Cooper Parry has completed two major acquisitions: UHY Hacker Young Manchester and Haines Watts Thames Valley/Reading. These deals mark the firm’s ninth and tenth acquisitions since 2023, expanding its presence in the Northwest and the Thames Valley region, dubbed the UK’s ‘Silicon Valley’. The firm, which has quadrupled in size since partnering with Waterland Private Equity in 2022, added 200 staff, including 17 partners, bringing its total headcount to over 1,400. CEO Ade Cheatham emphasised the firm’s ambition to become the UK’s leading advisory firm, leveraging its growing presence in key UK business hubs.
EY has appointed Anna Anthony as the new UK and Ireland regional managing partner, effective January 2025. Anthony, who has over 25 years of experience in financial services, will lead the firm’s operations of more than 20,000 employees. She has been with EY for over 16 years and served as managing partner of UK Financial Services since 2021. Current UK chair Hywel Ball will continue in his role until a new chair is appointed. Anthony aims to build on EY’s strong foundations, prioritising client needs while fostering the firm’s inclusive culture and values as it adapts to market changes.
TC Group has merged with Lincolnshire-based Brooks and Partners to form TC Brooks and Partners. Brooks and Partners, located in Stamford, brings extensive expertise in tax and business sectors, offering services to clients ranging from individuals to large corporations. Partners Fay Brooks and Kate Howitt expressed enthusiasm for the merger, highlighting the opportunities to enhance client services and collaboration. Keir Warwick, partner at TC Group, emphasised the merger’s strategic importance in expanding the firm’s presence in Stamford. The combined team aims to build strong relationships and continue growth, benefiting both the firm and its clients.
Moore Kingston Smith LLP has appointed Richard Blakeley and Thomas Dalby as new partners. Blakeley, a Chartered Surveyor, will lead the firm’s capital allowances advisory services, helping clients optimise tax savings on property and commercial projects. Dalby, specialising in business tax and employee reward schemes, advises clients ranging from startups to international corporations. His expertise in private equity-backed transactions and management equity strengthens the firm’s offerings. Both partners are excited to join Moore Kingston Smith, with Blakeley emphasising the firm’s collaborative approach, and Dalby focused on expanding tailored solutions to meet clients’ evolving business and employee needs.
