Baldwins expands banking operation after year on year growth

A Midlands accountancy group has expanded its Banking and Finance operation after it experienced strong growth.

Since Baldwins Accountants launched its Banking and Finance department in the Midlands in 2013, the team has worked with hundreds of businesses, resulting in a 50% year-on-year revenue increase for the department.

Due to the department’s success in the Midlands, the service is now being launched in the North East following the firm’s expansion there last year with the acquisitions of Rowlands Accountants and Evolution.

The Banking and Finance department provides advice on funding structures and pricing, writing business plans, reviewing bank documentation, sourcing grants and a variety of other banking and finance related matters.

The last 12 months has seen the Baldwins Accountancy Group grow from 16 to 34 offices across the country as part of its national strategic expansion plan. It now employs more than 800 staff with an annual turnover in excess £50m.

Two new Banking and Finance Directors have been appointed to cater for the demand.

Phil Empson has joined after more than 25 years with Yorkshire Bank and will be overseeing the Banking and Finance department in the North East.

Mark Huddlestone, who has 30 years of experience in banking and asset finance, has also been appointed in the Midlands and will work with Associate Directors Graham Collins and Chris Briggs.

The Banking and Finance department was originally set up by Martyn Shakespear, who has been promoted to Head of Banking and Finance.

He said: “This service is unique across the accountancy industry not least because we have highly experienced former bank managers with inside industry knowledge.

“Between us as a team of seven we now have more than 150 years of banking experience which not only stands us in good stead for the service we provide, but for the number of referrals we are receiving from the banks for future business.”