Cowgills expands tax team with senior hires

Business and advisory firm, Cowgills has expanded its tax team with the appointment of director Michelle Willson to continue to grow its Inheritance tax (IHT) planning and trust advisory services. 

Michelle, who joins as private client director previously worked with EY and brings over 18 years’ experience to the firm. The team have also been strengthened with the addition of Sophie Mellor who joins as a manager.

These senior strategic hires further expand Cowgills full service offering for SME businesses and individuals across Lancashire, providing expert advice and guidance on IHT planning and the use of trusts to protect wealth and mitigate tax liabilities.

Cowgills head of tax Lisa Wilson said: “I am thrilled that Michelle has joined the team, her experience and knowledge in the use of trusts is a fantastic addition to help guide our clients in considering their future family wealth strategy.  

“We are actively expanding the team to ensure we continue to offer our owner-managed business and individual clients a holistic advisory service wherever they are in their financial lifecycle.”

Commenting on her appointment Michelle Willson said: “Our clients have a much clearer understanding of the importance of future planning around issues such as inheritance tax.

“It is best to start those conversations off early, implementing specific tailored plans to safeguard assets as much as possible for the next generation, whilst mitigating potential future tax liabilities. Significant key life events such as a business sale, marriage, divorce and inheritance are the usual drivers for IHT planning but exposure can happen at other times and we offer all of our clients a full review.”

“Cowgills act as a trusted partner through the entire lifespan of a client, often supporting people through what can be very challenging times.  It’s fantastic to join such a progressive firm and be able to work so closely with clients adding real value to their family situation.” 

Lisa Wilson added: “As a firm we’ve always supported clients with IHT planning, however the recruitment of Michelle and Sophie and their expertise in trust planning, adds real weight to our offering providing clients with an added value service.

“Trust’s offer solutions not just for the super-rich but for the hard-working business person who wants to ensure their assets are protected in a safe and flexible vehicle and we hope we’re able to assist clients in understanding and achieving this.”