King crowned as managing partner for region

Mr King, 41, who joined the firm in 2006, has been head of audit for Baker Tilly in West Yorkshire for two years.

In his new role, which he starts next month, he will be responsible for leading the firm's offices in Leeds and Saltaire, near Bradford.

He specialises in advising large corporate and listed organisations and was recently appointed to the steering committee at Financial Leeds.

Mr King takes over from Kevin O'Connor, who has been promoted to regional managing partner for Baker Tilly, with responsibility for the firm across the north of England and Scotland.

He will also join the National Management Board of the firm.

Mr O'Connor has been office managing partner in West Yorkshire since 2002 and during this time has grown turnover from 4.5m to more than 15m.

Mr King said: "This is of course a very exciting role and I'm

honoured to be taking over from Kevin.

"I consider myself very fortunate to be heading up an incredibly successful office with great partners and real strength throughout the staff group.

"The next year will continue to provide a number of challenges for the business community, but I'm convinced we have the range of services and depth of knowledge to make a real difference.

"Though continuing our recent growth within West Yorkshire is important, the firm's number one priority will remain the delivery of service quality that is second to no one."

Mr O'Connor said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of being managing partner in Leeds and Saltaire – particularly the last couple of years following the successful merger with Howarth Clark Whitehill (Yorkshire).

"Richard has made a real impact since joining us as a partner in 2006.

"I've no doubt that he will make a big impression in his new role and continue to drive the practice within West Yorkshire on to even greater success."