Warren Baker, from Wilson Wright, London, UK, has been appointed as the Deputy President of DFK International. In this role, Warren will serve a two-year term, after which he will assume the position of President of DFK for three years, succeeding the current President, Stephen Bushell.

The Executive Board selected Warren for his outstanding ability to connect with members, his extensive professional experience, and his dedication to the values and core ambitions of DFK International.

Commenting on his new role, Warren said: "I am both deeply honoured and excited to be taking up this post. I feel extremely proud to be part of the DFK community and my firm has hugely benefited from being an active member over the years.

“Going forward I look forward to supporting our President, Stephen Bushell to make sure we continue to grow DFK and engage with our members and their teams across the association in a useful and meaningful way.”

Stephen Bushell has been President of DFK since July 2023.

“I am very pleased with the appointment of Warren Baker as the DFK International Deputy President,” said Stephen.

“Warren will make a strong contribution to the association and continue to build on the good work being done by the DFK International Board. DFK is in excellent shape, we have a strong strategic plan to help grow the association and continue to provide a high level of service and value to our global members. Warren will assist in driving this into the future.”

Ben Miller, from Bennett Thrasher, Atlanta, USA, has been appointed as the new Vice President of the Americas, taking over from Nigel Jacobs.

He commented: “I’m thrilled to serve on the DFK International Executive Board where I will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with leaders from around the world to ensure that DFK International continues to be an association of choice worldwide.

“I am grateful to Nigel Jacobs who has done an outstanding job in this role over the past three years to set our region up for unprecedented success.”

Executive Director of DFK International, Bill Wright, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Warren and Ben. Each of them has been contributing significantly to our global members for many years, and their insights at the Board level will be invaluable as we continue to welcome new, high-quality firms that meet the DFK standard of excellence.”

DFK International extends its heartfelt thanks on behalf of all its members, to Nigel Jacobs, for his dedicated service and significant contributions to the association over the past three years. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening DFK’s presence in the Americas and helping to achieve our collective objectives in the region.

“As I reflect on completing my three-year term as Vice-President of the Americas and member of the DFK International Executive Board, I am pleased with the progress and achievements over my term,” said Nigel.

“There was an increase in member engagement, recruitment, additional programs and a return to in-person conferences. Internationally, we have considerably improved our governance model and enhanced our strategic plan.

“I am leaving the Americas region in the very capable hands of Ben Miller. Ben is passionate about DFK, well qualified for the role and will do an excellent job representing the region during his term.”

Warren and Ben's appointments officially commenced during the organisation's 2024 combined Global and Asia Pacific Annual Conference in Sydney, Australia earlier this month. The event brought together leaders and professionals from DFK member firms worldwide to exchange best practices, discuss and solve shared challenges, and connect with global counterparts.

About DFK International

DFK International is a global alliance of accounting firms and their expert teams, working closely together across 465 cities in 90 countries. Each of their member firms, independently owned and managed, meets the DFK standard of excellence.

DFK is among the most trusted and tightly woven organisations for accounting firms worldwide. Members share an extensive and diverse base of international expertise, equipping them to deliver client-focused solutions across multiple jurisdictions.

An embedded culture of cohesion and trust also serves as the foundation for their managing partners' exclusive executive forums, professional special interest groups, and industry-leading development programmes for our firms’ emerging leaders.

This is DFK. United Globally.

Guests sampled the delights of the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, including access to the special exhibition ‘Titanic Honour and Glory’ which brings to life the history of the legendary ocean liner.

DNG Dove Naish has been a pillar of the Northamptonshire business community for decades, with a history of supporting local businesses since the 1960s. The firm's evolution has been marked by growth and change, reflecting its adaptability and commitment to excellence.

The merger with Shaw Gibbs in November has already yielded significant benefits, offering clients the resources and expertise of a larger firm while maintaining the personalised service they have come to expect.

"This rebranding is more than a name change; it represents the transformation of our organisation,"

said Robyn Liddell, Partner of the Northampton office.

"Our team's hard work and dedication have ensured a seamless transition for our clients, who have responded positively to the changes."

Shaw Gibbs pledges to continue investing in the local economy by providing traineeships for aspiring accountants and tax advisers and creating opportunities for experienced professionals. The firm's commitment to supporting local charities and initiatives remains steadfast.

The new identity signifies a partnership that looks to the future with anticipation. Shaw Gibbs are dedicated to providing exceptional services, fostering innovation, and adapting to the ever-changing business landscape.

The rebranding event was a day of joy, reflection, and looking forward. It celebrated the past achievements of DNG Dove Naish, reflected on the values that have shaped the firm, and anticipated a future filled with opportunity, growth, and success.

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 their teams of high-quality specialists, they work with the best-in-breed technology to create value for clients which exceeds expectation.

Clare, a highly respected Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser, brings a wealth of experience to the firm, enhancing Rowleys' capabilities to serve clients across the East Midlands.

Clare Clifford joins Rowleys from Azets, a top 10 national accountancy firm where she was a Partner and Head of Tax for the Midlands. With a career that began in accountancy and evolved to specialise in tax, Clare's expertise spans a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, farming, and healthcare. She has a proven track record of working with owner-managed businesses, family companies, individuals, and large international organisations, advising on both personal and corporate tax matters.

"I am excited to join Rowleys, a firm that truly values building strong, personal relationships with its clients," comments Clare.

"I look forward to working with the team to provide tailored tax solutions that help our clients achieve their financial goals. It’s great being back in the East Midlands, where I live and have long-standing professional relationships."

Clare is particularly passionate about working with owner-managed businesses and developing lasting relationships with families to help them achieve tax efficiency.

Tom Copson, Managing Partner at Rowleys, comments: "We are delighted to welcome Clare to our team. Her extensive experience and client-focused approach are invaluable assets as we continue to grow and enhance the services we offer. Clare’s approach aligns perfectly with Rowleys' commitment to providing a personable and bespoke service to its clients. "

Rowleys also recently announced its membership with DFK International, a global association of independent audit, accounting, and tax professionals. This affiliation strengthens Rowleys' ability to support clients with international operations, broadening their reach and capabilities.

For more information about Rowleys and their services, please visit Rowleys' website.

About Rowleys:

Rowleys is an independent firm of Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors based in Leicester, with 7 partners and 62 members of staff. Rowleys provides audit, accounting, advisory and tax services and has specialist sector teams in medical, pensions, charities and not for profit and SMEs and family businesses.