Littlechild & Haley, established in December 2024, took home the national title at the UK StartUp Awards 2026, following its earlier success in the Wales category.
Paul Haley, a long-standing Barry resident, co-founded the business with Donna Littlechild.
Mr Haley said: “As a Barry resident, I am extremely proud to see a business founded in Wales receive recognition on the national stage.
“Winning the Wales award was a fantastic achievement in itself, but to then go on and be recognised as the UK’s Professional Services Firm of the Year is something very special.
“Barry has always been home to people with ambition, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.
“Throughout my career I have been fortunate to build businesses, support organisations and contribute to the local community, so it means a great deal to bring a national award back to South Wales.”
The award, presented during Ideas Fest, recognises the firm’s rapid growth and innovative approach.
Littlechild & Haley specialises in internal audit, risk, and assurance services across public, private and regulated sectors.
In less than two years, the consultancy has secured appointments across multiple sectors and earned a place on the NHS Internal Audit Framework.
Mr Haley said: “When Donna and I founded Littlechild & Haley, we had a clear ambition: to build the UK’s leading independent pure-play internal audit firm.
“This award is not the destination.
“It is an important milestone that provides independent recognition of what we are building and the difference our people-centred, relationship-focused approach is making for clients.”
Ms Littlechild also expressed her gratitude.
She said: “We are incredibly grateful to our clients, supporters, and professional networks who have supported us since we launched.
“To progress from winning in Wales to winning nationally is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of everyone involved with the business.”
The consultancy plans to continue its UK-wide growth from its Welsh base.
