Smith Cooper moves forward with new head of office

ONE of the best known faces in Birmingham’s professional services community has been appointed as Smith Cooper’s new head of office in the city.

Jackie Hendley succeeds Jeremy Cope, who will focus on developing the company’s audit and accountancy division in the city.

A former tax partner at KPMG and a previous chair of Birmingham Forward, Ms Hendley said her role would be to ensure the firm delivered a multi-disciplinary service to the region’s SMEs.

“2015 is going to present challenges for small to medium sized businesses across the region.  Despite increased optimism through 2014, businesses are still operating in an environment of economic uncertainty,” she said.

“With a General Election looming, the swell of unpredictability could begin to impact investment plans. However, with every challenge comes an opportunity and 2015 will see the finalisation of a number of key projects for Birmingham, including the completion of New Street Station and John Lewis; the Metro extension and Resorts World Birmingham at the NEC.  All of these projects create opportunities for local businesses and they must ensure they are well positioned to realise the growth potential.

“Trusted advisers that can work alongside businesses during periods of change and beyond are critically important in maintaining and growing the contribution that this important element of the UK economy makes.”

She said that despite the challenges posed, with everything that was happening in Birmingham at the moment, 2015 promised to be an exciting time for SMEs.

“The work being undertaken by the LEPs to help create the right environment for business, together with the opportunities being delivered through inward investment and major infrastructure projects, such as HS2, will create fertile ground for businesses,” she said.
 
“If the level of uncertainty can be managed and businesses remain confident, 2015 could prove to be a positive year for many.”

Her appointment follows Smith Cooper’s relocation to premises in Edmund Street, which provides the firm with the additional capacity necessary for continued expansion. The ultimate aim is to grow the office to a similar size to that of its Derby and Nottingham offices, which between them employ more than 120 employees.

Last year saw double digit growth across the firm. It now employs almost 200 people across eight offices in the region.  

Andy Delve, Managing Partner of Smith Cooper said: “Jeremy has laid strong foundations for Smith Cooper in the Birmingham market place and he will continue to play an instrumental role supporting Jackie, as well as leading the accounts and audit division for Birmingham.
 
“Jackie is well known among the Birmingham business community having worked in the city for over 20 years advising many local clients and holding positions such as Chair of Birmingham Forward.
 
“Since joining the team 18 months ago, Jackie has been instrumental in driving the business in Birmingham and there’s no doubt she will be a catalyst for further growth as we look to 2015 and beyond across the region.”