‘Accountancy Team of the Year’ winner at the STEP Private Client Awards 2008/9

Smith & Williamson, the leading independent investment management, financial advisory and accounting groups in the UK, has claimed the prestigious ‘Accountancy Team of the Year' title at the annual STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) Private Client Awards. Joss Dalrymple and Chris Shepard accepted the award on behalf of Smith & Williamson.

Joss said: "We are delighted to have received this accolade. To win against such strong and respected competition is indeed an honour. It represents Smith & Williamson's unwavering commitment to our clients and confirms our great reputation for private client work. "

The judges commented: "The winners focused on private client service, excellent technical standards - especially tax planning - and the ability to take decisive action when required. They also found the strongest commitment to staff training, exam support, flexible working and corporate social responsibility."

Smith & Williamson is no stranger to recognition from independent judging panels. The firm has won several recent awards for private client excellence, including Best High Net Worth Tax Team (LexisNexis Taxation Awards).

Smith & Williamson was named Large Firm of the Year at the 2007 Accountancy Age Awards. The firm also won AIM Advisory Team of the Year at a ceremony run by South West Insider Dealmaker, while the Financial Services and Markets Group scooped the Best Compliance Consultancy Services Award at the Compliance Register ‘OStCaRs'. The award recognised the quality of the firm's advice to investment businesses.

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Disclaimer

By necessity, this briefing can only provide a short overview and it is essential to seek professional advice before applying the contents of this article. No responsibility can be taken for any loss arising from action taken or refrained from on the basis of this publication. Details correct at time of writing.

Note to editors

Smith & Williamson is an independent professional and financial services group employing around 1,500 people. The group is a leading provider of investment management, financial advisory and accountancy services to private clients, professional practices and mid-sized corporates. The group operates from offices in London, Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, Glasgow, Guildford, Maidstone, Salisbury, Southampton and Worcester.

Smith & Williamson Limited Regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales for a range of investment business activities. A member of Nexia International, a worldwide network of independent accounting firms.

Nexia Smith & Williamson Audit Limited Registered to carry on audit work and regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales for a range of investment business activities. A member of Nexia International.