Today’s news in brief – 5/09/2024

Hayward Wright, a Worcestershire-based accountancy firm, has acquired Cannock-based Ansell Munden, expanding its team to 33 and increasing its presence across the West Midlands and Staffordshire. The acquisition strengthens Hayward Wright’s offerings, including interim finance director support and restructuring services. Ansell Munden, which brings expertise in sectors like not-for-profit, will now operate under the Hayward Wright brand. Managing directors Alistair Hayward-Wright and Paul Moore highlight the mutual benefit of the merger, aligning both firms’ client-centric values and broadening the range of services for SMEs and owner-managed businesses. PKF Smith Cooper, an accountancy firm with offices in the Midlands, has welcomed its largest graduate intake, with 21 new starters joining specialist teams across its Derby, Nottingham, and Birmingham offices. The intake includes 13 graduates in the audit division and others in business services, corporate finance, tax, and VAT. The firm’s Learning and Development Team will support the new recruits. Managing Partner James Bagley celebrates the firm’s strong commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and commends current staff for their 100% ACA exam pass rate, noting the firm’s focus on fostering future business leaders. Newcastle-based UNW has appointed Parm Bhachoo as a senior employment taxes specialist, bringing 15 years of experience from both in-house and practice roles. Bhachoo will support clients with employment tax services, including compliance with HMRC, National Minimum Wage, and payroll regulations. Led by partner Lee Muter, UNW’s Employment Taxes Team has expanded its expertise, investing in new hires and a graduate scheme. Bhachoo expressed enthusiasm for joining the respected team, while Muter highlighted the growing demand for employment tax specialists as tax legislation becomes more complex. Azets has promoted Lyndsey Camilleri to partner at its Newbury office while she is on maternity leave. With 16 years of financial industry experience, Camilleri will oversee client relationships, generate new business, and lead the firm’s next generation of accountants. She emphasises the importance of innovation, particularly with AI and cloud-based software, in adapting to evolving client needs. Managing Partner Neil Elsden praises Camilleri for her dedication and expertise, noting her promotion reflects Azets’ commitment to developing internal talent. Camilleri looks forward to helping clients navigate uncertain economic conditions.