Bishop Fleming appoints advisory partner

Audit, accountancy, tax and advisory firm Bishop Fleming has appointed Tom Ayerst as advisory partner in its Bristol office as it expands its transaction services offering.

Tom brings more than 30 years’ experience with PwC and will lead Bishop Fleming’s transaction services team, with responsibility for growing its financial due diligence capabilities.

He spent the first 15 years of his career in London before moving to Bristol, where he went on to lead PwC’s regional transaction services and deals business.

His experience includes advising privately owned and mid-market businesses, corporates and private equity investors, as well as serving as PwC’s office senior partner for the West region.

In his new role, Tom will focus on expanding Bishop Fleming’s support for businesses, advisers and lower and mid-market private equity investors across the region.

Tom said: “Investor activity in the mid and lower mid-market in the South West is growing, and businesses and investors want experienced advisors who can provide valuable insights throughout a transaction. 

“I’m looking forward to building a strong team of regionally based due diligence specialists who will work closely with businesses and investors across the region. 

“This is an exciting stage of my career and the role, the firm’s ambition as well as its culture clearly align with my experience and values. 

“Bishop Fleming has a strong people-based culture and commitment to delivering high-quality consultancy to its clients.” 

Tom’s arrival follows recent appointments in Birmingham and makes him Bishop Fleming’s 60th partner.

The firm is continuing to invest in its advisory capabilities and expects to make further partner appointments before the end of the year as it expands its expertise across the business.

Charles Davey, partner and head of advisory at Bishop Fleming, added: “Tom brings an exceptional depth of experience in financial due diligence and a strong understanding of the regional market, making him a significant addition to our growing advisory team.  

“His appointment reflects our ambition to continue investing in our capabilities and people as we respond to increasing demand from businesses and investors across the lower mid-market. 

“Tom’s experience, relationships and commitment to the region will be invaluable as we grow our due diligence offering and support more clients through transactions.” 

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