Kilsby Williams has strengthened its audit and accountancy team with four new hires: Channa Wijesekera, Stephanie Pingue, Ryan Jeffs, and Alex Manton. Wijesekera, a seasoned auditor from a “Big Four” firm, will serve as a senior auditor. Pingue, a qualified ACCA manager, along with seniors Jeffs and Manton, will handle accounts preparation, including financial statements, management accounts, and VAT returns. The new team members express optimism about contributing to the firm’s growth, while Managing Partner Simon Tee highlights the benefits their expertise will bring to clients and the firm’s future expansion.
Evelyn Partners has appointed Jennifer Tragner as a partner in its R&D tax team in Bristol. Tragner, a seasoned expert with nearly 20 years of experience, previously served as director and head of policy at ForrestBrown. Known for her role in shaping R&D tax policy, she joins Evelyn Partners at a time of growth, bolstered by the firm’s recent acquisitions. Tragner is excited to help clients navigate the evolving R&D tax landscape and to enhance the firm’s presence in the South West, a region known for its innovation across key sectors.
Champion Accountants has expanded its audit team by hiring Fahim Ashraf and Jake Edwards following a 31% increase in audit revenue in 2023. Ashraf joins as an audit and accounts senior, bringing extensive audit experience from Manchester firms, while Edwards joins as an audit and accounts semi-senior. Both expressed enthusiasm for Champion’s innovative approach and diverse client base. Audit partner Mark Turner emphasised the importance of these appointments in addressing the industry’s talent shortage and meeting growing client demand, ensuring audits are managed efficiently and cost-effectively.
Gerald Edelman provided comprehensive financial and tax due diligence for Grazalema Ventures in its acquisition of Combined Services Limited (CSL). Founded by former Uber executive Fouzan Ali, Grazalema Ventures focuses on acquiring UK-based SMEs in manufacturing and engineering. CSL, a leader in Building Energy Management Systems (BMS), has worked on notable projects at The Shard, Harrods, and the Bank of England. Gerald Edelman’s team played a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transaction. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the deal’s structure, which promises a successful future for CSL under new ownership.
