Azets has promoted Claire Needham to regional managing director for Yorkshire and the North East, placing her in charge of more than 500 employees across six offices.
Needham, who currently serves as managing partner at the firm’s York office and heads its UK technical accounting team, will assume her new responsibilities on 1 July. She succeeds Russell Turner, who retires at the end of July following a 25-year career with Azets and its predecessor firms.
With offices in Bradford, Leeds, York, Durham, Newcastle, and Wynyard, the region represents a substantial footprint for the top 10 UK accountancy and advisory firm.
Needham brings over two decades of experience to the role, including 19 years with a Big Four firm where she served as a director before joining Garbutt + Elliott as partner and later Azets in 2021.
Commenting on her appointment, Needham said: “I am thrilled to become Yorkshire and North East regional managing director. It is an incredible opportunity to contribute to both the success of the region and the wider Azets UK business.
“I will work hard to continue to build on Russell’s legacy and I look forward to working with Azets’ other regional managing directors as well as service line heads to support the many brilliant businesses we have in the region.”
Peter Gallanagh, CEO of Azets UK, said: “Claire has a wealth of experience, demonstrates strong leadership skills and, of course, knows Yorkshire and the North East region very well. She will bring great energy, a new perspective and the utmost commitment in the service of our many valued clients in the region.
“Russell has led with commitment, vision and a genuine passion for our people and business. We are incredibly grateful for his contribution over the years and wish him all the very best for the future.”