People: PKF Smith Cooper; Muse; Lodders

Richard Haydon has joined PKF Smith Cooper as audit director, bringing over 20 years of auditing experience to the firm.

He is one of three directors hired by PKF Smith Cooper this year and will be joining the Birmingham branch, supporting the team’s expansion.

With experience in both small and medium-sized practices, Haydon has worked with a wide range of clients, from small owner-managed companies to larger groups with turnovers exceeding £100m.

Throughout his career, he has specialised in the manufacturing, engineering, sales, and distribution sectors and possesses knowledge in statutory reporting.

He said: “I am looking forward to joining the firm and working with a dedicated team of trusted accountants and business advisors. I am excited to work in unison with the wider PKF network and our member firms across the world.”

Stephen Newman, audit and accounts partner at PKF Smith Cooper said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Richard to the team and continuing our expansion journey throughout the firm. His wide range of experience in his role and specific sectors will strengthen our team greatly and Richard will be a valuable asset to our growing client base.”

Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has continued its strong growth in the Midlands by appointing Lisa Turley as development director.

Turley joins from Lendlease Europe, with over 15 years of experience delivering major residential and mixed-use projects.

Lisa Turley

Maggie Grogan, managing director at Muse, Midlands, said: “With 15 years of experience delivering complex and high-profile placemaking, Lisa will add real value to our team. With very recent experience working in partnership with Birmingham City Council and supporting delivery at scale, Lisa is well-placed to support our growth.”

Lisa Turley, development director at Muse, Midlands, said: “Muse has a reputation across the industry as an ambitious and passionate regeneration partner. Muse’s regional pipeline is impressive. It’s an opportunity to drive real change in communities across the West Midlands by focusing on social value, sustainability, and economic growth. Seeing the growth and development of the business in the Midlands over the last two years now is an exciting time to get involved.”

Law firm Lodders has announced eight promotions across its real estate, private client, dispute resolution, business services and operations teams, including two legal director appointments.

In Lodders’ business services group, corporate law specialist Leanne Lawrence is promoted to legal director.

In the private client department, Sharon Crosby, who heads up the care and capacity team, is promoted to legal director and Michael Neal-Brook is promoted to senior associate.

The dispute resolution team have promoted both Anjali Narshi and Lauren Hutchinson to senior associates, with Katie Mann becoming an associate.

Hollie Smith in Lodders’ real estate team is promoted to associate, and Sara Dove is promoted to CRM & data manager.

Lodders’ managing partner Paul Mourton said: “This latest set of promotions is a testament to our team’s exceptional legal service and skill. As a growing firm with a strong reputation for ‘growing our own,’ we are proud to have developed and nurtured many of those who have earned well-deserved promotions this year. Each individual has made, and continues to make, a valuable contribution to the firm and our diverse portfolio of clients, supporting our unwavering commitment to quality and excellence.”