The MBO, led by tax partner Mark Kearsley and corporate partner Laura Leslie, reinforces the firm’s alignment with its core client base of owner-managed businesses, who value working with a firm that shares their independent ethos. Existing partners Andrew Moss and Jean Ellis, who retain a stake in the business, will continue to play active roles  and will work closely with the new leadership team going forward.

DSG has enjoyed steady growth over the last few years, with headcount now standing at 110 and the firm reporting a fee income of £7.6m for the year ending April 2024, reflecting a 12% year-on-year increase. This growth is driven by a rising demand for DSG’s services, which include tax advisory, audit and accounts, corporate finance, and payroll services.

Looking ahead, the new leadership team is focused on unlocking further growth by strengthening the management structure, investing in cutting-edge technology, and nurturing the next generation of talent. “Remaining independent is about more than control; it’s about building a business that truly reflects the values and aspirations of our clients. We have ambitious plans for DSG and this is the first step on that journey.” said Mark Kearsley.

As DSG embarks on this new chapter, the firm remains dedicated to serving as a trusted advisor to its clients, delivering tailored solutions that support their success and growth.

Andrew Moss, corporate partner at DSG, commented: “This MBO marks a significant milestone in DSG’s history, and we are proud to remain the largest independent firm in the Liverpool City Region.”

Jean Ellis, also a corporate partner, said: “We are committed to continuing our legacy of delivering outstanding service to our clients while fostering a dynamic environment for our talented team.”

Laura Leslie added: “In an industry where many firms are merging or seeking external investment, DSG’s decision to remain independent speaks volumes about our confidence in the future. This approach allows us to stay true to our clients and continue our growth on our own terms.”

HSBC UK,  Liverpool Team supported on the funding, Matt Murphy of Watts Commercial Finance provided debt advisory, Glenville Walker provided legal advice to the buyside and Lupton Fawcett advised the sellside.

About DSG

DSG is one of the leading independent accountancy and advisory firms in the North West. The firm works with a wide variety of small, medium and larger businesses and private clients, combining strong core skills with expert teams serving the specialist not-for-profit, trust, IHT and professional practice sectors.  

DSG is a member of DFK International, a global association of like-minded accounting firms enabling us to help with clients’ international needs, from overseas property to foreign subsidiaries. Headquartered in Liverpool, the firm has over 100 staff working across two offices in Liverpool City Centre and North Wales.  

Founded in February 2013, Sestini & Co are a one Partner business with 13 employees based over two offices in Paulton, Bristol and Berkley Square, London. Amongst their offering is a particular niche in advising US citizens living in the UK, or an “accidental American” needing to file US tax returns.

Rachel Sestini, Partner of Sestini & Co comments.

“As the sole owner of Sestini & Co, I have taken some time to find a succession plan which will ensure the practice continues to thrive while maintaining the client relationships we have built over the last 11 years.

I wanted the firm we chose to work with to offer services we do not provide but, we also wanted to enhance their service offering with the expertise we have developed and nurtured though our history. ”

Peter O’Connell, CEO for Shaw Gibbs adds

“Sestini have an exceptional track-record, and the US side of tax advisory was something we were keen to expand on. I have no doubt that Rachel and the team will be instrumental in driving our commitment to delivering superior value to our clients.”

The addition of Sestini to the Shaw Gibbs Group will result in a 380 person-strong practice based over twelve offices located in: Oxford, Basingstoke, Bristol, Farnham, Liss, London (x2), Sutton, Teddington, Thame, Northampton and Winchester.

About Shaw Gibbs

Shaw Gibbs is a top 50 accountancy practice who provide expert solutions for entrepreneurial businesses and private individuals in Central and Southern England. Investing in teams of high-quality specialists, and working with the best-in-breed technology to create value for clients which exceeds expectation.

The combined firm will operate under the Crowleys DFK brand. Conor Ward, the current Managing Director of MoyleRoe will join Crowleys DFK as a Partner bringing valuable insights and leadership to the firm. Together with his team from MoyleRoe, Conor will lead a specialised Aviation Advisory Services’ Department, offering a full range of services to clients in the aircraft leasing sector.

This strategic merger represents a significant milestone in the ongoing growth and development of Crowleys DFK.

James O’Connor, Managing Partner of Crowleys DFK commented:

"We are delighted to welcome Conor and his team to Crowleys DFK. By joining forces with MoyleRoe, we are enhancing our ability to offer new sector expertise and extend our services to a wider client base. This merger seamlessly aligns with our existing specialisations and strategic vision. MoyleRoe's forward-thinking and personalised approach, strongly resonate with Crowleys DFK's values. We are very excited about the opportunities and growth prospects that this next phase brings for our firm."

Conor Ward, Managing Director of MoyleRoe, added,

"By merging with Crowleys DFK, we gain access to their extensive team of skilled professionals, cutting-edge technologies, and global network through DFK International. This means we can offer our clients enhanced services and innovative solutions tailored to meet their evolving needs. We are truly excited about the vast opportunities this merger presents for us and our clients alike."

View Crowleys DFK’s Aviation Advisory Services