RSM UK snaps up Irish counterpart

RSM UK, which has offices in Leicester and Nottingham, has merged with the RSM practice in Northern Ireland (formerly RSM McClure Watters).

The deal includes the acquisition of the Northern Ireland consulting business, PACEC.

All 70 staff from RSM Northern Ireland and PACEC will join RSM UK – bringing the total headcount for the combined business to almost 4,000.

David Watters who has led the firm since its formation will leave as a partner, but remain in a consultancy role for an initial period of time. Richard Gardiner will take on the role of Belfast managing partner going forward.

Gardiner said: “We have consistently grown our practice over the years, both organically and through acquisitions, and this is the next step of strategic growth for us.

“Both organisations have a strong sense of shared values and vision, including our commitment to professionalism; our desire to deliver a high standard of client service; and the importance we place on supporting our clients, suppliers and staff to achieve their goals. This highlights a natural synergy in terms of what we do and how we do it – bringing together two complementary businesses to enhance our expertise and capability and shape the future growth of the firm.”

Gwilliam added: “The professional services market in Northern Ireland is vibrant and RSM is a key player in this market. Our merger offers a fantastic opportunity to grow our services in Northern Ireland and expand our consulting business in the UK. We have a clear vision to become the first choice advisor to middle market leaders and the merger further strengthens our offering and geographic reach across the UK– taking us a step closer to this goal.”