Professional services group 聽has appointed Chris Vaulks as a partner in its growing audit practice specialising in the technology, construction and manufacturing industries.
Vaulks, who was previously an audit engagement lead at KPMG, has over 18 years鈥� audit experience, and progressed to a senior director within KPMG鈥檚 north audit practice working across Newcastle, Leeds and Manchester.聽
He led on several large audits including FTSE AIM 50 businesses and large private companies, principally those within technology, construction and manufacturing.
Based in S&W鈥檚 Newcastle office, Vaulks will seek to grow and strengthen S&W鈥檚 audit practice across the North East region.
鈥淚鈥檓 delighted to join S&W at such an exciting time following the recent investment from Apax Partners,鈥� he said.聽
鈥淎s the fastest-growing UK top ten accountancy firm, there is a real sense of drive and ambition alongside a clear commitment to Newcastle and the North. I鈥檓 looking forward to bringing my skills and experience to support and grow our audit practice in a region I am passionate about.鈥�
聽is one of the fastest-growing UK accountancy firms and builds on the heritage of Smith & Williamson which was founded in 1881. It was launched as a new business on 31st March 2025, following the sale of Evelyn Partners鈥� professional services business to Apax Partners.
S&W is a headline sponsor of 老九品茶Cloud鈥檚聽FUEL Manchester 2025聽event on 9th October 鈥撀�register to attend here聽鈥� and will also support our聽FinTech 50聽ranking later this year.
It recently also appointed Vicki Weston from KPMG. She was part of the leadership team involved in growing and developing the FinTech and cryptocurrency practice.
Donna Bulmer, regional managing partner at S&W, said: 鈥淲e are delighted to welcome Chris Vaulks to S&W. He brings a wealth of audit experience, along with a proven track record of driving growth.聽
鈥淐hris鈥� insights and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to execute our regional growth strategy and strengthen our position in the market. We look forward to working closely with Chris as we guide the business through its next chapter of success.鈥�
Appeal to raise 拢40k after Liverpool founder suffers serious fall
Mark Bishop, head of audit and assurance at S&W, added: 鈥淲e鈥檙e thrilled to welcome Chris to S&W. His deep sector expertise, particularly across technology, construction and manufacturing, combined with his leadership experience, will be instrumental as we continue to grow our audit practice.
“Chris鈥檚 appointment reflects our commitment to investing in top talent and strengthening our presence across the north. I鈥檓 confident he will make a significant impact for our clients and our people.鈥�