Today’s new in brief – 19/5/2025

Forvis Mazars has appointed Raj Bhundia as a tax partner in its London office, enhancing its Specialist Tax Services team. Bhundia will focus on expanding the firm’s services and developing its Short Term Business Traveller proposition. He brings nearly 20 years of experience, joining from EY where he led global mobility programmes and created employment tax and business traveller teams. Liz Ritchie, head of tax at Forvis Mazars, praised Bhundia’s deep expertise in global mobility and employment tax. His appointment reflects the firm’s strategy to broaden its tax offering and meet the evolving needs of a diverse client base.

Independent accountancy firm Hurst has expanded its team with several strategic hires and promotions. New arrivals include Zeeshan Merchant (business services manager) and Joe Goscomb (tax associate manager), both from major firms like EY and KPMG. Hurst also welcomed six graduates with diverse academic backgrounds, reflecting its inclusive recruitment strategy, and apprentice Will Hidrey joined the digital transformation team. Danielle Tierney was promoted to corporate finance manager, highlighting internal development. Hurst’s growth is part of a wider plan to double in size by 2028 and reach £20m in turnover, supported by recruitment, new services, and significant investment in technology and people.

James Cowper Kreston has advised Wheatley Software Solutions on its sale to Jonas Software, expanding Jonas’s portfolio in the UK energy sector. Wheatley, known for software solutions in the utilities industry, supports meter operators and asset providers. Jonas Software, which owns over 170 software brands, delivers enterprise management solutions across 40+ vertical markets. The acquisition aims to enhance sector expertise while preserving Wheatley’s operational independence. Wheatley’s CEO praised the advisors for their strategic insight. The deal is positioned as a strong strategic fit, with growth potential and alignment between Wheatley’s specialised services and Jonas’s expansive, stable global infrastructure.

Quantuma has been appointed realisation agent by Indonesian property firm Modernland Realty to support asset divestments following its March 2025 debt restructuring, sanctioned by a Singapore court. Led by Luke Furler, Quantuma is working with Modernland and financial advisor Kroll to coordinate strategic asset sales. The role leverages Quantuma’s international experience and follows its recent successful administration and sale of Premier Communications. Furler noted ongoing engagement with major real estate firms to progress sales efficiently. This appointment underscores Quantuma’s growing role in international financial advisory and restructuring projects, as it continues expanding its cross-border service capabilities.