Today’s news in brief – 8/4/2025
Xeinadin has expanded its southern UK presence by acquiring JCS Accountants in Surrey and Mudd Partners LLP in Essex. The move enables deeper collaboration across offices, especially in audit and digital services. JCS, founded in 1927, brings nearly 100 years of experience serving charities and family businesses. Mudd has rebranded under Xeinadin from January 2025, enhancing its Essex presence. CEO Derry Crowley praised the firms’ strong reputations and client-focused ethos. Both firms align with Xeinadin’s SME and specialist sector strategies. JCS director Dick Haffenden said the merger provides enhanced resources for staff and clients while maintaining high-quality, collaborative service delivery.
Carpenter Box has merged with Lewes-based Clark Brownscombe, expanding its footprint into East Sussex. Clark Brownscombe will adopt the Carpenter Box brand later in 2025 while continuing to operate from its Lewes office. The merger brings together nearly 200 years of combined expertise in tax planning and financial services. Clark Brownscombe directors Robert Scrivins and Vicky Anderson will become Carpenter Box partners, with six additional staff joining the firm. Managing partner Alan Edwards welcomed the move as a strategic step in regional growth. Scrivins highlighted enhanced services and resources now available to clients through the expanded firm’s broader network.
BKL has appointed Juliet Shaw as chief growth officer, strengthening its senior leadership team. Shaw brings over 20 years of experience in strategic sales, business development, and change leadership from roles at EY, Frost & Sullivan, and PA Consulting. She will work alongside CEO Lee Brook, CFO Neill Ryder, and CPO Greg McCaw to drive strategic, cultural, and financial growth. Her arrival coincides with BKL’s addition of three new tax partners: Susie Mullin, Sehjal Gupta, and Luigi Lungarella. Shaw said she is excited to explore opportunities for growth with clients and teams. CEO Brook praised her ability to inspire strategic change.
The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has launched an investigation into BDO LLP’s audit of Home REIT plc’s financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2021. The inquiry was approved by the FRC’s Conduct Committee in December 2024 and will be conducted under the Audit Enforcement Procedure. The FRC emphasized that only the audit firm and statutory auditors are under scrutiny. Home REIT’s 2023 financial results, delayed due to issues with FY22, noted potential legal action against Alvarium Home REIT Advisors, its former adviser. The company has issued a pre-action letter, citing concerns over financial reporting and judgment processes.
