BDO appoints new head of charities

BDO announced it has appointed Jill Halford as national head of charities.

Halford, having joined the firm as a partner in November 2019, brings with her over 20 years of experience advising a wide range of charities across all sectors.

She also has “significant” in-house experience, including her current role as treasurer at ACEVO and trustee of the School for Social Entrepreneurs.  

Halford will take over from Don Bawtree, who has led the team for 24 years and will continue to provide support as a special adviser to BDO. She will be supported by a team of charity experts in multiple locations across the UK.

Halford said:  “Don has worked tirelessly over the years at BDO to build up a well-established offering to the charity sector. 

“I am truly honoured to continue his hard work and couldn’t have asked for a more experienced and knowledgeable team to work alongside in the team’s next chapter.” 

She added: “The majority of UK sectors are currently facing huge challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the charity sector is no exception. I am pleased that we have such great expertise and capability within the team to support our clients at a time like this.

“Our commitment to charities remains as strong as ever and I look forward to leading the team in continuing to help our clients and the wider sector succeed.”

BDO’s charities team supports a “varied mix” of national and international charities across audit, accounting, taxation, governance and other advisory services, and provides insights into topical developments in the sector and regular training opportunities. 

Its clients include Marie Curie, RSPCA, Barnardo’s, and Age UK, amongst many others.