S&W launches today as a leader in the accountancy mid-market
The independent accountancy and advisory business (which is due to formally separate from Evelyn Partners today) has launched under a new brand – S&W – building on the firm’s heritage but with a clear signal to a new, well invested, client-focused organisation at the forefront of providing the highest quality advice.
With new investment from the Apax Funds, S&W will invest behind and grow its strong talent base, further develop its technology offering to be at the forefront of delivery and continue to strengthen S&W’s offerings to its clients by backing the business to drive value through M&A.
S&W launches as one of the UK’s fastest growing accountancy firms, with c1,800 employees and more than 120 partners operating from 15 towns and cities in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
As a leader in the accountancy mid-market, S&W offers clients a broad range of services spanning business and private client tax advice, assurance and business services and a suite of advisory and digital services that include recovery and restructuring, transaction services and forensic advice.
Andrew Wilkes, previously chief professional services director of Evelyn Partners, assumes the role of CEO of S&W, with Andrew Baddeley, former group chief financial officer of Evelyn Partners, becoming CFO at S&W.
Andrew Wilkes, CEO of S&W commented: “This is a really exciting day for the entire team as we launch S&W with backing from Apax Partners. S&W combines the heritage of Smith & Williamson, which was founded in 1881, with a new brand and philosophies driving the business to cement its leadership position in the accountancy mid-market.
“Under S&W we are committed to continue delivering the high-quality accountancy and advisory services that our clients expect from our experienced teams.
“We look forward to having the Apax Funds invest in the business, providing capital and knowledge to drive future growth. The launch of S&W gives us a platform to continue our M&A programme and attract further top talent at all levels.”
Frank Ehmer, partner at Apax commented: “As we mentioned in previous communications, we prioritised S&W as the ideal UK platform, given its market-leading position, and an unrivalled reputation from which the business can look to scale new heights.
“Now we have the chance to really get going and are excited to invest behind the platform, building the business to fulfil its greatest potential in the coming years.”