Grant Thornton promotes three in South West team
Professional services firm Grant Thornton UK has strengthened its public sector audit team in the South West of England by naming Barrie Morris as a partner. His promotion comes alongside those of Beth Bowers and Grace Hawkins, who have been given promotions to director roles.
Mark Stocks, national partner for public sector audit for Grant Thornton UK, said, “In external audits, building trust is fundamental to ensuring that client needs are met, and that compliance is achieved. I have no doubt that Barrie’s positive attitude will put clients at ease and that he will equip the team to guide clients through what can sometimes be a daunting process, but nonetheless a vital one, to ensure that public money is being spent with the utmost care.”
The UK member firm of Grant Thornton is led by over 200 partners and employs over 5,500 consultants, accountants and tax experts. Based in Bristol, Barrie Morris' promotion to public sector audit partner follows a 25-year career in auditing. His new role positions him to lead Grant Thornton’s 80-strong South West audit team, overseeing the delivery of timely, high quality and efficient external audits for public sector organisations.
Morris commented, “Public sector auditing is a crucial part of ensuring that taxpayer money is being used to its full potential, and I’m pleased to lead the team in upholding the highest standards in compliance. It’s an important job and I find that a bit of enthusiasm goes a long way. With a team of dedicated public sector audit professionals, Grant Thornton will continue to help protect these vital services through efficient, timely and financially rigorous reporting.”
The team have the challenge of delivering tough messages while striving to improve the timeliness of reporting and external audits, often analysing and managing the financial complexities and realities of organisations such as NHS Trusts and local authorities. Supporting Morris in the day-to-day operations of the team will be Beth Bowers and Grace Hawkins, both of whom have been promoted to public sector audit director.
Between them they bring over 50 years’ experience working in public sector auditing to their new roles, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in guiding a range of clients through the auditing process.
Hawkins’ promotion will see her continue to support clients from Cornwall up to Herefordshire and across into Berkshire, providing advice and insights into how an organisations’ arrangements can deliver better value for money. Bowers will meanwhile provide assurance and guidance for stakeholders on how their organisations operate, from her base in Bath.
