Meet Ernesta Novikova, the Bailie Bookkeeper, a person with a head for figures and a heart for people.

Meet the Bailie Bookkeeper

Ernesta has a head for numbers and a heart for people

In a cozy corner of the Bailieborough Business Centre, a fresh face is rewriting the story of bookkeeping. To most people, crunching numbers and balancing books might sound like a tedious task. But for Ernesta Novikova, it’s a calling — a hands-on, people-first profession that combines precision with purpose.

With a genuine smile and a no-nonsense work ethic, Ernesta is the founder of Bailie Bookkeeper Limited, a professional service for the community with a thoughtful, client-centred approach. More than just tapping a calculator, she’s on a mission to help small business owners thrive by taking one major stressor off their plate: the books.

“Let them do what they do best, and I do what I do best to help their business,” she says with conviction — a quote that sums up her ethos and the heart of her business. Ernesta is a qualified Accounts and Payroll Technician, a full member of Accounting Technicians Ireland and Irish Payroll Association - providing small businesses, farmers, contractors, landlords, start-ups and self-employed individuals the improvement, change and relief to know that all paperwork is up to date and the business can plan with real numbers.

Bailie Bookkeeper is now opening an office with a team of Accounting Technicians, so that Ernesta can continue doing what she deems most important: delivering the personal touch. Ernesta knows the power of community. Starting her own business wasn’t just about entrepreneurship — it was about giving back. “I’ve seen so many small businesses struggle with their books, not because they’re doing anything wrong, but because they just don’t have the time or the knowledge,” she says. “That’s where I come in.”

Her approach is refreshingly practical. No jargon, no judgment — just clarity, consistency, and a can-do attitude. Ernesta helps clients understand their numbers, make better financial decisions, and breathe a little easier knowing that someone trustworthy has their back.

From setting up systems for businesses to cleaning up books for companies that have fallen behind, Ernesta rolls up her sleeves and gets to work. Her hands-on style means she doesn’t just hand over reports — she walks her clients through them, answering questions and offering guidance every step of the way. She guides them on how to use technologies, provides clients with the software to keep track of invoices and receipts, and easily access them through the phone.

The results speak for themselves: From a continuously filling shoeboxes, clients go to a clean, organised accounts tab. And, as a result, they can tell exactly where they stand financially, their tax affairs are in order, a tax clearance certificate from revenue issued and the door to a clearer financial future is opened. This is the vital step to grow the business. As a addition, sales invoices are sent automatically on a regular basis, not just when the client remembers to bill for services or products. All in all, such systems create a real-time overview of income and a stable cashflow.

For Ernesta, bookkeeping isn’t boring — it’s fun. And yes, she means it. It’s clear she doesn’t just work with numbers — she works with people. And that human connection is what makes all the difference. “My goal and intention are to inspire people to follow their dreams, to do what they love and make a living from it”, says Ernesta. She is here to support along the way.

From day one, Ernesta knew she wanted to do more than just offer a service. She wanted to build relationships. She takes the time to understand her clients — what drives them, where their challenges lie, and what success looks like for them. Whether it’s a self-employed person just getting started, or a small local shop trying to grow, she gives each business the same care and attention.

Ernesta isn’t the type to work remotely from behind a screen. She’s out there — visiting shops, sitting down over coffee, and checking in regularly. Her services are tailored, never one-size-fits-all. She understands that every business is different and takes pride in creating custom solutions that fit individual needs. Whether it’s weekly check-ins, monthly reports, or year-end support for tax season, she adapts to what works best for her clients. And it’s not just about keeping things organised. Her insights often reveal opportunities and areas for improvement that help business owners make smarter decisions.

For anyone feeling buried in receipts, confused by their bank statements, or just in need of someone who genuinely gets it, Bailie Bookkeeper Ltd is the solution. With a head for numbers and a heart for people, Ernesta is bringing bookkeeping to a new level.

DIGITAL SOLUTIONS

The Bailie Bookkeeper offers professional bookkeeping and payroll services, providing digital services to clients remotely.

The focus is on meeting client needs by saving them costs and time through efficient and reliable digital bookkeeping solutions:

• Income Tax Returns • VAT Returns • RCT

• Payroll Processing • Business Start-Up

Opening hours:

Open 10am to 4pm,

Monday to Friday.

To find out more about the services offered by Ernesta, click here.