Accountancy firm expands with Southampton office

An accountancy firm is expanding its presence across the Solent region with a new Southampton office.

Carpenter Box, part of the Sumer Group, has opened the office at Cumberland Place and has appointed Kate Cooper as business services partner.

The move forms part of the firm’s continued investment across Hampshire and follows its recent expansion into larger premises in Portsmouth.

Carpenter Box says growing demand for its tax, audit and advisory services is helping drive the expansion, particularly among businesses with overseas operations and cross-border requirements.

The Southampton base will support SMEs across sectors including marine, defence and logistics, taking advantage of the city’s position as a major port and internationally connected business hub.

Kate brings more than 20 years of experience and will work alongside Peter Reading, audit partner and head of the Solent offices, to develop the firm’s presence across Southampton and the wider region.

A chartered accountant since 2004, Kate previously worked for a top ten accountancy firm and most recently held a client director role at an independent Southampton practice.

She specialises in digital accounting solutions, helping businesses streamline financial processes, adopt new technology and make use of outsourced services.

Kate said: “From the first time I met Peter Reading and managing partner Alan Edwards, I was impressed by Carpenter Box’s people-first culture, client-focused ethos and commitment to building trusted, long-term relationships. 

“The firm combines a proud heritage with a forward-looking approach to advice, particularly for the SMEs and entrepreneurs at the heart of the economy. 

“I’m excited to contribute to its continued growth, support clients in achieving their ambitions and play a part in its future journey.”

Carpenter Box now has 30 partners and nearly 300 colleagues across eight offices, providing tax, audit and advisory services to businesses across the South East.

Peter Reading, partner and head of Solent offices at Carpenter Box, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Kate to Carpenter Box; her extensive experience is already proving invaluable. 

“She will play an important role in our continued development across the region. 

“Our new Southampton office gives us greater capacity to support local SMEs, expand our business advisory offering and provide enhanced personal tax services to private clients. 

“It also creates opportunities to recruit and invest in local talent as we continue to build our presence across the Solent.”

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