In line with the commitment to strengthening the firm for the future, Randall & Payne LLP is delighted to welcome Nikki Cairns, Shaun Pegler and James Geary to the Partnership with effect from 1st July 2023, bringing forward the next generation of leaders.
The trio have been part of the firm’s fabric for an impressive 48 years combined, with both Nikki and Shaun having joined from school and James almost ten years ago. This announcement is testament that loyalty and commitment pay off – all three are incredibly dedicated to both their clients and the firm.
Tim Watkins, who has been Managing Partner since 2015, commented: “I am delighted that Nikki, Shaun and James are joining Will, Ollie, Rob, Ryan and myself as partners. It has been great to watch each develop over the years from trainees in the case of Nikki and Shaun, to joining us from another firm in James’ case and fitting in so well from the outset. All became members of the Senior Leadership Team a few years ago and have continued to demonstrate their commitment to the firm and are great people to work with.”
Nikki jointly heads up the accounts department, although has worked within all disciplines and therefore has an all-round grasp of general practice. She deals with a diverse client portfolio, and although they include a mix of industries, her focus is agriculture.
Nikki joined after leaving school 20 years ago and over that time she has seen and supported the growth of the firm. Nikki also supports her family’s business of 30 years which provides her with valuable insights into problems faced by business owners and helps her to work with clients by having that first-hand experience.
Commenting on her appointment, Nikki said: “Randall & Payne has supported me throughout my career to enable me to achieve this step. Now is my opportunity to give back to both clients and team in my role as custodian of the firm and nurture its growth in readiness for the next generation.”
Shaun joined in 2004 as an AAT apprentice and today he co-manages the largest team within the firm, always making time for his team and clients. He’s skilled in streamlining his client’s businesses and saving them money as well as valuable time, while providing excellent customer service.
Shaun has a large and varied client base and loves the opportunity to meet potential new clients and discussing what Randall & Payne has to offer their businesses. This is one of Shaun’s strengths – after a quick conversation, Shaun can put anyone at ease and offer quality advice instantly. His knowledge and experience in all areas of accountancy allows him to confidently support our clients.
Commenting on his appointment, Shaun said: “Being asked to join the Partnership is an absolute honour. To see the Partners put their trust in me and invite me to help run such a fantastic forward-thinking firm of accountants fills me with pride. The Senior team work hard to develop those around them and this is something I feel is important. I will do this with my team and continue to share my enthusiasm. I’m excited to enter this next chapter of my life with such an experienced group of people around me and so many hard working, devoted team members all looking to push the business forward.”
Last but by no means least, James heads up the Corporate Tax team and has worked in tax since 1998, previously for a Top 10 and Top 40 firm, before joining Randall & Payne in 2014. He has grown the size and capabilities of the Corporate Tax team to one which rivals many larger practices.
James specialises in corporate structures, investment incentives, share option schemes and Capital Allowances, as well as a very strong knowledge and experience in R&D Tax Reliefs and Patent Box. R&D is a key focus, and he is a pivotal member of various volunteer groups within the Chartered Institute of Taxation that liaise regularly with HMRC and the Treasury to help shape reform and feed back on HMRC service levels.
Commenting on his appointment, James said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to join the Partnership of such a historic yet forward thinking practice and am very grateful to the existing Partners for their faith and support that has enabled me to reach this milestone. I look forward to continuing to grow the firm’s Corporate Tax team and capabilities as the digital revolution continues.”
Randall & Payne, based on the Shurdington Road in Cheltenham, has been trading in Gloucestershire for 144 years, offering a range of services, including tax, business advisory, accountancy, auditing, corporate finance, Management Services including bookkeeping and payroll. The accountancy firm has built a strong reputation for supporting a wide range of Gloucestershire-based businesses.