The move follows Wilkins Kennedy’s merger last October with Maidstone firm Day Smith & Hunter, which created one of the largest accountancy practices in the region.

The new unit will be headed up by David Ellis who joins the firm from a local Tunbridge Wells practice where he developed specialisms in corporate and acquisition finance. He will be accompanied by Reece Wootten who relocates from Wilkins Kennedy’s corporate finance department in London.

Andy Coghlan, head of corporate finance at Wilkins Kennedy, said: ‘Our corporate finance team has a long-standing association with businesses in Kent and has advised on several major deals. However, the creation of a local delivery team is a particularly exciting opportunity as it strengthens our relationship with the county’s business communities.’