More About Us
Sara Otley, BA (Hons), FCMA, CGMA - Founder & Managing Director
After graduating from the University of Ulster with an accountancy degree, Sara trained in industry while studying towards her qualification with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. After gaining experience with JP Corry, Isaac Agnew and Almac Pharmaceuticals, Sara established SJO Business & Accounting Services in 2008. The business was then incorporated in 2015 and has continued to see significant growth since then. A mum of two girls, Sara has a love for music and enjoys spending time playing the piano as well as practicing yoga. She can often be found walking Luna, the office pup, who appreciates the walks when she isn’t too busy barking at visitors to the office or innocent passers-by.
Jane Hill, BAcc (Hons), FCA - Senior Manager
After graduating from university in Scotland with an accountancy degree, Jane began a training contract back in Northern Ireland, qualifying as a chartered accountant in 2005. Jane has gained a wide range of experience having worked in practice over the last 20 years, specialising in audit and forensic accounting. Shortly after becoming a Fellow of the Institute, Jane joined SJO Accountants in May 2019 and became engaged in all aspects of general practice, including accountancy, personal and corporate taxation. Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with her busy young family and practicing yoga when she can.
Ricardo Neufuss - Operations Manager
Ricardo has studied financial and managerial accountancy in Norwalk Community College and Western Connecticut State University, receiving his degree in 2018. After arriving in the UK, Ricardo continued to gain experience in bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial reporting by working for a variety of businesses in different industries such as energy sourcing, cyber security, interior design, distilling and retail. This experience has enhanced his technical capabilities and proficiency with accounting packages such as QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Xero, Sage 50, and VT. Ricardo is an avid golfer and has been part of the Donaghadee Golf Club since 2021, where he plays competitively in interclub events.
Jo-Anne Dunn - Payroll Manager
Jo-Anne is responsible for the management of our client payrolls here at SJO, and has over 20 years experience in the field of accounts and payroll processing. She has previously applied her talents to several accountancy firms in Scotland and England, as well as a previous role at the University of Dundee. A former payroll supervisor with MITIE Facilities Management, Jo-Anne brings a wealth of business experience to our team, ensuring a helpful and approachable service for our clients. Jo-Anne lives with her family in Newtownards and can often be spotted out and about with her beloved Patterdale Terrier, Tess.
Jessica Douglas - Accounts Technician
Jessica is an experienced accounts technician with a lengthy education focusing on commerce and finance. After completing her ATI Higher Level apprenticeship in 2021, Jessica joined the team at SJO and primarily works on our VAT, accounts and payroll services. When not at work, Jessica enjoys spending time at the gym and hanging out with her family.
​Lauren Otley - Assistant Accountant
Lauren completed her A Levels in French, Spanish and Psychology in June 2022 and having worked part-time with SJO Accountants in the past, joined the practice as a trainee accountant in September 2022. Lauren enjoys playing viola and has been involved in the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra for many years. She also sings and has performed in the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland.
Ciaran McKee - Trainee Accountant
Shortly after finishing his A-Levels, Ciaran joined SJO as a trainee accountant, and he is now working with several clients. When not at work, Ciaran enjoys visiting the gym and spending time online with friends.
Amanda Cameron - Credit Control & AML Officer
With experience in both billing and misclaims, Amanda is a member of our administration team with personal experience as an accounts assistant. This knowledge allows Amanda to provide excellent support when managing business documents as well as offering considerable skill in hospitality and affability. When not in the office, Amanda practices carpentry, refurbishing furniture and creating decorations.
Melanie MacFarlane - Client Support Associate
Melanie initially started out as an electronics technician, and has had extensive administrative experience throughout her career. Her friendly personality means she is approachable and supportive both for our clients and our team.
Outside of work, Melanie plays tenor sax for a concert band, and spends a lot of hours unsuccessfully trying to tire out her springer spaniel, Mack.