Menzies appoints two new partners to tax team

Menzies has appointed two new partners to its Tax team with the addition of Nick Garside as VAT partner in the London office, and Steve Hoare as a Business Tax partner in the Leatherhead office.

Garside joins Menzies from Grant Thornton, where he led the firm’s VAT team as a partner. With over 20 years of experience advising clients on VAT, he has worked across all industries, with particular expertise in financial services, travel and leisure, real estate, and cross-border supply chains. 

Having originally trained and qualified with a Big Four firm, he brings “extensive” technical knowledge and strategic insight to his new role. As partner and head of VAT, he will focus on growing the firm’s VAT team and delivering high-quality VAT advice to clients.

Garside said: “VAT is becoming increasingly complex, and businesses need clear, strategic guidance to manage risk and seize opportunities. With Menzies embarking on further growth, this is an important time to strengthen the firm’s VAT expertise. 

“My focus will be on helping clients navigate evolving regulations with confidence while making informed decisions that support their commercial objectives. Menzies has a strong reputation for technical excellence and client service, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”

Meanwhile, Hoare returns to Menzies after a decade away, rejoining as a Business Tax partner in the Leatherhead office. He has over 25 years of experience in tax advisory, specialising in advising owner-managed businesses (OMBs) on a range of tax matters over the full business lifecycle, including exit strategies, company sales, share schemes, and international expansion. His approach focuses on ensuring clients navigate tax complexities efficiently while achieving their commercial and personal objectives.

Hoare said: “I’m delighted to be rejoining Menzies as a partner. The firm’s collaborative culture and commitment to supporting ambitious businesses have always stood out to me. 

“The tax landscape is ever-changing, and I’m looking forward to working closely with clients to help them navigate challenges and plan for the future with confidence. It’s also incredibly rewarding to mentor and develop the next generation of advisers, ensuring we continue to provide the highest level of expertise and service.”

Richard Godmon, partner and head of Tax at Menzies, added: “Our continued growth is driven by attracting and retaining the best talent, and I am delighted to welcome both Nick and Steve to the partnership. 

“Nick’s deep expertise in VAT and his leadership experience will enhance our already strong VAT offering, while Steve’s return to Menzies brings a wealth of experience in business tax advisory, particularly for owner-managed businesses. Their appointments further strengthen our ability to support clients through all aspects of the tax landscape and align with our strategic growth plans.”