Mark Summerson

Leaving school at 16 and still unsure what to do, I managed to stumble on a profession I was quite good at and gained an accountancy apprenticeship with a small local practice. As such, it seemed like a sensible idea to continue this career path.

After completing my AAT exams at 18-years-old, I joined a larger accountancy firm with offices in Durham and Newcastle, where I spent the next 20 years. During this time, I progressed from trainee to senior manager while also studying for my ICAEW qualification, becoming a qualified Chartered Accountant in 2010.

I have over 20 years’ experience in VAT, management accounting, statutory accounts and audit, working with various clients including private limited companies, Not-For-Profit organisations and Academy Trusts. Looking for a fresh challenge and impressed with the overall firm, I joined Anderson Barrowcliffe in February 2026 as a senior audit and accounts manager. I really enjoy building relationships and getting to know clients, and I look forward to contributing to the continued success of the team.

Outside of work, I spend my weekends following Sunderland AFC around the country (Booo!!) with varying, usually low, levels of success. When not at a football stadium, I spend my spare time walking with my wife, daughter and dog, exploring the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors as much as possible.

My idol is Brian Clough; a footballing hero in both Middlesbrough and Sunderland. My favourite quote of his, when dealing with his players, is - “We talk about it for twenty minutes and then we decide I was right”, which I can certainly relate to!