Bishop Fleming appoints new audit partner

Bishop Fleming has appointed former PwC director, Stephen Patey, as audit partner to its Plymouth office, bolstering the firm’s significantly expanding audit practice.

The strategic appointment highlights the firm’s commitment to growing its service offering in the South West region and Midlands, building on another successful financial year that saw double-digit fee growth to £45.8m. With audit revenues doubling over the last three years, the firm continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering “exceptional service and investing in its future”.

Patey brings more than 30 years’ experience to the firm, previously delivering audits to a wide range of clients including large multinationals, owner managed businesses and private equity backed businesses, with a particular focus on manufacturing and retail. At Bishop Fleming, he will leverage this experience, focussing on the local marketplace.

Firmly rooted in Plymouth, Patey is a founder and trustee of local charity, Promoting Children in Plymouth, which encourages corporates to do more to alleviate poverty and make a difference in a young person’s life.

Patey’s appointment follows the recent announcement of the firm’s expansion into the Midlands market.

Patey said: I’m delighted to be joining Bishop Fleming during a period of such exciting growth. The firm’s client-first approach and focus on quality client relationships matches my own values and makes Bishop Fleming a great fit for my next challenge, rejoining many exceptional ex-colleagues who have also made the move from PwC.

“I am particularly excited to continue my work supporting owner-managed businesses in a firm which has a deep focus on empowering these businesses to thrive in a complex financial landscape.

Providing exemplary client service is of the highest importance to me and I will continue to build trusted relationships with my clients and deliver the highest quality audit with no surprises, whilst being a sounding board for clients to help them navigate obstacles and achieve their goals and aspirations.”

Nathan Coughlin, office lead and partner, added: “Steve’s appointment represents our ongoing commitment to growth in the South West and signals the ongoing growth of our audit service line. His significant audit experience strengthens the specialist services we can offer our clients, and his vast knowledge will be a great asset to the wider team. I’m really pleased to welcome Steve to the business.”