People: PKF Smith Cooper; Pick Everard

PKF Smith Cooper continues to strengthen its West Midlands presence with a new hire for the tax team.

Nick Skidmore joins the Birmingham office as a manager to bolster the firm’s transactions tax offering.

Since starting his career in 2012, Nick has amassed a wealth of experience, gained primarily from advising private and family-owned businesses.

His skill set will bring great benefits to a team which specialises in advising its clients on matters including business sales and acquisitions, employee incentives, corporate reconstructions, and succession planning

Nick is a chartered accountant and tax adviser, notably winning several prizes throughout his studies, including the Institute Medal for the best overall performance across the CTA qualification.

On joining PKF Smith Cooper, Nick said: “I’m looking forward to joining the firm and working with a dedicated team on complex projects. It’s a great opportunity to apply and continue to develop my tax knowledge to help clients achieve their business goals.”

Adam Rollason, tax advisory partner and head of transactions Tax at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Nick to the team, his passion for tax combined with the extensive experience he has gained from his previous roles will be invaluable to both the team and our clients. We look forward to working with him as we continue to expand our transactions tax offering across the Midlands market.”

Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard has appointed a new associate director of ecology.

Tom Smith, who brings 11 years of experience in the ecology sector, joins Pick Everard with a specialism in habitat and botanical surveying as well as undertaking ecological assessments.

Smith will be responsible for guiding the firm’s ecological initiatives and integrating biodiversity and sustainability into projects from the earliest stages.

His career has also included hands-on conservation efforts around the world, with a focus on protecting endangered species and fragile ecosystems.

He said: “Ecology is complex and varied. It requires creative, out-of-the-box thinking and deep understanding to deliver practical, effective solutions. Without raising awareness about the importance of wildlife, nature and habitats, we can’t expect our clients to understand the need for sustainable solutions.

Tom Smith

“My goal at Pick Everard is to utilise my passion and knowledge to educate and ensure that ecological considerations are at the forefront of all our projects.”

Smith is a member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management and the Royal Society of Biology.

He has also obtained his level 1 bat survey licence and level 1 great crested newt licence, further expanding the range of ecological services Pick Everard now offers, from initial advice to detailed surveys and impact assessments.

Emelye Kenyon, director of environmental services at Pick Everard, said: “With increased attention on biodiversity and sustainability, particularly in light of requirements like Biodiversity Net Gain, having a dedicated associate director of ecology is key.

“Tom’s expertise will help our clients navigate these regulations and ensure that ecological constraints are addressed early in the process. His leadership will be essential in helping us meet the growing demand for ecological services and expanding our ecology team.”