Dublin Leadership Summit Returns for 4th Year with Powerful Speaker Line-Up

The Dublin Leadership Summit returns for its fourth year on 2nd October 2025 at the iconic Leopardstown Racecourse, bringing together some of Ireland’s most respected voices in business, sport, science and innovation. 

Proudly presented by leading professional services firm AAB and The Dublin Network, the 2025 Summit offers a platform for real conversations about leadership, growth, and resilience in a changing world. 

The event will once again be hosted by the “guru of global philanthropy,” Kingsley Aikins, CEO of The Networking Institute. Kingsley is a renowned expert on the power of connection and building professional relationships, with a career spanning six countries and key roles in trade promotion, diaspora engagement, and philanthropy. A TEDx speaker and CBE awardee for his work on British-Irish relations, Kingsley has developed a methodology that teaches professionals how to build and leverage strong networks to thrive in business and life. Kingsley, with his colleague, Dr. Martin Russell, has established The Diaspora Institute, and they have worked with over 50 countries around the world, helping them establish diaspora engagement strategies. 

Featured Speakers: 

  • Caroline Keeling, Non-Executive Director and Former CEO of Keelings
    Caroline is the former CEO of Keelings, one of Ireland’s largest fruit and vegetable distributors, and now leads CBA Ventures, investing in digital and nutritional healthcare. She is Chair of BEATS Medical, a National Council member of IBEC, and sits on the board of Enterprise Ireland’s Leadership 4 Growth programme. Caroline is also active in philanthropy through roles with Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, Valid Nutrition, and the Ifrah Foundation, and has represented Ireland in the Polo World Cup. 
  • Orlaith Ryan, Co-Founder, CTO & Board Member of Shorla Oncology
    A trailblazer in biotech and pharmaceutical innovation, Orlaith brings over 15 years’ experience in regulatory affairs and oncology development. Under her leadership, Shorla has brought four cancer treatments to the U.S. market, addressing critical unmet medical needs. She is also a Chartered Scientist, governance expert, and educator in regulatory affairs across Europe. 
  • Michael McCambridge, Managing Director of McCambridge
    At the helm of a third-generation family food business celebrating its 80th anniversary, Michael has led McCambridge to become a category leader in Irish traditional breads. A finalist in the 2023 EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards, he champions sustainable business practices, lean operations, and strong Irish provenance. 

Book your place today

Tickets are available for a donation amount, with 100% of proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House Charities, helping to support families of seriously ill children across Ireland. 

“We’re proud to bring the Dublin Leadership Summit back in 2025,” said Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB. “This event reflects the kind of ambition, curiosity and connection we value at AAB – and it’s a brilliant way to bring business leaders together for a greater purpose.”  

Les Dunne from The Dublin Network added, “This summit started as a local idea to spark bigger conversations, and it’s grown into a truly national event. Our speakers this year reflect the diversity, talent and courage of leadership in Ireland today – and we’re honoured to help raise funds for such an important charity.”  

Whether you’re a senior executive, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, this event offers a rare opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to a powerful cause. 

Find out more and secure your ticket today.

AAB shortlisted for Xero and Accounting Excellence National Awards

Leading professional services firm AAB, has been named as a finalist in several prestigious national awards, reflecting the firm’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional client service, driving digital transformation, and providing market-leading expertise across multiple disciplines. 

The first of these awards comes from leading online accounting software provider, Xero. AAB has been shortlisted for “National Partner of the Year” in the 2025 Xero Awards – one of just three firms recognised in this category nationwide. 

The Xero Awards celebrate excellence among firms using Xero’s cloud-based accounting platform. The “National Partner of the Year” award is reserved for partners with a significant national presence who demonstrate outstanding client care, visionary use of Xero technology, and strong advocacy of cloud accounting.  

Xero is a key partner for AAB’s Digital Advisory team, who help SMEs across the UK streamline their financial operations, enhance performance, and unlock new opportunities for growth. Services include systems reviews, digital health checks, software training, and full-scale migrations to cloud accounting platforms like Xero. 

Graham Dyer, Head of Digital Advisory at AAB, commented: “Xero has transformed the way our clients manage their finances – delivering real-time insights and improving efficiency across the board. We’ve worked closely with Xero as a Platinum Partner for many years, and it’s fantastic to be recognised in this way for helping businesses succeed through smarter, cloud-first solutions.” 

In addition to the Xero Awards, AAB has also been shortlisted in three categories at the 2025 Accounting Excellence Awards – widely regarded as one of the industry’s most respected award platforms. 

AAB is a finalist for: 

  • Large Firm of the Year 
  • Tax Team of the Year 
  • Audit Firm of the Year 

These categories acknowledge firms delivering excellence at scale, with a particular focus on client impact, team innovation, and the ability to serve complex needs across a wide range of business types and sectors. 

AAB’s audit and tax teams are recognised for their deep expertise in working with large corporates, mid-market enterprises, and international businesses, while also providing a broad range of integrated services. Whether navigating complex multi-jurisdictional tax matters or adapting to new audit regulations, AAB continues to lead with specialist knowledge, senior-level client relationships, and a strong commitment to quality and collaboration. 

John Beevers, Head of Professional Services at AAB, commented: “Being shortlisted for four national awards across Xero and Accounting Excellence is an incredible honour. It’s a reflection of the outstanding work our teams do – from helping SMEs embrace cloud accounting, to supporting complex businesses with bespoke tax and audit services. The award categories align with our brand, expertise and client-centric ethos, reinforcing the value we deliver every day. It’s a proud moment for our team and underscores their commitment to our clients.” 

Since 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.  

AAB appoints Mark Lappin as Head of Tax to drive strategic growth

Leading professional services firm AAB, has announced the appointment of Mark Lappin as Head of Tax, reinforcing the firm’s ambition to deliver market-leading tax services across the UK, and globally.

Based in London, Mark brings more than 25 years of experience in tax advisory and commercial leadership, including senior roles at EY, where he led go-to-market and sales strategies for the tax division. During his time there, he worked across a global client base, significantly increasing client engagement and driving substantial revenue growth.

At AAB, Mark will lead the continued evolution of the firm’s tax proposition, focused on strategic segmentation, sector alignment, and performance-led delivery. His appointment marks a pivotal moment for AAB’s tax discipline, aligning with the firm’s continued expansion and investment in serving complex client needs across multiple service lines.

The strength of AAB’s tax team has been recognised nationally, with the firm recently shortlisted for ‘Tax Team of the Year’ at the 2025 Accounting Excellence Awards.

Mark commented:

“We are at a pivotal point in the evolution of tax, both in terms of increasing complexity and accelerating change. The expectations of clients, regulators, and our own people are shifting rapidly. Whether it’s navigating the impact of global tax reform, embracing technological transformation, or responding to new compliance and transparency demands, the tax landscape is fundamentally changing.

What attracted me to AAB is the ability to address these challenges head-on, with a team that blends technical excellence with a people-first mindset. AAB’s breadth of expertise, from corporate tax to innovation, indirect tax, customs and private client services, means we can support every type of client, from individuals to SMEs and multi-entity international businesses, under one roof. I’m excited to help our teams and our clients not just respond to these changes, but to capitalise on the opportunities they present.”

John Beevers, Head of Professional Services at AAB, added:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Mark to AAB at a time of both opportunity and transformation across our industry. His deep expertise and authentic leadership style are exactly what we need as we help clients navigate today’s tax complexities, from reform and regulation to technological disruption.

Mark’s collaborative approach will be instrumental in working with other business units across AAB, allowing us to offer clients a truly seamless, joined-up service that combines the best of tax, audit, advisory and beyond. He will play a critical role in shaping the next phase of our journey, ensuring that we remain bold, ambitious, and focused on delivering long-term value for clients.”

AAB’s tax division spans the following key business areas; Corporate Tax, Innovation Taxes, Indirect Tax, Entrepreneurial & Transaction Taxes, Customs Advisory and Private Client, delivering an exceptionally comprehensive and specialist tax offering across the UK market. The specialist teams also work in collaboration with other business units across AAB including global employment taxes, payroll, corporate finance, audit and business advisory. This integrated platform enables the firm to address both strategic and operational tax needs while maintaining senior advisor relationships that are grounded in commercial understanding and trusted delivery.

Mark’s appointment follows a series of senior hires in AAB’s London office, which has become a key strategic hub for the group’s growth. While based in the capital, Mark will lead with a location-agnostic approach, ensuring national consistency while continuing to serve the firm’s clients across the UK and internationally.

Since 2021 AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.

 

AAB invests in talent as three rise to partner level

Leading professional services firm, AAB, has made a significant investment in its talent development strategy with the promotion of three employees to partner level and a further 134 promotions across the team of 1,000 people. This move reflects the company’s commitment to recognising and elevating talent from within, fostering a culture of growth and excellence.

Ashok Thomas, Debbie Mullen and Shane Martin progress to partner from 1st July, these promotions are a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the value the team has consistently delivered to clients and the firm. Each demonstrating an ability to drive results and lead teams effectively, enhancing AAB’s reputation in the industry.

Ashok Thomas has been promoted to Corporate Finance Partner. Ashok started his career at Deloitte, India before working at both KPMG and PKF before relocating to Belfast in 2017 where he joined AAB (formerly FPM). Ashok is passionate about supporting clients in mergers and acquisitions, business valuations, fundraising and strategic financial planning.

Debbie Mullen will take on the role of Audit Partner. Debbie began her career at PwC before joining AAB (formerly FPM) in 2018 as an Audit Manager. Debbie supports clients in a wide range of sectors including construction and manufacturing.

Shane Martin has progressed to the role of Corporate Tax Partner. Shane brings experience to AAB from working at PwC for over ten years. Shane joined AAB in January 2023 and provides corporate tax compliance and advisory services along with specialist innovations tax advice to businesses.

The insights and leadership Ashok, Debbie and Shane bring to the AAB team will be instrumental in navigating the challenges of the evolving market landscape, ensuring that the firm remains responsive to client needs and industry trends.

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB commented: “The promotion of Ashok, Debbie and Shane not only strengthens AAB’s leadership team but also highlights the potential for career growth within AAB through our culture of collaboration and development of our people. We are committed to nurturing talent and creating pathways for team members to reach their professional goals while supporting our clients with the specialist support they need to tackle the most complex business challenges.”

This strategic investment in talent aligns with AAB’s long-term vision of maintaining a dynamic workforce equipped to handle the complexities of today’s business environment. By empowering its employees and promoting from within, AAB reinforces its position as a reputable and trusted partner in the industry.

The firm believes that its employees are its greatest asset and that investing in their development is fundamental to enhancing client satisfaction as well as business success.

As AAB continues to grow, the company remains focused on its mission to deliver exceptional service and value to its clients. AAB now employs more than 1,000 people across 14 locations.

AAB announces new investment from Goldman Sachs Alternatives

Leading professional services firm, AAB, today announced that Goldman Sachs Alternatives has agreed a deal to acquire the firm from August Equity, subject to regulatory approvals.

The transition marks a significant milestone for AAB, reinforcing the firm’s trajectory of sustained growth while ensuring continuity for clients and further strengthening its reputation in the professional services market. AAB became a £100m revenue firm in January 2025 having tripled in size in just three years.

AAB supports businesses and individuals with accounting, tax, audit, corporate finance, HR, payroll and wealth advisory. Since 2021, the firm has experienced exceptional expansion under August Equity’s partnership by tripling in size, completing 16 strategic acquisitions, broadening its footprint across the UK and Ireland while growing the team headcount to over 1,000 people.

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB, said:

“Our partnership with August Equity has been transformational. Their investment and strategic support enabled us to accelerate our growth journey, invest in talent and technology, and expand the range of services we offer to clients. As we welcome our new private equity partner, Goldman Sachs Alternatives, we remain focused on delivering long-term value to our clients and our team while accelerating our growth strategy with exceptional backing.”

Jose Barreto, Partner within Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, who will now support AAB’s continued development, added:

“We are delighted to invest in AAB at this hugely exciting stage in its evolution. As a Top 25 Accounting firm in the UK, we see AAB going from strength to strength and fast becoming a leading provider of professional services to the UK and Irish mid-market.”

Mihir Lal, Managing Director within Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, also added: “We have strong conviction that Goldman Sachs Alternatives can support Emma and her team on a journey of strong growth, technology enablement, and continued M&A across key markets.”

Commenting on the deal, Kishan Chotai, Partner at August, said:

“It has been a pleasure to work with the outstanding team at AAB and support the leadership team and wider business over the last few years. Together, we have delivered a strong and sustainable growth strategy that has positioned AAB as a major force in the UK’s professional services market, and underlines August’s ethos and track record in investing in people-led, essential services businesses. We are proud of what has been accomplished and look forward to following AAB’s journey as it continues to thrive with Goldman Sachs Alternatives.”

August Equity will leave AAB in a strong position to continue its upward trajectory with robust leadership, a diversified service offering, and a proven track record of execution.

As a result of the deal, AAB will further accelerate its growth journey delivering the high-quality service and specialist expertise that clients have come to rely on with the added benefit of increased investment in technology, AI and automation.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in 2025.

AAB and August were advised by William Blair and Alantra (Corporate Finance), OC&C (Commercial), PwC (Financial and Tax) and Addleshaw Goddard (Legal). Goldman Sachs was advised on the transaction by Houlihan Lokey (M&A), Linklaters (Legal), EY Parthenon (Commercial), and EY (Financial & Tax).

AAB continues to expand in Ireland with acquisition of Ryan & Crowley

Leading professional services firm, AAB, has today announced the acquisition of Ryan & Crowley, a respected accountancy and advisory firm based in Dublin, further accelerating their ambitious growth strategy in Ireland.

Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has more than trebled in size through a combination of strategic mergers and acquisitions alongside continued organic growth. The latest deal follows strategic investments across Ireland with Ormsby & Rhodes in January 2025 and FPM in May 2022.

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB said: “Ireland is a key growth market for us and this latest acquisition reflects our long-term commitment to building a significant presence here. Conor and the Ryan & Crowley team share our passion for delivering smart, proactive advice. Both teams pride themselves on developing deep relationships with clients who value what we do.”

Ryan & Crowley, led by Managing Partner Conor Ryan, brings decades of expertise supporting entrepreneurial and family-owned businesses, with a strong reputation for personal service and deep client relationships.

Conor Ryan, Managing Partner at Ryan & Crowley, commented: “This is a truly exciting opportunity for our team and our clients. The shared values and commitment to delivering exceptional service made this a natural fit. We look forward to expanding our offering and capabilities with the support, resources and wider network of Ormsby & Rhodes and AAB.”

The acquisition brings AAB Group’s Irish headcount to over 200 people and follows a series of successful deals across the UK and Ireland. AAB now employs more than 1,000 people across the UK and Ireland.

The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.

Leeds Charity Ball Boosts AABIE Fundraising Total to £200k

Leading professional services firm AAB welcomed over 300 guests to the third AABIE Charity Ball, held for the first time in Leeds on Saturday, 14 June 2025. Taking place at the iconic Aspire venue, the event was a great success, celebrating the growing impact of AABIE as it looks ahead to its 10-year anniversary in 2026.

The evening, hosted by James Hunt, Head of Leeds at AAB, raised an incredible £45,000 for the AABIE Charitable Initiative (known as ‘AABIE’). All proceeds go directly to AABIE, AAB’s charitable initiative supporting a wide range of local causes through funding and volunteering.

James Hunt commented:

“As AAB continues to grow in Leeds and across the wider region, expanding our footprint in the local community is a key priority. The AABIE Charity Ball is a meaningful way for us to live out our commitment to being active members of both our local and global communities. At AAB, we believe in playing our role and living up to our values – doing what we can to learn, teach, preserve, and develop, challenge, and nurture. Supporting AABIE allows us to put this into action, right here in Leeds and across the regions we operate in.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make the Ball such a success – from our generous donors and table hosts to every guest and supporter on the night. Your support enables AABIE to continue making a real difference – thank you.”

Formed in 2016, AABIE empowers AAB team members to support the causes they care about, delivering impact through grant funding and volunteering. To date, AABIE has supported over 320 charities, awarded more than £430,000 in grant funding, and contributed over 7,000 hours of volunteering across the UK and Ireland.

In Leeds, AABIE has recently supported several impactful local projects:

Sheena Anderson, Chair of AABIE, said:

“The funds raised from our three AABIE Balls have made a significant difference to how AABIE operates. Together, they have raised almost £200,000 – helping us to support even more people and causes across every region AAB serves. The generosity shown at this year’s Ball will once again be instrumental in helping us continue our vital work.”

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB, added:

“At AAB, we care deeply for our people, our clients, and the communities we’re part of. Through AABIE, we aim to go above and beyond together, and what makes AABIE so special is that it’s powered by our people – their time, their passion, and their dedication. Events like the AABIE Ball remind us of the difference we can make when we come together for a shared purpose.”

Previous AABIE Balls were held in Aberdeen and Newry, and Leeds now joins this legacy of regional engagement, reflecting AAB’s values and commitment across its growing footprint.

In the last 12 months, AABIE has donated over £135,000 to 86 charities across all Aberdeen, Belfast, Bolton, Bradford, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester and Stirling. Beneficiaries from the latest grant round (which closed on 31 March 2025) included Dean Cauvin Young People’s Trust, which received funding for equipment in a specialist residential house supporting young parents and their babies, and The Enterprise Centre Limited, which delivers the ‘Running with wild animals’ programme for disadvantaged young people aged 11–18. This round also provided top-up grants to support the personal fundraising of 17 AAB team members and delivered 315 hours of community volunteering.

The current AABIE grant round closes on 30 June 2025. More information on how to apply for funding or volunteer time is available at aabgroup.com/aabie.

Leadership hire positions AAB’s Corporate Finance team in Edinburgh to build on success

Leading professional services firm AAB has appointed Paul Turner as Corporate Finance Partner, further strengthening its expanding Corporate Finance Team in Central Scotland. 

In his new role, Paul will lead AAB’s Corporate Finance team in Edinburgh, working closely with Iain Walker and colleagues across Central Scotland and beyond. 

Paul brings over 15 years of experience in mergers and acquisitions and financial due diligence, having most recently been a key member of the Corporate Finance team at Forvis Mazars. He has advised on a wide range of transactions including company sales, acquisitions, management buy-outs, and fundraises, working with large corporates, privately owned businesses, private equity investors, and lenders. 

AAB’s Corporate Finance team continues to go from strength to strength, completing 63 deals in FY25 and 15 transactions already in Q1 of FY26. The firm has continually ranked as Scotland’s top financial adviser for M&A activity by volume, according to Experian’s United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland M&A Review, retaining its number one position. 

Gordon Steele, Head of Corporate Finance at AAB, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Paul to lead our team in Edinburgh. He brings the ideal blend of technical expertise, client focus and leadership that aligns with our ambitions in Central Scotland. Renowned for his commercial acumen and hands-on deal leadership, Paul has a proven track record of delivering high-profile, complex transactions to successful outcomes. He brings a strong network and a highly personalised approach to client service, developing trusted relationships and advising shareholders and stakeholders through the critical stages of a deal process. 

With growth in deal volumes of over 50% last year, Paul’s appointment will help us build on that strong performance and continue delivering outstanding results for our clients.” 

Whilst the UK M&A market continues to evolve there remains strong appetite for high-quality opportunities, particularly in resilient sectors such as technology, healthcare, energy, manufacturing and financial services. Owner-managed businesses are increasingly focused on succession planning, while larger corporates and private equity investors continue to pursue buy-and-build strategies to accelerate growth. International buyers also remain active across the UK, targeting quality businesses as part of their strategic expansion. 

In response to these market dynamics, AAB has seen significant growth in valuation, financial projection, and due diligence work, as businesses prepare earlier for transactions and look to get ahead of a more rigorous due diligence process. The firm’s proactive approach ensures clients are ‘deal ready’ and well positioned to achieve optimal outcomes. 

Stuart Rose, Head of Edinburgh at AAB, added: It is fantastic to have Paul join the leadership team in Edinburgh. Paul’s appointment is a key step in building on the success already achieved by the Corporate Finance team here in Edinburgh and across Central Scotland. His expertise and leadership will play a crucial role in strengthening local relationships and delivering great outcomes for our clients, working collaboratively with colleagues across AAB’s local network and beyond.” 

AAB’s Corporate Finance team supports clients across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. The team provides a comprehensive range of services including M&A advisory, due diligence, valuations, fundraising support, business recovery and insolvency, and litigation support. 

Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.  

AAB appoints Sarah Teshome as Corporate Tax Partner to support growth in Northern England

Leading professional services firm AAB has appointed Sarah Teshome as Corporate Tax Partner, further strengthening its expanding tax team in Leeds. This appointment underscores AAB’s commitment to helping clients across Northern England to navigate the ever-evolving tax landscape and help them to drive sustainable growth. 

Sarah brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as a partner at one of the Big Four firms. She will play a pivotal role in expanding AAB’s international tax and transfer pricing offering, with a focus on supporting international businesses as they navigate increasingly complex and closely scrutinised tax environments. Her expertise will also be instrumental in guiding clients through their growth journeys, particularly those involving international expansion. 

Sarah’s appointment underscores AAB’s continued investment in specialist tax services. Sarah’s expertise in pro-actively leading the delivery of tax services which is commercially aligned to our clients’ strategies is set to strengthen AAB’s offering, particularly in high-growth sectors such as retail, science, and energy. 

The AAB Leeds office has seen considerable growth in recent years, as AAB continues to expand its presence in the region. Sarah will also collaborate closely with the team in Bolton, following AAB’s acquisition of Barlow Andrews last year. Working alongside Barlow Andrews’ corporate tax specialists, Sarah will help deliver high-value support in areas such as transfer pricing, customs, and cross-border structuring, as clients across both cities adapt to legislative changes and look to scale internationally.  

Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said: “I’m excited to join AAB at such a pivotal time in its growth journey. The evolving international tax landscape presents real challenges for businesses, but also huge opportunities when approached with the right strategy. Transfer pricing is a critical part of any international business’s tax framework. With increasing scrutiny from tax authorities and the pace of regulatory change accelerating globally, businesses need strategies that are not only technically sound but also adaptable and aligned with their commercial goals. My focus is on helping clients build future-ready transfer pricing models that can evolve with their operations, manage risk effectively, and support long-term success across jurisdictions.  

“I’m looking forward to working with our teams across Northern England, and further afield, to supporting clients with practical, forward-thinking advice which can make a significant difference to global success.” 

James Hunt, Head of AAB Leeds, added: “Sarah’s arrival is another exciting step in the development of our Leeds office. We’ve seen fantastic growth across the region, and we’re continuing to build a team that can deliver the full range of services to our clients. With strong links across Northern England, and a focus on collaboration across locations, we’re creating opportunities to deliver specialist expertise with local knowledge. We’re delighted to welcome Sarah to the team.” 

Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030. 

AAB strengthens senior leadership team to drive growth in London

Leading professional services firm AAB has expanded its senior team in London, underlining its strategic commitment to growth and enhanced client support in the capital.

AAB, a top-25 UK firm that has trebled in size since 2021, has appointed Jai Raja as Audit Partner, James Snape as Audit Director, and Greg Smythe as Tax Director to bolster its audit and tax capabilities to meet growing demand. These appointments represent a strategic shift toward deeper local investment in London, building on three consecutive years of 30% combined annual audit and tax growth. AAB is focused on expanding its London presence to support existing clients and capture new market opportunities.

Jai Raja brings over 20 years of experience in audit, including senior roles within Big 4 and top 10 firms, with a focus on large infrastructure corporates and developing high-performing teams. James Snape adds more than a decade of financial leadership across practice and industry, including a CFO role, and has expertise in real estate and construction clients. Greg Smythe, appointed as Tax Director, brings significant expertise in international and corporation tax, advising both global and UK-based clients on complex restructuring and refinancing matters.

With over 100 team members and all core business units now represented in the London office, AAB is well-positioned to deliver integrated audit, tax, and advisory services to complex, high-growth businesses. This senior-level expansion also develops further opportunities for collaboration between audit and tax teams. This joined-up approach positions the firm to provide comprehensive solutions for businesses operating in increasingly regulated and fast-changing environments both in the UK and internationally.

John Beevers, Head of Professional Services at AAB, commented: “Our senior team in London continues to grow in strength and depth. The appointments of Jai, James and Greg to our senior team reflect our commitment to investing in both audit and tax and allow us to offer more comprehensive support to clients across key sectors.

“We’re seeing a consistent trend, particularly among large domestic and international corporates, of clients seeking service providers who can deliver both audit and tax under one roof. With our expanding team and collaborative model, we’re exceptionally well placed to meet that need and continue our growth journey in the capital.”

The announcement is also timely given the significant changes across both the audit and tax landscapes. Evolving regulatory frameworks, updates to accounting standards such as FRS 102, and the growing importance of technology and AI are reshaping how services are delivered. In tax, increased scrutiny from HMRC, shifting international tax rules, and greater complexity in areas such as transfer pricing, customs and restructuring are creating new challenges for businesses. AAB remains committed to investing in these areas, from regulatory readiness to digital innovation, to stay ahead of industry transformation and ensure clients receive proactive, tech-driven support.

Emma Lancaster, CEO of AAB, added: “Our continued investment in London is a vital part of our wider growth journey. While we’ve supported clients here for years, this is the next chapter in building our local presence. By expanding our senior team and deepening our community engagement, we’re making sure we can support existing clients more effectively and open the door to new opportunities.”

This announcement follows AAB Wealth’s recent acquisition of Magus Wealth, a deal which boosted their Assets Under Advice (AuA) to £1.8billion, reinforcing AAB’s strategic investment in London, across all business units.

Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.