Member Article

New chair for Merseyside branch of The CIOT

The Merseyside branch of the Chartered Institute of Taxation’s (CIOT) has appointed a new chairperson.

Michael Spencer, current vice chair and assistant manager at business advisory firm Grant Thornton’s Liverpool office, has been selected to head up the local branch of the CIOT, the leading professional body for tax advisers in the UK which has more than 1,000 members and students in Merseyside.

He has worked at Grant Thornton’s Liverpool office for the last three years, specialising in advising entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses, and has been an active member of the CIOT’s committee for the same period. Spencer succeeds Grant Thornton colleague Rob Adams, who has chaired the branch since 2014.

Spencer said: “With the raft of changes that the UK tax legislation is set to undergo over the next 12 months, there’s never been a more important time for tax experts to maintain their professional development.

“During Rob’s tenure he has built an industry-leading programme of CPD events and organised a raft of networking events, featuring heavyweight speakers, which have had great engagement from the wider Merseyside business community.

“I’m delighted to pick up the mantle from him and look forward to further developing the CIOT’s presence in the region.”

Neil Sturmey, tax partner at Grant Thornton’s Liverpool office, added: Neil Sturmey, tax partner at Grant Thornton’s Liverpool office, added: “As Merseyside’s largest business advisers, Grant Thornton is committed to promoting professional standards and personal development in the region.

“We have been long-term supporters of the CIOT, and Michael’s selection is a real vote of confidence in the firm, and our people. I’d like to congratulate him on the appointment and commend Rob for his work over the last three years.”

The CIOT is a not-for-profit organisation its purpose is to promote education in taxation and to communicate the role of the Institute to a wide stakeholder group.

The Merseyside branch of the CIOT has around 700 qualified members and 300 students who are studying for their qualification. It has a calendar of CPD events, including a combination of workshops and lectures.

Nationally the CIOT has 17,000 Chartered Tax Adviser members who are subject to the Institute’s professional standards and are supported by its London head office and worldwide network of 40 branches.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Bernard Stuart .