Tait Walker: every reason to celebrate

May 18 2007 By The Journal

At a time that the Northern Society of Chartered Accountants celebrates its 125th birthday, Tait Walker sees its 70th anniversary as leading regional employer and one of the largest independent accountancy practices.

Robert Tait Walker launched the practice in 1937 on Prudhoe Street, Newcastle, and, after a stint in Sandyford Road, it moved to its present offices at Bulman House, Gosforth.

It went on to open an office in Morpeth in 1984, after acquiring the practice of Gavin RM Holt to service Northumberland clients and, more recently, in Teesside where it is now located in Teesdale Business Park.

Services for private clients involve personal tax planning, including capital taxes and inheritance tax, financial services advice and personal insolvency.

Corporate clients are advised on finance, audit and specialised audit, accounting and forensic accounting, taxation and VAT, company pensions, financial services, IT consultancy and business disposals/acquisitions.

The business environment is fast, complex and competitive so business owners need expert help. The firm's corporate finance team has established itself as the leading independent dealmaker in the region, with over £80m of transactions in 2006. Also, a web-based service was launched.

The Deal Centre service has been developed to help investors or those needing investment or who have businesses to sell.

A forensic accountant and former detective, Frank Nesbitt, was appointed to head up the forensic accounting department.

The firm's team is leading the field with advice on, for instance, fraud and clinical negligence.

Managing partner David Arthur said: "We believe the basis for our success is our emphasis on recruiting and retaining high calibre staff, and investing in their ongoing training and development."