PEM celebrates 150th anniversary

Founded in 1875 by brothers Robert and Ebenezer Peters, who were later joined by William Elworthy and Frank Moore, this prestigious firm has grown from modest beginnings into a thriving, modern practice that has become an integral part of Cambridge’s business landscape.

A legacy of growth and innovation

Over the past century and a half, PEM has evolved from a small accounting practice to become one of the region’s premier independent professional services firms, now employing over 260 people. The firm’s commitment to excellence has seen it serve generations of clients, from individuals and sole traders to Cambridge colleges, family-run businesses, and large corporate entities.

During such impressive growth, the firm has maintained the personal touch and local expertise that sets it apart while also offering international reach through its membership of Kreston Global, a network of over 27,500+ people spanning more than 150 accounting firms across 100 countries.

Comprehensive service portfolio

PEM’s multidisciplinary services reflect the diverse needs of modern businesses and individuals across Cambridgeshire. The firm specialises in multiple industry sectors including owner-managed businesses, technology companies, property and professional firms, medical practices, agriculture, and charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Being at the heart of the city’s community for 150 years has positioned PEM as a trusted advisor to Cambridge’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem from ambitious start-ups and fast-growing scale-ups to established industry leaders, with services tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals, at every step of their journey.

Continuing the legacy of providing traditional accounting and tax services, PEM offers corporate finance, audit services, a virtual finance office, and comprehensive business advisory services. The firm’s holistic approach ensures clients receive integrated support across all aspects of their financial and business challenges and opportunities.

Celebrating in style

The 150th anniversary celebrations have been nothing short of spectacular, reflecting the firm’s deep connection to Cambridge and its community. In June 2025, almost 200 team members gathered at Barrington Hall for a festival-style summer party featuring live music, street food, garden games, and dancing.

Partner and Chair Sanchia Norris emphasised the significance of the milestone, saying: “Our 150-year legacy within Cambridge is something we are proud to be part of. 

“Playing a key role within our historic city is something we want to build on, and there is much to look forward to as we work towards this.”

The celebration continued with an ambitious sporting challenge in July, where 51 team members collectively completed 1,500 kilometres through walking, running, and cycling across Cambridgeshire. This challenge not only commemorated the anniversary but also raised funds for the PEM Charitable Trust, demonstrating the firm’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the local community.

Community impact and values

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of PEM’s anniversary celebrations has been the firm’s ongoing commitment to community impact through the PEM Charitable Trust. Launched in 2018, the Trust has set an ambitious goal to donate 150 grants to local charities throughout 2025, with grants of up to £2,000 available to Cambridgeshire-based charitable and non-profit organisations. This initiative reflects PEM’s ethos of meaningful, personal giving back to the community that has supported its growth for 150 years.

The landmark anniversary celebration at St John’s College brought together current and retired partners, clients, and members of the wider Cambridge business community. 

John Gourd, CEO of Cambridge Network, praised the event and highlighted the long-standing relationship between the organisations, noting Cambridge Network’s commitment to continued collaboration with PEM in the years ahead.

Gourd commented: “Cambridge Network values our long-standing relationship with PEM and looks forward to building on it through continued collaboration in the years to come.”

Looking forward

Managing Partner, Warren Tilbury, has articulated a clear vision for PEM’s future, with their commitment to innovation and investment in its people while staying true to the values that have guided the firm for 150 years. 

“2025 is a very special year for PEM. We’re proud of our heritage but even more excited about what lies ahead,” Tilbury stated.

“Our journey has always been guided by the trust of our clients, and we are honoured to be part of their journey too.”

The firm’s forward-looking approach is evident in its hosting of the Kreston UK and Ireland Conference 2025 in Cambridge, bringing together professionals from across the network to share knowledge and best practices. This positioning of Cambridge as a hub for professional excellence aligns with PEM’s role as a leader in the local business community.

PEM was also a sponsor of this year’s fantastic Cambridge Tech Week, marking an exciting first for the firm. Their sponsorship is a natural extension of its ongoing strategy to support innovation, both within Cambridge and across the wider region, and plays a key part of their plan to deepen their impact in the Cambridge community while building a modern, forward-thinking firm on the foundations of their 150-year legacy.

A Cambridge institution

As Cambridge continues to evolve as a global centre for innovation, technology, and academic excellence, PEM’s 150th year represents the enduring importance of trusted professional services in supporting business growth and community development. PEM’s combination of deep local knowledge, international connectivity, and unwavering commitment to client service has established it as more than just an accounting firm, it has become a true Cambridge institution.

With its strong foundation, dedicated team of professionals, and client-centric vision for the future, PEM is well-positioned to continue serving the Cambridge business community for generations to come. 

The next chapter of this remarkable story promises to build on 150 years of excellence while embracing the opportunities and challenges of an ever-evolving business landscape.

*Article supplied by PEM.