Azets appoints two partners and promotes Birmingham director

Accountancy and advisory firm Azets has strengthened its leadership with the appointment of two partners and the promotion of a director across its regional offices.

Claire Murray has joined as tax partner and employment tax lead for the South West, based in Bristol. 

She brings more than 25 years of specialist experience in employment tax, having previously worked at Alvarez and Marsal, BDO, Deloitte, Grant Thornton, KPMG and in-house roles. She will also lead the local tax team while supporting Azets’ wider regional network.

Meanwhile, Lewis Aldridge has been appointed partner in the East Midlands and will lead the audit team in Nottingham. With over 15 years of experience, he has advised owner-managed businesses, private equity-backed companies and overseas subsidiaries. 

In his new role, he will focus on expanding Azets’ audit services in the region.

Additionally, Sarah Sullivan has been promoted to director in the Birmingham office. A chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser, she joined Azets in 2020 and advises owner-managed businesses, shareholders and entrepreneurs. 

She trained at a Big Four firm, specialising in private client tax matters including shareholder restructuring, residency issues and succession planning.

Richard Goddard, regional managing director at Azets, said: “It’s a pleasure to announce two senior appointments at Azets, alongside a well-earned internal promotion. 

“Claire and Lewis bring valuable sector expertise and accountancy knowledge, strengthening our employment tax and audit services. Sarah’s promotion, along with five others in our latest round, highlights the depth of talent within our team.”