People: PKF Smith Cooper; Myers & Co
PKF Smith Cooper has appointed experienced Ruth Morris to a new Senior Corporate tax manager role as the Midlands-based accounting and advisory firm continues to invest in scaling and strengthening its tax division.
Ruth Morris joins PKF Smith Cooper with over 30 years of experience in audit, accountancy and tax and has specialised in corporate tax since 1998. Ruth previously worked for a Big Four firm and has occupied roles at several top ten firms during her career.
In her role at PKF Smith Cooper, Ruth will manage the corporate tax compliance process, from reviewing tax computations and returns, tax accounting and disclosures for inclusion in statutory accounts to advising clients on their tax affairs and how upcoming changes to legislation may impact them. Ruth will combine her expertise in corporate tax with her broad understanding of all areas of tax to provide PKF Smith Cooper clients with comprehensive support.
The PKF Smith Cooper tax division has had another successful year, with their accomplishments celebrated at the esteemed Tolley’s Taxation Awards, where they were named a finalist for ‘Best Tax Practice in a Regional Firm’. Individual achievements have also been recognised internally, with six team members in the tax division promoted since January 2023.
Natasha Scott, Tax Advisory Partner at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ruth to the PKF Smith Cooper team. Her expertise will undoubtedly make her an asset to both our firm and valued clients. As we continue to grow our tax team and industry-leading service offering, we have a number of career opportunities available for ambitious graduates and fully established tax professionals.”
Ruth Morris said: “I am thrilled to be joining PKF Smith Cooper as Senior Corporate Tax Manager where I will use my expertise to help our clients navigate difficult tax regulations. I am impressed by the collaborative and supportive environment I am already experiencing at the company, and look forward to helping our clients achieve their business objectives.”
Myers & Co solicitors are starting the new year with a new managing director.
Tim Newsome, who is an experienced civil litigation solicitor, having qualified in 2005, will be taking over the Stoke-on-Trent practice as former owners Stephen and Helen Myers retired at the end of December.
The long-standing Head of Dispute Resolution said: “I am delighted to be stepping into the role of Managing Director. I could not hope to be leading a better team of people. Plans are already in place for further recruitment, and I look forward to the continued growth of the company and continuing our great work with clients.”
Tim paid tribute to Stephen’s time at Myers & Co, as he said: “Stephen safely guided the firm through the financial crisis of 2008 and the COVID lockdown and, together with Helen, can now look forward to a well-earned retirement.”
Power couple Stephen and Helen Myers had been at the helm of the law firm since 2005, when they acquired the practice from Heatons Solicitors. Stephen had been with the firm since 1981, when he joined as an office junior. He qualified as a Solicitor in 1995 and then became a partner of the firm just a couple of years later. Stephen spent over 30 years advising clients on legal matters. His expertise helped Myers & Co to grow into an established legal firm with an enviable reputation.
The firm was sold in 2022 to the MAPD Group, who firmly believe in Making a Positive Difference, anticipating Stephen and Helen’s retirement. Speaking of handing the reigns over to MAPD, Stephen said: “We believe that we sold to the right people. Their commitment to developing their employees is shown by Tim’s appointment, and with that approach the firm is sure to go from strength to strength.”
Tim added: “The company has already embraced MAPD’s values of positivity and kindness towards our own people and clients, and I plan to build on that further to make Myers an even better place to work and do business.”
