BDO names new head of M&A

Accountancy and advisory firm BDO has appointed James Vallence as head of M&A in its Southampton office.

James takes over from partner Helen O’Kane, who will retire in early 2026, and will lead the deals team across the Central South region. 

A corporate finance director at the firm since 2017, James has advised on numerous transactions involving trade buyers, private equity and growth fundraising.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking over the reins from Helen, who joined the Southampton M&A team in 2003 and has built an excellent team of deals specialists.

“With strong foundations in place, I’m really looking forward to working with the team to support regional businesses in delivering transactions, with a specific mandate on opportunities in and around Hampshire, Dorset and the Solent region.”

Helen added: “BDO is ideally placed to capitalise on the opportunities that exist in the local market. 

“We have a fantastic team in the region and James is the perfect appointment to continue to develop this further – I wish him every success in his new role.” 

James’ appointment is part of continued investment in BDO’s 30-strong deals team across Southampton, Reading and Bristol.

Steve Le Bas, regional managing partner in Southampton, said: “As the largest professional services firm in the region, we’re committed to responsible and sustainable growth, investing significantly in the local market.

“James’ appointment is a positive step forward for our deals team and demonstrates our desire to nurture and reward talent, whether that’s across deals or our wider offering in tax and audit.”

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