At Manchester Digital, we like to interview our members to find out a bit more about what they do and their work in the Greater Manchester digital and technology sphere. This week, we're speaking with Catherine Wilks, Partner – Data, Analytics and AI at BDO, who are expanding its services beyond tax and accountancy to support businesses on their digital transformation journeys.
BDO has a strong reputation in tax and accountancy, but you're now expanding your digital services. What inspired the strategic move into digital transformation, and what unique value do you bring to the North West tech ecosystem?
BDO’s move into digital transformation was a natural evolution driven by our clients’ changing needs. However this is not a new thing, we have been offering digital services since before the pandemic!
Businesses across the North West and the UK more broadly are navigating increasingly complex digital landscapes. We recognised that to remain a trusted advisor, we needed to offer more than traditional services. Our expansion into digital allows us to support clients to advise, assure, transform and run their business.
What sets us apart is our ability to combine deep sector expertise with cutting-edge digital capabilities. We are a Microsoft Cloud Solutions Partner and a specialist in all of Microsoft’s six solution areas – we won several Microsoft Partner of the Year awards in 2024 which is pretty cool! However we’re not just implementing technology, we’re helping businesses unlock strategic value. In the North West, we bring a unique blend of global insight and local understanding, supporting the region’s thriving tech ecosystem with scalable, sustainable solutions.
Your data analytics and AI team is growing in Manchester. What emerging technologies or digital trends are you most excited about, and how do you see them reshaping business innovation in the region?
We’re particularly excited about the convergence of AI, automation and behavioural science. Generative AI is transforming how businesses approach everything from internal operations to customer engagement. However really at the root of it all, successful AI adoption is a people challenge to be solved.
In Manchester, we’re seeing a surge in demand for these technologies across sectors, particularly in professional and financial services. The region’s collaborative spirit and strong academic base make it an ideal environment for innovation. Our growing team is focused on helping businesses harness these trends responsibly and effectively, ensuring they translate into real-world impact.
As a global professional services firm with a local focus, how does BDO balance international expertise with the specific needs of North West businesses?
BDO’s strength lies in our ability to operate globally while thinking locally. Our international network gives us access to best practices, emerging technologies, and cross-border insights. But in the North West, we’re deeply embedded in the business community. We understand the regional challenges whether it’s scaling sustainably, navigating regulatory change or accessing talent.
We tailor our services to reflect the local economic landscape, while drawing on global expertise to help businesses compete on a broader stage. It’s a balance that allows us to deliver both relevance and reach.
You've spoken about building a business in the North West. Can you share an example of a recent digital project that demonstrates BDO's commitment to driving regional technological advancement?
A standout example is our partnership with one of the UK’s largest dental care providers, headquartered in Greater Manchester. The business had an ambitious vision to digitise their services however was hampered by aging platforms.
BDO supported through a full digital transformation journey, beginning with process mapping and systems selection, and guiding them toward a modern cloud-based architecture. Our team provided programme leadership, strategic advisory, infrastructure build, data migration and cyber security services. They now have the right foundations in place to fulfil their vision and continue to deliver the best possible service to patients.
The project reflects our commitment to helping regional businesses unlock real value through technology by combining strategic insight with hands-on delivery.
What advice would you offer to emerging tech professionals or businesses seeking to scale in the North West, drawing on BDO's experience and insights?
First, stay close to your community. The North West has a vibrant tech scene and collaboration is key through accelerators, universities and peer networks.
Second, build with scalability in mind. From data infrastructure to governance, laying strong foundations early will pay dividends as you grow.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of trusted advice. Whether it’s navigating funding, compliance or digital strategy, having the right support can accelerate your journey.
At BDO, we’re passionate about helping businesses scale with confidence.
Thank you Catherine!
Click here to find out more about BDO Digital.
