Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has announced a new head of tax on the back of continued growth in Scotland.
James Paterson joined BDO in 2006 having trained in BDO’s London real estate tax team before relocating back to Scotland in 2016 and making partner in 2017.
In his new role as head of tax, he will lead the local tax team across the firm’s Edinburgh and Glasgow offices and working with more than 1,000 tax professionals across the UK.
This news follows the announcement that Mark McCluskey has been made regional managing partner in Scotland. Nearly 100 people were promoted across its Scottish teams – 50 people in its Edinburgh office and a further 48 in Glasgow.
James succeeds Martin Bell who successfully drove the practice for the last 14 years. Martin will continue in his role as a tax partner and will continue to help his clients navigate tax challenges.
Commenting on his new role, James Paterson, said: “As the tax landscape continues to evolve and with a budget on the horizon, it’s never been more important to be able to offer clear, quality advice that helps clients navigate change, unlock opportunities and manage risk. Martin has built a strong practice with a client-first approach, and I’d like to thank him for his support and guidance. I’m really looking forward to the new role and working with our talented teams to help our Scottish clients succeed.”
Mark McCluskey, regional managing partner in Scotland, adds: “I’m delighted to be working with James to continue to grow our business in Scotland. We believe in the growth potential of businesses in Scotland, and we are perfectly positioned to unlock this, as we cement our position amongst those mid-market businesses that drive the Scottish economy.”
BDO continues to invest in the Scottish market and has signed a 10-year lease at 30 Semple Street in Edinburgh. This follows investment in 2022 when BDO committed to a 10-year lease of more than 8,000 sq ft at 2 Atlantic Square in Glasgow.
