Cottons Group bolsters leadership team to drive future growth

Cottons Group has recently announced the promotion of Charles Hill to partner and Luke Prout to the tax department. The firm said Hill has demonstrated “exceptional” client relationship management and service skills, along with technical knowledge for the firm’s larger clients. He specialises in owner-managed businesses, focusing on wealth generation and retention, as well as medium and larger corporations with their forward strategy and compliance requirements. His expertise has been crucial in the growth and development of Cottons’ audit department and he has also played a significant role in its acquisition strategy. Hill said: “My aim is to expand Cottons’ outreach of excellent service offerings to a wider range of clients locally, regionally and nationally. I am committed to supporting our clients in achieving their business goals and ensuring their compliance needs are met efficiently.” Will Smart, managing partner at Cottons, said: “Charles has impressed us with his deep understanding of our clients' needs and his commitment to delivering outstanding service. His promotion to Partner is a testament to his hard work and the positive impact he has had on our clients.” Prout joins Cottons from a larger firm, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His journey will provide “valuable” insights to drive the firm’s growth. His background includes over 12 years at a national firm, followed by six years as a tax partner at a regional firm. His broad expertise spans most areas of taxation, including corporate, VAT, PAYE and capital taxes. Smart said: “Luke's high technical skills, commercial acumen and drive make him a perfect fit for our team. His experience in saving clients significant sums of money through effective tax strategies will enhance our service offerings and strengthen our client relationships.” Prout added: “Joining Cottons is an exciting opportunity for me. I have been aware of Cottons for some time as a growing firm with fantastic clients. I enjoy the challenge of leading from the top and developing our tax services alongside the talented staff already here. I have been given the freedom and full support of all the partners to ensure our tax services grow in line with other service lines. “My approach is to work hard and ensure the team moves in the right direction. My immediate priorities are to take stock, review systems, support staff and get to know the clients. Long-term, I aim to enhance our department’s position as a leader regionally in tax services, ensuring that our team’s breadth and experience grow in line with the firm’s other service lines.” These leadership changes support Cottons’ goals of expanding its services and achieving substantial growth. Smart concluded: “The addition of Charles and Luke to our leadership team clearly shows our commitment to bringing in the best people to provide the best service. Their expertise and dedication will be key as we continue to grow and improve our offerings.”

Cottons Group bolsters leadership team to drive future growth

Charles Hill specialises in owner-managed businesses, focusing on wealth generation and retention, while Luke Prout’s expertise spans most areas of taxation, including corporate, VAT, PAYE and capital taxes

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