South: BDO and PKF merger completes

Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has announced that its merger with PKF (UK) LLP has completed. From today, the firm will operate as one, under the BDO brand and as part of BDO’s international network, the largest global accountancy organisation aimed at the mid-market, with revenues of over $6 billion operating in 138 countries worldwide. The firm has also announced its senior management team, including the partners responsible for the 340 people working for clients across the Thames Valley and Solent. Simon Brooker will be heading up the Reading office from completion, and Malcolm Thixton will lead the team in Southampton.

Brooker said: “As a firm, we are committed to local businesses across the South. The merger will provide broader and deeper expertise and international reach for many of our ambitious clients on a local basis, but will also allow staff to gain broader experience from working in an enlarged firm. The focus from today is on ensuring a smooth integration of the two firms and continuing delivery of exceptional service to all clients.”

The merger creates mid-market sector leadership across almost all sectors for BDO, including retail, manufacturing, natural resources, TMT and financial services. The firm is also the leading adviser for AIM businesses.

Commenting on the merger, Simon Michaels, managing partner of BDO LLP, said: “It’s time for people to think again about BDO. The merger has transformed our market presence overnight. Senior leadership is a critical factor in making the merger a success but I know this team is the right mix to build on our ambitions still further and respond quickly to the domestic and international environment. We also remain focused on delivering exceptional service to our clients and creating the right environment for our people to develop and grow.”

Simon Brooker and Malcolm Thixton