South West firm Thomas Westcott Chartered Accountants has appointed Becky Hayes as a partner and has 20 years’ experience in VAT and other indirect taxes. Hayes will develop the firm’s specialist tax advice. She joins from PKF Francis Clark, where she advised clients across the UK and internationally on VAT and stamp duty land tax (SDLT) for 10 years. She also regularly delivers VAT and SDLT training for the professional sector. Based in Exeter, Hayes will work with colleagues across Thomas Westcott’s network of offices, providing clients with specialist VAT advice, heading up a dedicated VAT team to support clients in the South West and beyond.

Accountants, business and financial advisers Kreston Reeves has announced the promotion of two new partners. Simon Levine is promoted to partner in the legal services and private client team, and Robert Beasley is promoted to partner in the accounts and outsourcing team. Levine joined Kreston Reeves in November 2020 and has a strong track record in advising wealthy individuals and their families on all aspects of Wills and probate, inheritance tax planning, trusts and powers of attorney. He has over 30 years’ experience as a solicitor and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). Beasley is one of the firm’s home-grown talents, joining the firm from college. He advises owner-managed businesses on all aspects of their accounts and finance.