Hentons unveils raft of appointments

Accountancy firm Hentons has confirmed a key senior appointment as well as three internal promotions following a 13% growth in turnover over the last 12 months. The Leeds-based firm has appointed chartered accountant Mark Bain as a new partner. He brings with him over 20 years of experience in the industry, and has moved from New Zealand to head up the 45-strong audit and accounts team. He previously worked in both the UK and New Zealand as a chartered accountant, business advisor and chief financial officer, and joins from McCulloch + Partners, where he was managing partner. Bain said: “Following my relocation back to the UK, I wanted a new professional challenge that would utilise the diverse experience and skills that I have developed during my successful practice career. “Hentons stood out as one of the country’s leading independent accountancy practices, with an impressive growth trajectory, an inspiring team, and a broad client base.” Managing director at Hentons, Peter Watson, said: “Mark was right on point for our business. He is the ideal person to lead our team in Leeds and we were particularly impressed with his professional reputation and approachable character. Mark will build on the strong, positive team culture and innovative client service we currently provide. “His experience in change management, delivering organic growth and ability to foster a strong cross selling culture, along with his commitment to supporting staff engagement and retention, all really impressed us. There’s no doubt he will add value to both our team and clients.” In addition to Bain’s appointment, Mark Knowlson, Jess Haunch and Mike Werbowy have all been promoted to director level. Watson said: “Over the last three years we have embarked on an exciting acquisition strategy, which included York firm Forster Stott. Mark has been instrumental in supporting the integration of its team and clients into Hentons. He has driven the development of the workflow system, the digitalisation of the office and the migration of client relationships to the new management team. “Jess, who heads the payroll team, joined our business from school and is a fantastic example of the career progression opportunities at Hentons. Over the last eight years she has made an outstanding contribution to the firm.” He added: “Recently, her work providing clients with vital job retention scheme advice and guidance throughout Covid-19 has been impeccable and has been a guiding light for many businesses at a very difficult time. “Mike is part of our live music, sports and entertainment department in London, providing business management and accounting services to musicians that include Headie One, Disclosure, Twin Atlantic, Tom Misch and Mullaly. Mike is renowned for delivering a bespoke service that is always tailored to the best interests and individual needs of his talented clients.”