thrives in EQ’s friendly atmosphere, where he finds genuine camaraderie and support. His expertise spans the domains of agriculture, inheritance tax, and succession planning, making him an invaluable asset to our team.

With a focus on agriculture and landed estates, Robert’s proficiency shines through in his tailored solutions for farmers and landowners alike. His deep understanding of the sector allows him to navigate its complexities, ensuring his clients receive the highest level of service and support.

Beyond his professional achievements, Robert spends his time with his wife and 2-year-old son. Managing his own farm and breeding Charolais Cattle, Robert embodies his passion for agriculture both personally and professionally.

When he’s not tending to his farm or serving our clients, Robert finds solace in country pursuits.

Rachel’s journey with EQ began in 2008, and over the years, she has become an indispensable asset to the firm, resulting in her promotion to Partner in 2020. Rachel thrives on the support shared with clients and colleagues alike, finding immense satisfaction in collaborative problem-solving. Her expertise spans various facets of accounting and tax, with a particular focus on business tax, transaction tax, and R&D. Rachel’s adeptness at navigating intricate business reconstructions has earned her recognition as a trusted advisor among her peers.

As a vital member of both the R&D team, and the healthcare team (including veterinary practices), Rachel contributes her insights to drive innovation and growth. Rachel’s client portfolio reflects her versatility, covering a diverse range of tax-related matters tailored to meet individual needs.

Beyond her professional commitments, Rachel loves to travel. Each year, she eagerly explores a new destination, immersing herself in all each new location has to offer. This blend of professional acumen and personal enrichment underscores Rachel’s dedication to excellence and client satisfaction at EQ.

Mark Wilken, brings over two decades of expertise in agricultural accounting and taxation to EQ. Since joining EQ in 1998, Mark has played an integral role in the firm’s success, resulting in his appointment as Partner in 2012.

Mark’s journey at EQ has been marked by a commitment to serving his clients in the rural sector. With a degree in Agriculture from Aberdeen University and a background as an agricultural consultant, Mark possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing farms and landed estates.

As a specialist in all forms of agriculture, contract farming, and farm budgeting, Mark provides invaluable insights and strategic guidance to clients seeking to optimise their financial performance. His expertise extends to tax planning, encompassing income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax, ensuring that clients benefit from tailored solutions to minimise their tax liabilities.

Mark’s dedication to the agricultural community is further demonstrated through his role as a co-author of EQ’s Agricultural Bulletin, where he shares his knowledge and insights with industry peers and stakeholders.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mark finds fulfilment in his personal pursuits. He lives in Dundee with his family and enjoys staying active through activities like gardening and cycling. A lifelong learner, Mark also indulges his passion for history through avid reading.

For Mark, the best part of working at EQ is working alongside his colleagues, who share his dedication to delivering exceptional client service.