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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.
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.
Leading Ireland and UK professional services firm, AAB, swept the board at the prestigious Irish Accountancy Awards which took place at the Royal Dublin Convention Centre on 1 May, winning two awards. Senior Partner and Head of Family Business, Feargal McCormack, also received the Outstanding Contribution to Irish Accountancy Award, in recognition of his exceptional and long-standing dedication to the accountancy profession.
Since receiving investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs over 1,000 people. With all core business units established in Ireland AAB is well positioned to sustain its strong track record of at least 10% year-on-year growth in the region.
AAB, won the Employer of the Year award in recognition of their value-driven workplace culture and commitment to nurturing talent. They have a successful and well-established early careers programme for graduates, apprentices and work experience students, and support team members to develop throughout their careers. As well as engaging consistently with team members across the organisation, they implement an industry leading employee benefit and incentive package.
AAB also triumphed in the Tax Team of the Year category. The team’s ability to navigate complex cross-border issues while maintaining the highest standards of client service was cited in their award of this accolade.
Awarded by Chartered Accountants Ireland, the award recognises Feargal’s sustained commitment to the advancement of the profession and acknowledges his outstanding abilities and devotion to his peers and the wider industry.
A former President of the professional body (2018 – 2019), Feargal founded the award-winning FPM in 1991. Initially operating as a sole trader, Feargal built FPM into an award-winning best practice business. His tenure at FPM and subsequently AAB has been marked by unparalleled client service, innovation, and impactful contributions to both the community and economy. His profound expertise in the complex dynamics of family business and succession have established him as a recognised authority on the subject, and a pillar of support for many of Ireland’s top family enterprises.
This latest accolade follows the Managing Partner of the Year award at the 2018 British Accountancy Awards and the Irish Accountant of the Year title in 2019. In 2022, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Business Eye Magazine Awards for significant and lasting contributions to business, the accounting sector, the NI business community and the economy as a whole.
Feargal has been awarded Honorary Doctorate degrees by both Queen’s University Belfast (2021) and Ulster University (2018) for his contribution to business and community on the island of Ireland.
He is currently Senior Independent Governor on the Queen’s University Senate, Chairman of the GAA National Finance Committee at Croke Park, a Director of Co-operation Ireland and a Patron of Special Olympics Ireland.
On accepting his award, Feargal said: “I’m deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Accountancy Award. Chartered Accountants Ireland has been central to my professional journey, and it was particularly meaningful to be recognised by CEO Barry Dempsey as he nears the end of his own distinguished tenure. This award reflects not just my own journey, but the collective effort of the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege to work with at FPM and now AAB. I’m proud of the legacy we’ve built together and excited for what the future holds.”
Emma Lancaster, CEO at AAB, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the recognition AAB has received at the Irish Accountancy Awards. These accolades reflect the hard work, talent, and commitment of our exceptional team across Ireland. I want to particularly acknowledge Feargal McCormack, whose leadership and lifelong dedication to the profession have rightly earned him the Outstanding Contribution to Irish Accountancy Award. Feargal’s vision, values, and tireless support of clients, colleagues, and the wider community have helped shape the success of our business in Ireland.
“These awards mark an important milestone for AAB as we continue to invest in our team and expand our presence across Ireland. Our focus remains on building a high-performing, people-centred business; one that attracts, develops, and retains the best people, and, working as one team, supports ambitious clients whilst creating exceptional opportunities as we deliver on our long-term growth strategy.
The recent recognition at the Irish Accountancy Awards highlights the growing impact of AAB in the region. Following its merger with Dublin-based Ormsby & Rhodes earlier this year, the firm now operates from six offices and employs more than 170 professionals across Ireland, dedicated to supporting clients locally and internationally. AAB is firmly focused on long-term investment in Ireland, as part of its ongoing growth journey, which is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030.
AAB’s award-winning chartered financial planning team, AAB Wealth, continues to implement its strategic growth plan with the acquisition of prominent London-based financial planning firm, Magus Wealth. This deal boosts their Assets under Advice (AuA) to £1.8billion, an uplift of £650million.
Marking AAB’s first wealth acquisition in the capital, this move signals a strategic focus on expanding their footprint, and growing their team in London and the South-east.
Headquartered near Gatwick, with an office in the City of London, Magus Wealth was established in 1998, bringing over 25 years of experience and a robust client base. Aligning seamlessly with AAB Wealth’s commitment to delivering personalised financial planning, this strategic expansion not only broadens AAB Wealth’s geographical reach but also enhances its capacity to offer specialised advice to clients.
Andrew Dines, Head of AAB Wealth, commented:
“Joining together two highly regarded firms, doubling the size of our team and extending our services into the London market, with the opportunities that represents, is a transformative step for AAB Wealth. It reflects our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional financial planning services across the UK. We are excited to welcome our new colleagues and clients.”
Michael Aitken, Founder and Chairman at Magus Wealth, added:
“Joining AAB Wealth marks an exciting new chapter for our team and our clients. From our very first conversations it was clear that our values and vision for providing the very highest quality, client-focused financial planning, were perfectly aligned. AAB Wealth’s reputation for excellence and innovation in financial planning makes this a perfect fit. We are delighted to become part of a firm that prioritises both client success and professional growth for the team, and we look forward to continuing to expand the business across the UK.”
This deal represents AAB Wealth’s fourth acquisition in the last 2 years, underscoring the firm’s strategic growth and commitment to excellence in the financial planning sector.
AAB Wealth is currently ranked 7th in the Top 100 Financial Adviser Firms for 2024 by FT Adviser. The firm was also honoured with the PFS Financial Planning Firm of the Year award in 2023, and has been recognised as a top-rated firm by VouchedFor, the UK’s leading review site for financial planners and advisers.
AAB Wealth is part of AAB and 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.
The acquisition of Magus Wealth is subject to regulatory approval.
Analysis and commentary from AAB’s team of tax experts, identifying the key changes and outlining the practical implications of the Spring Statement 2024 for you and your business.
Leading UK and Ireland professional services firm, AAB, has announced a new Head of Office in Aberdeen. Derek Mair is set to step into the role as Head of Office, succeeding Graeme Allan, from 1 April 2025.
With over 1,000 team members across 14 offices, AAB has experienced significant growth in recent years. Nonetheless, as home to more than a quarter of AAB’s team, Aberdeen remains a core part of the firm’s strategy. The appointment of a new Head of Office reinforces AAB’s commitment to strengthening its regional hubs, supporting its people, and delivering exceptional service to clients.
Derek Mair, who joined AAB in 1996, specialises in audit, assurance and advisory services for businesses ranging from start-ups to large international groups. He has played a significant role in AAB’s growth in Aberdeen, with his extensive experience in complex audits spaning multiple sectors, including food and drink, hospitality, energy and shipping. Known for his collaborative approach, Derek is dedicated to fostering growth within AAB, mentoring the next generation of professionals and delivering strategic financial insights to clients with intricate business structures.
In his new role, Derek will continue advising his audit clients while also working closely with AAB’s Heads of Offices across the country to enhance the firm’s ability to provide integrated, market-specific solutions.
Commenting on his appointment, Derek said:
“Our team in Aberdeen continues to grow from strength to strength, helping clients achieve their personal and business ambitions with a diverse range of expertise under one roof. I am honoured to step into this role and look forward to guiding our team through AAB’s next phase of growth, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation while delivering tailored solutions that meet our clients’ evolving needs.”
Graeme Allan, who has been at AAB for more than 18 years, has been instrumental in developing and executing AAB’s strategic growth plans over the past decade in his role as Chief Executive and latterly both Group Executive Director and Head of Office in Aberdeen. He will transition into a Non-Executive Director role, remaining on the AAB Group Board of Directors.
Graeme added:
“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved at AAB, a testament to our talented team and their unwavering commitment to our clients. Aberdeen is where our journey began, and it remains a vital part of our future. Appointing Derek as Head of Office strengthens our focus on supporting our people and expanding our capabilities in the region. With his leadership, we will continue to build on our success, drive forward our ambitions, and help our clients achieve their goals.”
This leadership transition reflects AAB’s ongoing investment in its people, clients, and strategic growth, ensuring the firm continues to evolve and lead in a dynamic business landscape.
Leading UK and Ireland professional services firm, AAB, has announced the appointment of two new Partners within Central Scotland. Erica Fitchie joins as Corporate Tax Partner, specialising in international tax and transfer pricing, alongside Alistair Stewart, who joins as Business Development Partner.
Erica has an impressive track record in supporting large corporates, fast-growing businesses and private equity backed groups to navigate and simplify tax complexities. Erica has a wealth of experience advising businesses across all sectors but has deep knowledge of tax issues in the energy industry, working in particular with oilfield service providers, renewable energy developers, and offshore contractors.
She provides expert guidance on structuring tax operating models and financing solutions, ensuring alignment with value chains at every stage of a business’s life cycle. Her expertise also positions her well to assist clients with managing compliance, transfer pricing policies and tax strategy.
Alistair Stewart has a strong track record in driving business growth. He has worked extensively across professional and financial services, including 12 years at Barclays Corporate Banking. Skilled in supporting scaling businesses, navigating international markets and planning exit strategies, he excels at forging strong partnerships with like-minded clients and colleagues to deliver impactful, tailored solutions.
In his role at AAB, Alistair will leverage the Group’s wide range of services and personal touch to help clients overcome challenges, achieve ambitions and create long-lasting value. Alistair’s appointment underscores AAB’s commitment to accelerating growth across Central Scotland, supporting all service lines through its Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling offices.
Angus McCuaig, Head of Glasgow at AAB commented:
“We are delighted to welcome both Erica and Alistair to AAB. Erica’s deep expertise in international tax and transfer pricing, coupled with her niche focus on the energy sector, brings invaluable insight for businesses navigating complex challenges. Alistair’s extensive track record in business development and growth strategy further strengthens our ability to support clients in achieving their ambitions. Their appointments mark significant milestones in our growth journey, and by adding more experience to our fantastic team, we continue to build on the tailored, market leading services we deliver for our clients.”
AAB also recently announced the appointment of Leeds-based Sarah Hex as Business Development Partner. An accomplished business development and client services leader, Sarah brings over 20 years of experience in professional, financial and investment services. Based in the firm’s Leeds office, she will lead strategic business development for AAB across the North of England.
Leading professional services firm, AAB, has invested in Ormsby & Rhodes, one of the longest-established firms in Ireland, strengthening its international presence and access to the European market. The deal propels AAB past the £100m revenue mark.
Ormsby & Rhodes was established in 1911 and is consistently ranked in the top 20 firms in Ireland. Ormsby & Rhodes is a €7m+ revenue business which provides audit, accounting, tax, payroll, company secretarial and business advisory support to a wide range of clients in Ireland. The business will continue trading as Ormsby & Rhodes and all 10 partners remain committed to driving the business forward which provides client continuity.
Emma Lancaster, CEO at AAB commented: “This strategic move follows on from our first successful investment in Ireland in 2022 and will bolster our international reach through growth opportunities across Europe. Our commitment remains focused on delivering the highest quality of service for our clients while fostering lasting partnerships built on trust enabling our clients to succeed.”
David Marsh, Managing Partner at Ormsby & Rhodes added: “As trusted advisors to a wide range of clients and businesses, this investment from AAB will open up new opportunities for our clients to prosper and for our team to thrive professionally. Our clients will benefit from an expanded pool of expertise, enabling us to provide even more comprehensive and tailored advice, no matter how complex the requirements. We look forward to building on our success while maintaining the trusted client relationships that have always been at the heart of our business.”
Leading professional services firm, AAB, has today announced the promotion of three team members to Partner, effective January 2025. This milestone reflects the company’s continued commitment to investing in its people and fostering leadership from within.
The newly promoted Partners are:
These promotions highlight AAB’s strategy of nurturing talent, driving excellence, and ensuring sustained client success. Each of the newly appointed Partners has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s growth in their respective areas, strengthening client relationships, and delivering exceptional professional services.
Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive of AAB, commented: “We are delighted to recognise the hard work of Ian, Graham and David with their promotions. Their dedication, expertise, and leadership have been instrumental in driving our success. Promoting from within is a core part of our culture, and these appointments reflect both their outstanding contributions and our belief in their ability to help shape the future of AAB. We are excited about the journey ahead.”
The promotions come at an exciting time for AAB as the firm continues its strategic growth journey, expanding services and enhancing capabilities to meet evolving client needs. A further 121 people across the business have been recognised with promotions in January 2025. Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people across the UK, Ireland and internationally.
Analysis and commentary from AAB’s team of tax experts, identifying the key changes and outlining the practical implications of the Autumn Budget 2024 for you and your business.
Our team of tax experts have summarised some of the main changes in our guide, here’s some of the highlights:
In our Autumn Budget Guide, we explore the impact of these changes on you and your business. Navigating these changes can be challenging. Our tax experts have summarised the main changes announced by the chancellor.
Looking for commentary on Budget Ireland 2025? You can download analysis and commentary from AAB’s team of tax experts, identifying the key changes and outlining the practical implications for you and your business.