Today’s news in brief – 21/11/2024

Nigel Burke has been elected chairman of Saffery for a four-year term, succeeding James Sykes. Burke, who joined Saffery in 2012, helped establish its film and TV unit, which now includes 89 professionals. Based in London, he will continue advising media clients while supporting firm management. Sykes, who doubled Saffery’s fee income to £142m during his tenure, remains a client partner. Managing partner Matthew Burton praised Burke’s leadership and expertise in media services. Burke expressed excitement for the role, emphasising Saffery’s impressive growth and commitment to consolidating its market position across the UK’s key economic centres. BDO LLP has named Emma Hosking-Williams and Stuart Macdougall as partners. Hosking-Williams, formerly with EY, joins the private capital tax team in London, specialising in ultra-high-net-worth clients, family businesses, and multinationals. Macdougall, previously with Saffery, joins the audit team in Glasgow, bringing expertise in ESG, private equity-backed firms, and international groups. His prior roles include leading Saffery’s Entrepreneur National Practice and Sustainability Service. Anna Draper, head of people and culture at BDO, highlighted the appointments as part of the firm’s investment in its diverse service offerings, emphasising their expertise as valuable additions to the partnership. Alvarez & Marsal Tax (A&M) has appointed Jonathan Balcombe and Alexander Marcham as managing directors. Balcombe will lead Portfolio Tax Services, bringing experience in transaction tax support and PE portfolio services from Evelyn Partners. Marcham will head the UK Family Office service line, having previously served as head of tax at a private venture capital firm. These appointments support A&M’s growing Private Capital business, launched by Victoria Price earlier this year. Global practice leader Ernesto Perez emphasised their roles in enhancing A&M’s tax capabilities, serving private clients, and meeting global demand for private client services. HW Fisher, part of Sumer Group, has promoted Susan Armstrong-Brookes and Louise Hughes to directors. Armstrong-Brookes, with over 22 years at HW Fisher, now leads the Credit Management Department, managing tax investigations and funding schemes. Hughes, who joined four years ago, becomes marketing director, overseeing business development and fostering inclusivity across the firm. Managing partner Andy Rich praised their contributions, noting the firm’s commitment to career development and its continued growth. These promotions coincide with HW Fisher’s integration into Sumer Group, reflecting its dedication to providing top-quality services and fostering a progressive workplace culture.