AAB appoints hotel accounting head

Professional services firm AAB has appointed Simon Bachelor as head of hotel accounting as it continues to invest in specialist sector expertise across the UK and Ireland.

Simon brings more than 20 years’ experience across hotel finance, operations and hospitality management, including almost eight years working in operational roles within the sector.

In his new role, he will lead AAB’s specialist team supporting hotels, hotel groups, management companies, family and owner-managed businesses and hospitality investors.

His remit will include growing the firm’s hotel accounting offering, developing its team and helping clients improve performance through industry expertise, commercial insight and technology.

Simon said: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of head of hotel accounting at AAB. 

“Hospitality has been at the heart of my career, both from a finance and operational perspective, and that experience gives me a deep appreciation of the challenges and opportunities our clients face every day.

“My focus is on continuing to build a service that helps hotel businesses operate more effectively, improve profitability and make informed decisions.

“We are trusted advisers who understand the realities of running a hospitality business and work collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals.”

AAB’s hotel accounting team provides services spanning management accounting, financial reporting, business analytics, benchmarking, budgeting and forecasting.

Simon succeeds Ian Bremner, who has retired after leading the division and helping develop its presence within the hospitality sector.

His arrival comes as AAB continues to expand across the UK and Ireland. 

Backed by Goldman Sachs Alternatives, the firm now employs more than 1900 people and generates annual revenue of more than £200 million.

John Beevers, head of regions at AAB, added: “At AAB, our strategy is built around combining strong local relationships with deep specialist expertise. 

“Simon’s appointment further strengthens our hospitality offering and ensures clients across our growing network of regional offices have access to market-leading hotel accounting support from a team that truly understands the sector.

“As we continue to grow, we're focused on investing in exceptional people who can help clients navigate complexity, improve performance and realise their ambitions. 

“Simon brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for the hospitality industry, making him the ideal person to lead the next chapter of our hotel accounting team.”

James Hunt, head of North East England at AAB, added: “The North East and Yorkshire region continues to present significant opportunities within the hospitality sector, with businesses focused on growth, investment and enhancing the guest experience. 

“Simon’s appointment further strengthens the specialist expertise available to clients and ensures they can access market-leading support from advisers who understand both the financial and operational drivers of success.”

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