KPMG strengthens IT Advisory to support growth

KPMG has strengthened its IT Advisory team in the Midlands with a trio of appointments. Fiona Saunders-Watson, previously of BizAps, joins as a senior manager within the Risk & Compliance division of IT Advisory.  Her new role involves advising clients on how to optimise their SAP/ERP systems and how to minimise the risks involved.

Varsha Mistry, who previously worked as an independent consultant advising major companies within the automotive and retail sectors, joins the firm as executive advisor. She will help businesses to drive value from their IT investment. Martin Tully, joins as assistant manager, bringing with him in excess of six years’ experience in IT security obtained at PwC. In his new role he will help businesses to review their IT security.

Mohammed Rahman, head of UK corporates IT risk and compliance – based in the Midlands, said: “As margins remain tight, managers are continuing to look for ways to extract value from their business and IT systems remain an integral part in achieving those savings. Whether it be through the centralisation of shared networks or the design of systems to aid business and management intelligence, IT is firmly on the agenda of local businesses.”

Grant Thornton beefs up tax team

GRANT Thornton has appointed two new partners to strengthen its tax team in Birmingham. James Hurst will be leading the firm’s VAT team. He has a wide range of expertise in indirect taxes but, in particular, will be focusing on the retail, automotive and not for profit sectors. David Hillan joins from KPMG to head up the firm’s corporate and international tax team. He has specialised in this area for over 10 years and will be focussing exclusively on the further development of tax services to large and multi-national companies in the Midlands. Dave Munton, Birmingham office managing partner, said: “Tax is a vital area for all of our clients and these two partner appointments are a strong statement of the firm’s commitment and ambition to build on the quality and range of our tax expertise in Birmingham. We will continue to look for further such investment opportunities.”

Chantrey Vellacott DFK lures new partner from rivals

CHANTREY Vellacott DFK has appointed a new partner after luring him away from a rival. Bill Devitt spent 28 years with Baker Tilly before opting to make the switch. His appointment coincides with Chantrey Vellacott DFK’s planned relocation to new offices in the Grade II listed 35 Calthorpe Road building in Birmingham. The move is set for May once refurbishment work is completed. Mr Devitt, 48, studied managerial and administrative studies at Aston University and carried out his accountancy training with Kidsons Impey in Birmingham, prior to the firm’s merger with Baker Tilly.  Suk Aulak, head of Chantrey Vellacott DFK in Birmingham, said: “Bill is vastly experienced and will help us strengthen (our) offering as a not-for-profit and education centre of excellence in the Midlands.”