Today’s news in brief – 21/2/2025
Access Accountancy has named Mark Pavlides, ICAEW interim managing director, operations, as its new chair, succeeding Sharron Gunn. With over 25 years of leadership experience across finance, transport, and technology, Pavlides has held key roles at ACCA, British Airways, and AIG. His international expertise spans Asia and Australia. He aims to enhance social mobility in accountancy, ensuring opportunities for young professionals regardless of background. Pavlides expressed his commitment to driving progress and thanked Gunn for her contributions. He believes a more inclusive profession strengthens the industry and looks forward to collaborating with trustees and stakeholders.
ForrestBrown has expanded its services to include location strategy consulting, helping businesses invest in new regions. The service follows a four-stage approach, from project definition to site selection. Director of grant advisory Karim Budabuss and technical specialist Shyla Sudhir lead the initiative. Budabuss specializes in securing UK grant funding, while Sudhir has international site selection expertise. They emphasize the importance of due diligence in investment decisions amid economic instability. ForrestBrown, a leading R&D tax relief consultancy, supports businesses with innovation incentives, capital allowances, and grants, with a 100-strong multidisciplinary team of tax advisers, accountants, lawyers, and sector specialists.
Wright Vigar has appointed Lee Henshaw as associate director, strengthening its presence in Mansfield following a recent office relocation. With over 20 years of accountancy experience, Henshaw has supported businesses across Nottinghamshire, from sole traders to large corporations. He previously spent 12 years at Elkingtons, specializing in business restructuring, valuations, and tax planning. Director Matthew Chadwick welcomed Henshaw, highlighting his local expertise and strategic value. Henshaw expressed enthusiasm about joining the firm, noting the warm reception from colleagues and the potential to assist local businesses with Wright Vigar’s proactive advice, personal service, and technical expertise.
FRP advised architectural and property consultancy N-Able Group on its sale to RSK Group. London-based N-Able, comprising ECD Architects and Keegans, specializes in sustainable building design and safety. Seeking a buyer aligned with its sustainability focus, N-Able enlisted FRP’s Bristol team, led by Mark Naughton. The team prepared marketing materials and identified potential buyers. Naughton emphasized N-Able’s market leadership in sustainable architecture and retrofit. N-Able chairman Danny Innes praised FRP’s role in navigating negotiations, ensuring a seamless transaction. The acquisition enables N-Able to retain its identity while benefiting from RSK’s resources and industry reputation.
