IAN Royle is to lead the Teesside office of Begbies Traynor as it builds its North East presence.

Royle, a senior insolvency manager, has been with the rescue and recovery specialist since 2006.

He was promoted to insolvency manager in 2009 at the firm’s Leeds office and later became senior insolvency manager.

His new role is at Begbies Traynor’s office in Thornaby, Stockton, which opened two years ago. The firm also has an office in Newcastle. Andy Haslam, Begbies Traynor partner based in the North East, said: “Since opening our Teesside office in 2010, there has been continuing demand for our services from companies throughout the area which are facing tough economic conditions.

“With his strong track record of advising businesses in distress, we believe Ian will be key to building our profile in Teesside and ensuring that companies are aware that there are experienced professionals locally to whom they can turn for help.”

Royle said: “I look forward to further building Begbies Traynor’s presence in Teesside, offering the services of a national firm, but with a local touch.”

He will primarily be supported by the firm’s directors of insolvency Simon Lundy and Gillian Sayburn together with director of banking advisory services, Mark Whitaker, corporate finance partner Chris Appleby and commercial finance consultant Ian Pratt.