Azets appoints North West managing partners

Susanna Cassey and Graham Rigby have been jointly appointed as regional managing partners for the North West offices of accountancy and business advisor Azets.

Susanna will be responsible for the firm's offices in Bolton, Holywell, Lancaster, Preston and Rossendale, and Graham for Stockport and Manchester. Both will remain client-facing. 

As a qualified chartered accountant with over 20 years’ experience,

Susanna Cassey is a qualified chartered accountant holding more than 20 years of experience. She works with a varied portfolio of SME clients and entrepreneurs across a range of industries, including many high tech and innovative businesses and those in the not-for-profit and education sectors, managing their audit and accounts compliance delivery as well as special advisory project work.

Graham Rigby has worked alongside a variety of businesses, ranging from family-run SMEs and mid-market businesses through to larger international groups of companies. He manages client relationships with a direct hands-on approach and his experience spans a wide range of sectors including construction, logistics & distribution and legal services firms.

David Travis, the previous regional managing partner will move to a new role as non-executive chairman for the North West.

Susanna Cassey said: “As a result of the pandemic, we’re seeing more businesses looking to us for support in survival, revival and future growth. We’re well placed as local, trusted business advisors, having a presence throughout the North West and a strong multi-disciplinary team of experts in advisory, funding and corporate finance.”

Graham Rigby said: “Our dynamic team in the North West is expanding and I’m thrilled to take a leadership role in growing the practice. We have ambitious plans to build on our existing presence across the North West through a combination of organic growth and compatible acquisitions, which in turn provide great opportunities for our people across all service lines to support the continued success of our clients.

Peter Gallanagh, regional CEO for Azets in Scotland and the North of England said: “Graham and Susanna’s promotions are very well deserved; they are talented and dedicated to bringing the best of Azets to their clients and colleagues. They have both been with the firm for a number of years and their promotions reflect their success to date and the firm’s commitment to promote from within wherever possible.

“I’d also like to thank David Travis for all his leadership role in growing the North West offices. Retaining David’s knowledge and experience in the business is fantastic and I am certain he will continue to contribute hugely to the success of the business.”