Ballards appoints new partner

Worcestershire-based accountancy firm, Ballards, has announced the appointment of Sean Devlin as a partner within the firm’s IT and digital transformation department. 

It is reported that the firm’s IT and digital transformation department is the latest in its extended line of services which also include recruitment via its subsidiary company, Four Squared Recruitment. 

Prior to his appointment, Devlin was a director at the firm after joining from RSM in 2021, and as partner, he will continue to support clients in creating value through the use of digital technology.  

In addition, Ballards has also made more than 20 other hires across the business over the past year, taking its headcount to over 100 professionals. 

Devlin said: “Ultimately, our service looks to ensure that businesses are making the most of the opportunities that the digital space offers to them. This may be through automation, streamlining processes, improving systems or the introduction of new software.”

James Syree, chief executive of Ballards, said: “Although accountancy and taxation is the core of our firm and underpins all of our relationships, our plan is to be able to support clients in other areas of their business. 

“Specifically with digital transformation, we found that clients often found themselves without advice on how to maximise value in this area and our service can plug that gap. The breadth of opportunity that the digital space can afford to business is startling and can improve areas ranging from customer experience to profitability and even staff retention.”

Sarah Stevens, HR director at Ballards, added: “It is great to be a key employer in the area for professional services. Sean’s recent promotion to partner shows the progressive nature of the firm having non accountancy individuals amongst the leadership team. 

“I am sure he will continue to be successful in what is a growing part of our practice.”