South: Baker Tilly in the UK to join RSM International network

RSM International, the worldwide audit, tax and advisory network of independent firms, has enhanced its international representation by admitting Baker Tilly as its UK member firm. This admission reinforces RSM’s position as the seventh-largest global accounting network.

Baker Tilly UK, which has offices in Southampton, will formally join RSM International later this year on completion of a notice period with the Baker Tilly International network. During this transition period, the firm will continue to trade as Baker Tilly, but will disclose prominently that it is an independent member of RSM International, after which the firm will then formally adopt the global network name and corporate identity.

Baker Tilly acquired RSM International’s previous UK member firm, RSM Tenon, in August last year, creating a firm of around 3,500 partners and staff and a fee income of over £300 million. As the seventh-largest accountancy firm in the UK, Baker Tilly has over 40 offices across the UK and is one of the foremost providers of professional services to entrepreneurial and growing businesses.

The acquisition of RSM Tenon gave Baker Tilly the opportunity to consider its international network membership options and, after a period of detailed consideration, the firm felt RSM was better aligned with Baker Tilly’s client needs and international growth aspirations.

Jean Stephens, CEO of RSM International, commented: “Baker Tilly is a large, well-respected, quality national UK firm with a diverse client base. There is a natural alignment with RSM with respect to core values, focus on quality and aspirations for growth and development. In reaching this decision, we have engaged in an in-depth mutual due diligence process. The Baker Tilly team has met with RSM members in Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, Africa and the US and it is clear there is a strong cultural fit and alignment in vision and purpose. I am delighted Baker Tilly will be joining the RSM network as our UK member firm. Their admission will be of significant benefit to clients of RSM member firms across the globe.”

Laurence Longe, Baker Tilly’s managing partner, said: “Membership in the dynamic global network of RSM will bring huge benefits to Baker Tilly and we believe it to be in the best interests of our clients, partners and staff. We are proud of the quality of our service delivery and our excellent client list and have full confidence that RSM member firms will help us deliver the services our expanding international client base requires. Our firm’s strategic vision fits perfectly with that of RSM and we are very pleased to be joining such a vibrant, forward-thinking network.”