Experienced auditor joins Bishop Fleming to support Plymouth firms

Leading audit, accountancy, tax and advisory firm, Bishop Fleming has appointed former PwC Director, Stephen Patey, to its Plymouth office, bolstering the firm’s significantly expanding audit practice. 

The strategic appointment highlights the firm’s commitment to growing its service offering in the South West, building on another successful financial year that saw double-digit fee growth to £45.8m. With audit revenues doubling over the last three years, the firm continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering exceptional service and investing in its future.

Stephen brings more than 30 years’ experience to the firm, previously delivering audits to a wide range of clients including large multinationals, owner managed businesses and private equity backed businesses, with a particular focus on manufacturing and retail. At Bishop Fleming, Stephen will leverage this experience, focussing on the local marketplace.

Firmly rooted in Plymouth, Stephen is a founder and trustee of local charity, Promoting Children in Plymouth, which encourages corporates to do more to alleviate poverty and make a difference in a young person’s life. 

Steve Patey with Plymouth Partners of Bishop Fleming

From left to right: Nathan Coughlin (Bishop Flemming Office Lead and Audit Partner), Stephen Patey (Audit Partner), Pippa Clarke (Chair & Tax Partner) & Dan White (Accountancy Partner)

“Steve’s appointment represents our ongoing commitment to growth in the South West and signals the ongoing growth of our audit service line,” said Nathan Coughlin who is Bishop Flemming’s Office in Plymouth. “His significant audit experience strengthens the specialist services we can offer our clients, and his vast knowledge will be a great asset to the wider team. I’m really pleased to welcome Steve to the business.” 

Stephen commented: “I’m delighted to be joining Bishop Fleming during a period of exciting growth. The firm’s client-first approach and focus on quality client relationships matches my own values and makes Bishop Fleming a great fit for my next challenge, rejoining many exceptional ex-colleagues who have also made the move from PwC.

“I am particularly excited to continue my work supporting owner-managed businesses in a firm which has a deep focus on empowering these businesses to thrive in a complex financial landscape. Providing exemplary client service is of the highest importance to me and I will continue to build trusted relationships with my clients and deliver the highest quality audit with no surprises, whilst being a sounding board for clients to help them navigate obstacles and achieve their goals and aspirations.”

About Bishop Fleming

Bishop Fleming is a leading independent provider of audit, accountancy, tax and advisory services in the UK. With total fee income of £45.8m, the firm saw growth of 19.9% per cent over the last 12 months. From owner-managed businesses, SMEs and large businesses; to entrepreneurs and private individuals; Bishop Fleming offers full services across a diverse range of sectors. The group has eight offices spanning from the West Midlands to the South West, with 41 partners and close on 500 staff. For more information visit bishopfleming.co.uk.

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