Thornton dealmaker to step down

Ian Marwood, a partner at the firm, who has led the corporate finance team across its Leeds and Sheffield offices over the last 11 years, will leave at the end of the year. “After 25 years in corporate finance, I feel the time is right for a change of direction,” said Mr Marwood.

“Having helped to secure a strong position for the practice in the Yorkshire marketplace and with a number of deals currently at an advanced stage, it is an opportune time for me to step down and pursue new challenges.”

As well as continuing to work with Grant Thornton on a consultancy basis for some clients, he also plans to take on a number of independent advisory roles within businesses.

Jonathan Riley, senior partner for Grant Thornton in Yorkshire, said: “Ian is widely recognised as one of the leading dealmakers in the region and he has been instrumental in helping us to establish such a well-respected corporate finance practice. He has been a great colleague and we wish him well for the future.”

Mr Marwood, 51, added: “I am proud of the exceptional team we have built up in the Yorkshire corporate advisory practice, with partners Will Oxley, Ali Sharifi and Joe McLean, assisted by the likes of Steve Hammell in Leeds and Claire Davis in Sheffield, and I’m confident that the firm will continue to be a major player, providing an outstanding service for clients.”