UK MGI's Noel Kelleway goes the distance for cancer charity
Accountants who wish to tackle a major global issue at their own local level could take a leaf out Noel Kelleway’s book. The highly experienced senior partner at MGI member firm Rickard Keen has been chosen to lead a major new campaign calling on people to take on their own running challenge to support the international fight against cancer.
Noel, who's a very active part of the Rickard Keen firm in the UK, will for the next year be the ‘Go the Distance ambassador’ for Cancer Research UK, which is the official charity partner for the Virgin Money London Marathon in 2015. There are 26 ambassadors, one for each mile of the course.
After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2012, Noel’s been dedicated to beating cancer ever since. He also has a strong family connection after losing both parents to cancer.
“Cancer Research UK is very close to my heart so I’m really pleased to have been asked to be an ambassador for the charity’s special year of running,” he said. ‘It was hard losing first one, then both my parents to cancer, and again when I was diagnosed myself. But, thanks to research, I’m still here today.”
Noel’s not competing in marathons himself these days, but has run 39 in the past after getting hooked on running aged 40.
It’s a great example of how firms can raise their profile through charity work and good causes. Lots of MGI firms already support charitable causes, but this is taking it on a step or two. Caner Research UK is a very important charity and Noel's involvement is testament to his energy and enthusiasm for not only beating cancer but also his very active involvement as a senior partner at Rickard Keen.
Noel joined Rickard Keen in 1972 and became a partner in 1978. He specialises in accounting for small and medium-sized businesses and is also an expert in forensic accounting, as well as shares and business valuations.
Meanwhile, Rickard Keen has been named as a finalist in this year’s Taxation Awards, hosted by Taxation magazine, under the category of Tax Practice in a Regional Firm. Tax partner Keith Bell said: “We are delighted that we have been shortlisted for such a prestigious award, and it is extra special as this is the third year in a row we have been shortlisted."
For more information on Noel and the rest of the team at Rickard Keen, check out the firm’s website. Alternatively you can see more on their MGI member profile page.