This week's Yorkshire appointments

Neville Wray, Cognito Learning

Technology and learning specialist Cognito Learning has appointed Neville Wray as business development manager.

Neville joins the firm from Safety Business Learning, where he spent seven years managing the sales operation and generating revenue for the learning management system provider.

Neville commented: “Having operated in the more traditional e-Learning space, within the educational technology sector, I could see that what Cognito Learning has to offer is true evolution.

“The Cognito Learning app is the final piece in the training and development puzzle, as it ensures what people learn actually sticks. Cognito Learning works in every sector – so the opportunities are vast.”

“I wanted a role that has diversity, client engagement and most importantly a company ethos I can believe in and be passionate about - Cognito Learning ticked all of those boxes.”

Mike Routledge, managing director at Cognito Learning, added: “This year we have been named as one of the UK’s best and most innovative technology companies in the prestigious Rising Stars 3.0 competition.

“We are keen to build on this recognition and the positive client feedback we have received throughout 2020 by appointing a seasoned sales professional like Neville, who has over 20 years of sales experience.

“We are currently in discussions with several major German and Japanese motor manufacturers, a large US tech business and a number of international maritime organisations and Neville’s appointment will assist us with our plan to more than double our turnover by the end of 2021.”

Mark Bain, Mark Knowlson and Jess Haunch, Hentons

Chartered accountancy and business advisory firm Hentons has made a key senior appointment and two internal promotions.

Hentons has appointed Mark Bain as a partner, while Mark Knowlson and Jess Haunch have both been promoted to director.

With over 20 years’ experience, chartered accountant Mark has moved from New Zealand to head up the 45-strong audit and accounts team in Leeds.

Mark joins from McCulloch + Partners, which is part of the Baker Tilly network, where he was managing partner.

Mark commented: “Following my relocation back to the UK, I wanted a new professional challenge that would utilise the diverse experience and skills that I have developed during my successful practice career.

“Hentons stood out as one of the country’s leading independent accountancy practices, with an impressive growth trajectory, an inspiring team, and a broad client base.”

Managing director at Hentons, Peter Watson, commented: “Mark was right on point for our business. He is the ideal person to lead our team in Leeds and we were particularly impressed with his professional reputation and approachable character.

“Mark will build on the strong, positive team culture and innovative client service we currently provide.

“His experience in change management, delivering organic growth and ability to foster a strong cross selling culture, along with his commitment to supporting staff engagement and retention, all really impressed us. There’s no doubt he will add value to both our team and clients.”

Commenting on the promotions of Mark Knowlson and Jess Haunch, Peter added: “Over the last three years we have embarked on an exciting acquisition strategy, which included York firm Forster Stott.

“Mark has been instrumental in supporting the integration of its team and clients into Hentons. He has driven the development of the workflow system, the digitalisation of the office and the migration of client relationships to the new management team. He has also taken an active role in business development.

“Jess, who heads the payroll team, joined our business from school and is a fantastic example of the career progression opportunities at Hentons. Over the last eight years she has made an outstanding contribution to the firm.

“Recently, her work providing clients with vital job retention scheme advice and guidance throughout Covid-19 has been impeccable and has been a guiding light for many businesses at a very difficult time.”

Rachael Scott, Williamsons Solicitors

Williamsons Solicitors has appointed Rachael Scott as solicitor in its wills and probate department.

Rachael has secured the role after completing an 18-month training contract with the East Yorkshire firm.

Rachael took a degree in law at the University of York before completing her Legal Practice Course and Masters in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Law, Leeds. She also gained experience working at another firm as paralegal before commencing her training at Williamsons.

Rachael commented: “You need to be professional, sensitive and supportive. I am a ‘people person’ and this area of law allows me to build relationships with clients and become a trusted confidante, while helping to meet their needs with the appropriate advice and guidance.

“I am committed to working in wills and probate and very much enjoy the variety it brings. I’ve had fantastic levels of support at Williamsons and I’ve appreciated learning from the senior solicitors while immersing myself in the department’s day-to-day work.”

Jane Cousins, a director at Williamsons Solicitors and head of the wills and probate department, added: “[Rachael] has exactly the right personality and the right approach to looking after clients.

“She is eager to learn and diligent. We all look forward to watching her career develop at the firm.”