Azets UK appoints Yorkshire regional managing director
Azets, the UK top 10 accountancy and advisory firm, has appointed Claire Needham as its new regional managing director for Yorkshire and the North East.
Claire is promoted into the role from her position as Azets’ York office managing partner and head of the UK technical accounting team.
She will succeed Russell Turner, who is retiring from the business at the end of July after a successful 25 years working for Azets and its predecessor companies.
Claire takes up her new role on July 1 leading more than 500 employees in six offices in Yorkshire and the North East.
Claire is a highly-experienced professional with a 23-year career, including 19 years at a ‘big four’ firm where she was a director.
NEW APPOINTMENT: Claire Needham is set to succeed Russell Turner as regional managing director of Azets’ North East and Yorkshire region on July 1
Peter Gallanagh, Azets UK chief executive officer, said: “Congratulations go to Claire on her appointment.
“She has a wealth of experience, demonstrates strong leadership skills and, of course, knows Yorkshire and the North East region very well.
“Claire 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.”
NEW APPOINTMENT: Claire Needham, currently York office managing partner, is set to succeed Russell Turner as regional managing director of Azets’ North East and Yorkshire region on July 1
Claire 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.”
Claire began her career at a big four firm before joining Garbutt + Elliott as a partner and then Azets in January 2021.
Azets’ offices in Yorkshire and the North East are in Bradford, Leeds, York, Durham, Newcastle and Wynard.