Experienced audit partner joins PKF Francis Clark

Rob Whitehead, left, is welcomed by Paul Bray, partner at PKF Francis Clark in Bristol (Photo: Dave Pratt)

PKF Francis Clark has appointed an experienced audit partner to serve our growing client base of owner-managed businesses in the Bristol and Somerset area.

Rob Whitehead has relocated from Yorkshire, where he gained over 30 years’ experience in audit, accounts, business planning and tax, most recently as a partner in a regional accountancy firm. His clients have included businesses in recruitment, engineering, IT, haulage, property and the motor trade.

Based in our Bristol and Taunton offices, Rob will advise businesses in a wide range of sectors, utilising his previous experience.

He said: “I’ve always enjoyed the people side of my role and I find it rewarding being a trusted adviser on business ideas, not just accounting matters. Clients use me as a first point of contact and facilitator if they are facing challenges or undertaking strategic projects – if I can’t help, I’ll know someone who can.

“PKF Francis Clark’s culture is a great fit with my belief in building long-term relationships with clients and developing a genuine understanding so we can use our expertise to help them succeed.”

Rob is a genuine all-rounder who brings a wealth of experience across many sectors and will be a valuable sounding board for our existing and new clients.

Rob is a Xero certified adviser with expertise in cloud accounting, a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and an affiliate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW). Having moved to the South West to be nearer to his grownup daughters, he is looking forward to getting to know the Bristol and Somerset business community.

Paul Bray, head of PKF Francis Clark’s Bristol office, said: “Rob is a genuine all-rounder who brings a wealth of experience across many sectors and will be a valuable sounding board for our existing and new clients. His proactive approach to advising businesses reflects our ethos of shared ambition, so we’re delighted he has joined our growing team.”

Outside work, Rob’s interests include fishing and rock music. Personal highlights include working with bands including the Foo Fighters as part of the artist liaison team at Leeds Festival.