Financial and professional services firm Smith & Williamson has unveiled the latest group of new faces in its Bristol office – bringing to 30 the number of new joiners over the past six months.

Approaching half of the new recruits, who range from graduates and trainees through to directors, are in the firm’s business tax and private client tax services teams.

The recruitment drive follows a raft of senior appointments at Smith & Williamson in Bristol including Zoe Thomas as head of business tax, Louise Thornhill as head of investment management and Nigel Hardy as head of assurance and business services.

Meanwhile Kelly Jones has been appointed a partner in assurance and business services (ABS), with Helen Bassett and Marcus Graham being made directors in ABS and transaction services respectively. Most recently, David Gage, head of VAT and real estate at Smith & Williamson in Bristol, has been appointed a director.

Carl Deane, managing partner at Smith & Williamson’s Bristol office, says:

“The fact that we have taken on 30 new people since the middle of 2019 reflects an increased demand for our high quality service and technical expertise among existing and new clients.

“It is also a reflection of our strong culture of reward and recognition, which translates into long and dedicated service from our people and a loyal client base.

“This latest batch of new joiners will bring fresh energy and experience to the Bristol office and help us to consolidate our position as the trusted adviser for aspirational businesses both here in the city and across the West of England.”

Zoe Thomas adds:

“Notwithstanding the current uncertain economic environment, we have seen a high demand for our services in respect of UK tax and have significantly strengthened our team as a result.

“Our advice covers a wide range of tax issues but those that currently come up most frequently are IR35, Corporate Criminal Offence, DAC6, the changes in non-resident capital gains tax, VAT reverse charge and Making Tax Digital, as well as R&D claims.

“We have specialists that can assist in all these areas and a wealth of experience in advising sole traders through to FTSE 100 companies.”