Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chartered Accountants in Oxford
Established in 1983, Mercer Lewin has built a reputation for delivering clear, client-focused accounting solutions. Our team of experienced professionals combines technical expertise with practical industry knowledge to address complex financial challenges. With directors who have held board-level positions outside traditional practice, we offer strategic insights beyond conventional accounting services. Our commitment to personalized service ensures clients receive tailored advice aligned with their specific needs. We serve diverse sectors including charities, property, technology, and creative industries, supported by a strong network of specialist consultants. Our membership in Heads Together, a UK-wide association of accounting firms, enhances our technical capabilities through collaborative knowledge-sharing.Over four decades, we have successfully guided businesses through market transitions and ownership changes, maintaining long-standing client relationships built on trust and familiarity. Our team's deep local roots and sector-specific expertise enable us to provide contextually relevant financial guidance. We prioritise transparency in all communications, ensuring clients fully understand their financial position and strategic options. This enduring approach has made us a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable, forward-thinking accounting support.
Services
Statutory audit
Tax returns
Company formation
Inheritance tax planning
Payroll services
Management accounts
Corporate tax planning
Probate planning
Charity audit
VAT returns
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in chartered accountancy services
- Our team includes specialists in charity accounting and church finance
- We provide industry-specific insights from board-level experience
- Our membership in Heads Together enhances technical capabilities
- We maintain long-standing client relationships through personalized service
Services
Statutory audit
Our statutory audit services ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while providing valuable business insights. We conduct thorough examinations of financial statements, maintaining independence and objectivity. Our audit approach combines technical expertise with sector-specific knowledge to identify risks and opportunities that matter to your business.
Inheritance tax planning
We help clients develop effective inheritance tax strategies tailored to their personal and business circumstances. Our approach considers lifetime gifting, trust structures, and business relief opportunities. With our expertise in tax legislation, we aim to preserve wealth for future generations while maintaining compliance with HMRC requirements.
Charity audit
Specialist audit services for charities and church organisations, combining regulatory compliance with sector understanding. We ensure adherence to charity commission requirements while providing practical financial guidance. Our team includes experts with the ICAEW Diploma in Charity Accounting, offering tailored support for nonprofit entities.
Payroll services
Comprehensive payroll management covering salary processing, tax deductions, and regulatory compliance. We handle PAYE, auto-enrolment pensions, and HMRC reporting requirements. Our experienced team ensures accurate, timely payroll processing while keeping clients informed about changing employment tax legislation.
Company formation
Expert guidance for new business establishment, including company registration and tax registrations. We assist with choosing appropriate legal structures and initial tax planning. Our support extends to ongoing compliance requirements, helping new businesses establish strong financial foundations from day one.
People
Andrew Churchill Stone
Director
FCA qualified with 25+ years at Mercer Lewin, specialising in charity accounting and church finance. Leads technical matters and flat management company work. Active in performing arts and education sector.
Jon Swayne
Director
FCA qualified with industry experience in finance director roles across multiple sectors. Brings practical business insight to client advisory work. Focuses on school finance governance and outdoor activities.
Martin Mercer
Consultant
Founder with 40+ years experience, previously finance director at major hotel and travel groups. Provides strategic guidance while maintaining client relationships built since 1983. Active in sports and cultural activities.
Caroline Brown
Personal Tax Manager
ATT qualified with HMRC background, specialising in personal tax for diverse clients. Combines technical expertise with client-focused service delivery. Enjoys travel, social activities and winter sports.
Satya Maheshwari
Payroll Supervisor
Chartered Accountant from India managing payroll and auto-enrolment compliance. Handles HMRC liaison and client queries. Focuses on accuracy and regulatory compliance across payroll operations.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for charities?
We provide specialist audit and accounting services for charities, including Independent Examinations, compliance with Charity Commission requirements, and tax-efficient structuring. Our team includes ICAEW Diploma holders in charity accounting.
Can you help with business start-up services?
Yes, we offer comprehensive start-up support including company formation, tax registrations, and business structure advice. We guide new businesses through initial accounting requirements and ongoing compliance matters.
Do you provide payroll administration services?
We manage full payroll processing including PAYE, auto-enrolment pensions, and HMRC reporting. Our team ensures compliance with changing employment tax legislation while maintaining accurate payment records.
What inheritance tax planning services are available?
We develop tailored inheritance tax strategies considering lifetime gifting, trust structures, and business property relief. Our approach balances tax efficiency with clients' personal and business objectives.
How do you support property investors and managers?
We offer specialist accounting for property investors, including tax planning, compliance, and management reporting. Our experience covers residential and commercial property portfolios with complex ownership structures.
What makes Mercer Lewin different from other accountants?
Our combination of technical excellence, industry experience from board-level roles, and personal service approach sets us apart. We provide practical solutions informed by 40+ years' experience and membership in the Heads Together technical network.
