About Wilds Chartered Accountants

Personal, Proactive, Professional

At Wilds Chartered Accountants, we do more than crunch numbers – we’re here to help you shape the future of your business. With roots dating back to the 1930s, Wilds has grown into an award-winning practice trusted by owner-managed businesses across Manchester, Blackburn, the Ribble Valley, the wider Northwest, and further afield.

Why Wilds?

What sets us apart is our people. With three partners and a dedicated team of 30, many of whom have been with us for over 15 years, we bring a depth of expertise and a personal touch that’s hard to find elsewhere. Large enough to handle complex challenges but small enough to provide a tailored service, we’re committed to knowing your business as well as you do.

Our Approach: It’s All About You

We know that every business owner has unique aspirations and challenges, but many share common goals: growth, stability, and success. At Wilds, our mission is to work alongside you to turn those goals into reality. Whether you need help resolving complex tax issues, scaling your business, or navigating unexpected hurdles, we’re here to provide clear guidance at every step.

Our focus is on making your life easier, so you can concentrate on what you do best – running your business.

Here’s how we stand out:

Fixed Fees & Unlimited Support

No hidden surprises. Our fixed-fee structure includes unlimited telephone support, so you can get advice whenever you need it without worrying about extra costs.

Proactive Business Advisory

Beyond compliance and tax minimisation, we help you plan for the future. We’re not just here to tell you where you’ve been; we’re here to help you decide where to go next.

Long-Standing Relationships

Our clients value our warmth, reliability, and commitment. We’ve built strong partnerships by supporting businesses through both triumphs and challenges.

Expertise You Can Trust

From sole traders to groups of companies, we work with a diverse range of clients, providing bespoke solutions that align with your ambitions. With experience that extends far beyond small practices, our team brings the insight and innovation needed to help your business thrive.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re seeking expert advice, proactive planning, or just someone who truly understands your business, we’re here to help. Contact us today to see how Wilds Chartered Accountants can make a difference.

Meet the Team

Lyanne Higginbottom

Managing Director

With over 20 years at Wilds, Lyanne brings a wealth of experience in audit, accounts, and business advisory services.

Her role is twofold: supporting clients in achieving their ambitions and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. Having trained in both small and large firms, as well as gaining international experience in Germany, Lyanne offers a well-rounded perspective that blends strategic insight with practical know-how. Her expertise lies in helping clients create adaptable strategies, serving as a trusted sounding board, and guiding them toward long-term success.

Within Wilds, Lyanne is dedicated to developing the next generation of talent, nurturing team members from the moment they join and supporting their growth every step of the way. She takes pride in the long-standing relationships she has built, having worked with some of her clients and team members for the entirety of her 20 years at Wilds. Her leadership style is grounded in working hard but smart, with an emphasis on maintaining balance and taking regular breaks to stay at her best.

What drives Lyanne most is the opportunity to connect with clients, help them overcome challenges, and see their businesses thrive. Outside of work, she finds inspiration in her father’s example and stays motivated by ticking items off her bucket list year after year. Her favourite motto? Seize the day.

Lyanne

Away from the office, Lyanne is a dedicated mum to her teenage daughter and the proud owner of a baby tortoise named Spike. Known to friends as Lan Shells, her persistence is her superpower – whether tackling challenges at work or trying something new each year. From trampolining in caves and soaring down zip wires to leisurely walks with llamas, Lyanne believes life is about making memories.

When it comes to music, her playlists feature a mix of songs from different artists, while her go-to films include A Good Year and she enjoys watching the TV series Lincoln Lawyer. She loves the energy and diversity of cities like New York and London, though Barbados holds a special place in her heart for its laid-back vibe and welcoming people.

Despite her driven nature, Lyanne describes herself as surprisingly laid-back outside of work. She supports Cancer Research UK and reflects fondly on one of her boldest adventures – working in Germany with only GCSE-level German, a challenge that taught her resilience and adaptability. Looking ahead, her goals include seeing her vision for Wilds come to life and, one day, having the freedom to enjoy more time with family, including any future grandchildren.

Jacky Buchsbaum

Director

With over 30 years at Wilds Chartered Accountants, Jacky has been a key figure in shaping both the firm and the success of its clients.

After training at a medium-sized firm in London, he returned to Manchester, gaining experience in smaller practices before joining Wilds in 1995. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in the firm’s development, including leading the team responsible for winning the AVN Firm of the Year Award in 2009.

Jacky is a trusted adviser to his clients, acting as a sounding board for their day-to-day decisions as well as guiding them through major business milestones – whether that’s acquisitions, disposals, family reorganisations, estate planning, or HMRC investigations. His “can-do” attitude and open mind mean that he always seeks solutions, ensuring that both the firm and its clients continue to move forward.

His passion lies in seeing clients’ dreams progress from vision to reality – helping business owners strategise, adapt, and achieve long-term success. Having played an integral role in introducing industry-leading IT systems at Wilds, Jacky is always looking ahead, ensuring that both the firm and its clients embrace innovation to stay competitive. His professional philosophy? “Keep moving forward, and always have a Plan B and a Plan C.”

Jacky

A dedicated family man, Jacky finds his greatest motivation in seeing the smiles on his granddaughters’ faces. Originally from Salford, Jacky has a relentlessly positive outlook and a light-hearted approach to life. He enjoys light rock music, fantasy novels like the Harry Potter series, and unwinding with films from various genres. 

Jacky is also passionate about travel, with Nice being a firm favourite. He loves the warm weather and great food options, making it his go-to destination when he gets the chance to unwind.

Over the years, Jacky has also been actively involved in community organisations, holding leadership roles in two charities. Though he no longer has current commitments, giving back has always been an important part of his journey. 

As for his personal goal? “To have a long and active retirement.” But until then, he remains dedicated to supporting his clients, Wilds Group, and the ever-evolving world of business.

Paul Higginbottom

Director

With over 22 years at Wilds, Paul has been instrumental in the progression of the company, playing a key role in developing staff and supporting clients.

As Director and Accounts and Tax Advisor, he’s known for his hard work, determination, and practical approach to helping clients stay compliant and achieve better outcomes.

With a strong work ethic and a background shaped by entrepreneurial parents, Paul understands what it takes to run a successful venture. He’s passionate about refining strategies to deliver results, – both within the business and for the clients he supports.

Wilds Ltd icon

Manchester-born Paul is a proud dad, uncle, and great-uncle – with family playing a big role in his life. When he’s not at work, he enjoys watching sport (particularly football and rugby), and taking on new challenges… even if they push him out of his comfort zone. Despite a fear of heights, he’s conquered some of the world’s tallest buildings and rollercoasters!

Paul has an impressive DVD collection, with favourites including Gladiator and the James Bond series. He has a quirky streak, with standout pieces at home like a backwards clock and a hand-shaped chair. He’s a fan of Queen, enjoys Jack Reacher books, and loves exploring new cultures and cuisines. His favourite destination so far? Tokyo – a city where tradition and modern life collide, leaving a lasting impression.

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