Pierce names associate director

Pierce, the Blackburn business advisory and accountancy group, has announced it is to promote Ben Smith to the role of associate director.

Ben, who joined Pierce in 2005 and qualified as an accountant in 2008, manages a number of client relationships for the firm alongside its chairman, Graham Boyes.

He has also developed a niche expertise in both research and development, and Patent Box tax planning opportunities.

The adviser, who also runs a successful networking breakfast group, will manage his own client portfolio and take responsibility for a number of existing client relationships that he is already supporting.

Ben will continue to develop his role within the firm, working closely with Graham Boyes who in time will hand over a number of relationships to Ben to continue the firm’s succession.

Graham Boyes said: “Ben is a highly capable, enthusiastic young man and without doubt one of the best that I have worked closely with during my time at Pierce. He has the skills and abilities to become a leading regional business adviser. “We are delighted with his promotion alongside our existing team of associate directors and directors, adding strength to our growing team.”