PKF Francis Clark breaks into Bristol market
PKF Francis Clark, chartered accountants and business advisers, today announced the opening of its new office in Bristol. As the firm marks its centenary year, the opening of its eighth office only further demonstrates PKF Francis Clark’s commitment to the South West as it hopes to fill the growing gap in the market and support mid-sized companies from family businesses through to AIM-listed companies.
This new office on Victoria Street will provide a truly local and dedicated partner-led service for clients across the region, having already supported some of the most successful and growing businesses in the area, including the Eden Project, Bristol Sport and Brittany Ferries.
PKF Francis Clark is delighted to welcome Mike Lea, joining from Smith and Williamson, as the new Bristol managing partner. He brings a wide breadth of knowledge, expertise and experience in the region, and will play a key role in the office’s ambitious growth plans. Mike will be working alongside partners Paul Bray, Stuart Rogers, Paul Crocker, Nick Farrant and Karen Bowen who have all had impressive careers in the region and will bring a huge wealth of skills to the team.
In addition to providing job opportunities to talented people, the firm is keen to invest back in the region by ensuring that 10% of new recruits are local school leavers on an entry level scheme each year.
Mike Lea, Bristol managing partner, said: “Having worked in Bristol for many years, I have witnessed first-hand its changing market place and truly believe that there is a real opportunity for a firm such as ours. Being proudly South West based but with national reach, I’m excited about the breadth of expertise that we can bring to the business community here. I am thrilled to lead PKF Francis Clark as we expand further in this vibrant region.”
Andrew Richards, managing partner, said: “This city has so much to offer both our firm and people, and as we mark our centenary year, we hope to nurture regional talent and develop our established team to provide a truly local offering. Our people have a real understanding of the Bristol market and have identified an opening for us to really support mid-sized businesses here. We hope to provide a personal touch and will be offering an unrivalled array of local services and expertise for every client.”