Garbutt + Elliott expand with accountancy firm merger

LEEDS accountancy firm Garbutt + Elliott is set to expand its not-for-profit and charitable services as it merges with a fellow Yorkshire firm.

The acquisition of Ian Pickup & Co, a charity specialist, will enable the firm to create a 15-strong department dedicated to the sector, headed up by partner Nigel Shaw.

Ian Pickup and his team of five will relocate to Garbutt + Elliot’s Leeds offices in Park Place this month.

Garbutt + Elliott will be serving more than 100 charities and not-for-profit organisations across the North of the country, with its enlarged team of more than 110 staff, as well as nine partners.

Mr Shaw said: “This merger takes us to a new level and provides a springboard for more success and continued growth moving forward. It will also ensure our new and existing clients continue to receive an attentive and personal service.”

“Ian Pickup was approached by a number of our competitors but was confident that Garbutt + Elliott provided the best fit for his clients and staff in terms of sharing the same values and culture, which is a testament to the people we have in our business.”

Mr Pickup, who will join Garbutt + Elliott as partner, commented: “Merging with Garbutt + Elliott will allow our clients to access the full range of accounting services and expertise that they now require and demand, in order to operate more effectively and efficiently.

“It was important that our chosen partner had the same interest and belief in the charity sector and was committed to helping our clients achieve their aspirations going forward. Having spoken to a number of other practices, I am happy that Garbutt + Elliott have the best fit with our practice.”

Garbutt + Elliott launched its charity team three years ago and has since seen year-on-year growth. In the firm’s last financial year, its client roster has doubled and fees have increased more than 25 per cent.

Recent client wins include Yorkshire Agricultural Society, York Blind and Partially Sighted Society, Square Chapel Trust, Marie Collins Foundation, Northcall and the Human Relief Foundation.

Russell Turner, managing partner at Garbutt + Elliott, added: “The fact that Ian has chosen to join Garbutt + Elliott is testament to the success and reputation we have gained so far in this sector. We are delighted to welcome Ian and his team.”