Accountants complete merger

The merged firm is now operating as a single unit, under the BDO brand, and as part of BDO’s international network.

Ian Beaumont will be heading up the combined firm’s Leeds and Sheffield offices.

The combined operation employs around 200 staff in Yorkshire. BDO and PKF revealed that they planned to merge in December last year.

Mr Beaumont said yesterday: “The announcement demonstrates both firms’ ongoing commitment to Yorkshire. The merger will greatly benefit the region’s professional community.

“It 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.

“My focus from today is on ensuring a smooth integration of the two firms and continuing delivery of exceptional service to all clients.”

BDO has also confirmed that the BDO and PKF operations in Leeds will be based in the same building by July this year.

They will operate from BDO’s existing office at Bridgewater Place in Leeds.

Simon Michaels, the managing partner of BDO, 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.”