Introduction and Bio

Pratap Partnership has been in contact with Alex Abel from his days as a student accountant through to a Group Financial Controller.

Alex is an ACA-qualified finance leader with a career spanning 15 years, including senior roles in both practice and industry.  After training with top accountancy firms such as BDO and Grant Thornton, Alex quickly progressed to Audit & Accounts Manager before moving into industry roles where he has led finance teams in dynamic, high-growth environments. Currently Group Financial Controller at Milewood Healthcare - a private equity-backed healthcare provider - Alex has delivered major financial transformations, including new system implementations, acquisitions integration, and accelerating reporting cycles for senior leadership and investors.  Known for his collaborative leadership style, Alex is passionate about developing high-performing teams and providing the commercial insight that drives business growth.

Can you tell me what initially drew you to accounting and finance?

My Dad always wanted to be an accountant but never had the opportunity, so when I was choosing my A-levels, he suggested I give it a try. I took accounting at A-level and realised straight away that I enjoyed the logic, structure, and problem-solving that came with it. I was then fortunate enough to win a Kaplan scholarship, which covered the full cost of my studies from AAT through to whichever chartered qualification I chose. That was a huge incentive for me to take a different path - to go straight into a professional career rather than the traditional university route - and I’ve never looked back.

You have worked at several of the “big six” firms. How did those environments shape your professional outlook?

Working in those firms gave me a strong foundation in technical accounting and professionalism, but Grant Thornton in particular had a big influence on my outlook. I was constantly challenged to be self-sufficient, especially when it came to reading and interpreting accounting standards myself - something I had never been pushed to do before. That experience taught me to be proactive, curious, and confident in tackling complex technical issues, which has carried through into every role since. I also learned the importance of balancing technical rigour with clear communication, as clients don’t just need the numbers - they need the story behind them.

What motivated your shift from practice into industry roles?

After nearly a decade in practice, I wanted to be closer to the decision-making and day-to-day operations of a business. In audit, you see companies at a snapshot in time - but I wanted to help shape the story, not just report on it. Moving into industry gave me the opportunity to influence strategy, implement systems, and really drive change from within. I was ready to roll my sleeves up and make a direct impact.

You have now held Financial Controller roles at two rapidly growing companies. What have been some of the most rewarding - and most difficult - moments?

The most rewarding moments have been building teams and systems that genuinely transform the finance function. At Milewood Healthcare, for example, we implemented a new payroll system for 850 staff, built a finance team from scratch, and delivered the statutory audit ahead of schedule - all during a major period of change. Those projects were intense but incredibly satisfying.

On the flip side, the hardest moments have been managing restructures and redundancies. You have to make tough calls, but I’ve learned the importance of handling those situations with honesty, authenticity and empathy. It’s challenging, but it also makes you a better leader.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

From a young age, I’ve always wanted to push myself, but I’ve also had moments of self-doubt or a lack of confidence. What I’m most proud of is how my career has taught me that attitude is the most important quality - if you don’t have the resources, you can always be resourceful. I’ve progressed from trainee to Group Financial Controller by taking on challenges that initially felt outside my comfort zone, like building teams from scratch or leading complex financial transformations. Each time, I’ve proved to myself that persistence and the right mindset can carry you further than you might expect.

What is the one piece of advice you give to up-and-coming finance professionals?

When you’re young or just starting out, it’s easy to think success is all about intelligence or knowing the most technical detail. In reality, what matters just as much - if not more - is how well you work with others. The best finance professionals empower their teams, create trust, and show that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. Leadership isn’t about being the smartest in the room, it’s about being dependable and creating an environment where everyone can perform at their best. That’s something I’ve learned through experience, and it’s the advice I always share.

How do you like to spend your time away from the office?

I’m a proud father to two beautiful little girls and have an amazing wife (that I’ve been with since school!). We enjoy spending time together and with friends and family -it’s what gives me real perspective. When you face challenges at work or in life, it’s easy to think you’re alone, but being around loved ones reminds me that everyone is dealing with their own battles, often more than we realise.

I’m also passionate about my faith, which helps me navigate life’s challenges and reminds me of the importance of supporting others.