Alex Peal and Sue Staunton have been elected as joint managing partners with effect from 1 May 2020, replacing Robert Holland who is stepping down after six years.

This marks a significant shift from the traditional approach to running an accountancy firm, using a hybrid management model to grow the partnership.

James Cowper Kreston is ranked 43rd in the Accountancy Daily Top 75 Firms Survey with fee income of £18m [2018: £16.5m] and for year end April 2019 reported 9% revenue growth. It also increased its partner numbers from 17 to 22 over the last financial year, and has 180 staff and six UK offices.

Peal joined the firm as a trainee in 1998 and made partner in 2008. He has led the audit service line for six years and has been a member of the firm’s management committee since 2010.

‘This is a really exciting time for our firm and as we continue to grow we have to ensure that the managing partner is at the forefront of the running of the firm,’ says Peal. ‘The role of the managing partner is not just operational but one that also needs the time and effort to actively seek opportunities to innovate and adapt.

‘By sharing the responsibility we can devote the significant time required to seek out and maximise opportunities for our firm, develop and grow our staff and maintain the highest level of support for our clients.’

Staunton joined the firm as a partner from mid-tier firm Grant Thornton in 2004 and leads the specialist team servicing technology cients. She joined the management committee in 2014 and has been instrumental in developing the strategic direction of the business.

‘We continue to live and work in a fast paced and ever changing world. We need to ensure that we are not just responsive to our clients’ needs but continue to be proactive as a business in embracing new opportunities, technologies and service offerings that will help our clients succeed,’ she said. ‘Alex and I share a common vision and have different, but complementary, skills that when combined will ensure that we are able to take our firm, staff and clients to the next level.’

Holland was appointed managing partner in 2014 and will remain as a full-time partner, with a particular focus on specialist forensic services.

‘Alex and Sue have been actively involved in the operational and strategic management of our firm for many years and I am confident that between them they will bring fresh ideas and drive,’ said Holland.