FOUR newly promoted partners and directors are embarking on the next stage of their careers with PKF Francis Clark.

Ben Lee and Ryan Prynne have become partners in the firm’s latest round of promotions, while legal sector specialist Nick Barnes and corporate services specialist and tax adviser Rob Deare have been promoted to directors.

Mr Lee heads PKF Francis Clark’s business services team in Taunton and Bristol. As the firm’s head of blockchain and cryptocurrency, he has also established himself as a nationally renowned expert in this rapidly-evolving area.

He said: “I joined PKF Francis Clark in 2018 after moving to the South West from London, and I’m really glad to have joined a progressive, forward-looking firm that complements my modern take on how the profession can operate.

"They have supported me in pursuing my passion for crypto, and I’m very proud to lead an offering for clients involved in the digital asset space alongside my role as a client engagement partner.

"I’m truly grateful for the many colleagues who make the firm a pleasure to be a part of.”

Somerset County Gazette:

Ben Lee and Ryan Prynne.

Mr Prynne, a family business specialist based in Torquay, said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed a partner in PKF Francis Clark.

"I joined the firm in August 2012 and knew almost instantly that this was the place I wanted to develop my career.

"PKF Francis Clark recognises the importance of its people and I’ve seen first-hand how they invest in the long-term development of their staff.

“Although I act for clients all over the country, Devon is my home and I consider myself extremely fortunate to be working with some brilliant people, in a forward-thinking firm that’s just a few minutes from the beach.

"I’m genuinely excited about my future with PKF Francis Clark and, in particular, mentoring and developing others within the firm to provide additional support for our many family business clients.”

New directors Mr Barnes and Mr Deare have been with PKF Francis Clark since 2003 and 2013 respectively, based at the firm’s offices in Truro and Exeter.

Somerset County Gazette:

Rob Deare and Nick Barnes.

Managing partner Andrew Richards said: “Alongside recruiting experienced professionals as we continue to grow our teams, developing our next generation of leaders within PKF Francis Clark is crucial to our success and the quality of service we deliver to our clients, so I’m hugely encouraged by the calibre of people we have progressing through the ranks.

“Congratulations to Ben, Ryan, Rob and Nick on their thoroughly deserved promotions. They have all worked very hard to get to this point and I look forward to seeing them flourish as they take this next step in their careers.”

Applications are currently open for PKF Francis Clark’s 2022 graduate and school leaver accountancy apprenticeships. More information can be found at pkf-francisclarkcareers.co.uk