Walsall-based Baldwins expanding business and finance arm

Since Baldwins Accountants launched its banking and finance department in the Midlands in 2013 it has helped hundreds of businesses to develop and grow, with the department’s revenue up 50 per cent year-on-year.

Due to the department’s success in the Midlands, the service is now being launched in the North East following Baldwin's expansion into the region last year with acquisitions of Rowlands Accountants and Evolution.

Baldwins’ banking and finance department provides advice on funding structures and pricing, writing business plans, reviewing bank documentation, sourcing grants and a variety of other banking and finance related matters.

The last 12 months has seen the Baldwins Accountancy Group grow from 16 to 34 offices across the country as part of its national strategic expansion plan, employing more than 800 staff with an annual turnover in excess £50 million.

Two new banking and finance directors have been appointed to cater for the demand for its services and to develop the department in new areas of the UK.

Phil Empson has joined Baldwins after more than 25 years with Yorkshire Bank and will be overseeing the Banking and Finance department in the North East.

Mark Huddlestone, who has 30 years of experience in banking and asset finance, has also been appointed in the Midlands and will work with associate directors Graham Collins and Chris Briggs.

The banking and finance department was originally set up by Martyn Shakespear, who has been promoted to head of banking and finance at Baldwins Accountants.

He said: “This service is unique across the accountancy industry not least because we have highly experienced former bank managers with inside industry knowledge.

“So, if a client has a funding requirement, they’re unsure where to borrow their money from, or want to compare the costs of their borrowings, we are on hand to help.

“Between us as a team of seven we now have more than 150 years of banking experience which not only stands us in good stead for the service we provide, but for the number of referrals we are receiving from the banks for future business.”