Leading independent accountancy, business and tax advisory firm Clive Owen LLP is continuing its ambitious growth trajectory, strengthening its presence across the North East and Yorkshire through investment in people, expanded service offerings and a growing regional footprint.
The firm, which is headquartered in Darlington, but also has offices in York, Durham, Middlesbrough and, most recently, Newcastle, has enjoyed continued success in recent years.
Impressively, Clive Owen LLP has achieved significant growth on Tyneside, despite launching its first Newcastle office less than two years ago.
Since opening with a single member of staff, the office has grown rapidly to a team of 13 with additional roles being created to support continued expansion, and has recently relocated its Newcastle team to Gainsborough House, on Grey Street, reflecting increasing demand for the firm’s services across the region and its long-term commitment to the city.
Stephen Harris, Tax Partner and Newcastle Office Lead, said: “Our growth in Newcastle has exceeded expectations since launching in 2024. What started with a skeleton team has quickly developed into a strong and ambitious office serving clients across the region.
“The move to Grey Street is a significant milestone for the firm and a clear statement of intent. Newcastle is an important business hub, and we are committed to continuing to invest in the city, our people, and the services we provide.”
This latest investment forms part of Clive Owen LLP’s wider strategic growth plans across the North of England, including plans to further enhance its presence in Darlington, amid further, recent successes throughout the firm.
In February, Clive Owen LLP was recognised as Mid-Tier Firm of the Year, with York office Partner, Phillipa Symington, named Partner of the Year at the prestigious 2026 Yorkshire Accountancy Awards.
These latest award wins marked a firm-wide year of growth and innovation, driven by strategic appointments, internal promotions and continued investment in an enhanced suite of specialist services.
Alongside geographic expansion, the firm has broadened its specialist expertise through the introduction of new, dedicated service lines. The launch of dedicated Consulting and VAT service lines marks an important milestone in the firm’s evolution, enabling clients to access specialist expertise across a wider range of strategic, operational and compliance matters.
Associate Partner, Brad Haywood leads the firm’s expanding consultancy service line, which includes finance system and ERP migration, outsourced FD and strategic board-level support. It is designed to work seamlessly alongside the firm’s existing audit, tax and advisory teams, ensuring clients receive joined-up, consistent support as their businesses evolve.
He said: “There has been a real shift in how businesses access expertise, particularly in the mid-market. Rather than recruiting internally, many organisations now want experienced support that can deliver change efficiently and leave them stronger for the future. That’s exactly where our consulting offering sits.”
Further strengthening its offering to clients, the firm has recently welcomed experienced VAT specialist Hydeam Sulton as VAT Partner, who leads Clive Owen LLP’s VAT and Indirect Tax provision, supporting clients in managing and optimising their VAT position while growing the firm’s specialist VAT services.
Hydeam said: “VAT is a notoriously complex area of tax, and I believe there is significant value I can bring to new and existing clients across a range of sectors. My aim is to build a strong, specialist team around me over time to support this growth.”
These latest developments reflect Clive Owen LLP’s long-term commitment to supporting businesses across the region with practical, partner-led advice that helps organisations grow, adapt and succeed.
“We have seen significant growth across the entire business over recent years, as demand for our services continues to increase,” says Kevin Shotton, Joint Managing Partner.
“The North East and Yorkshire has a vibrant and resilient business community, and we are proud to be supporting organisations of all sizes through every stage of their journey. Our growth is a direct result of the trust our clients place in us, combined with the dedication and expertise of our people.”
“We are committed to investing in the communities we serve and ensuring clients have access to high-quality advice delivered by local specialists. As business owners ourselves, we understand the challenges and opportunities facing privately owned businesses in our regions.
“Our clients are operating in an environment where specialist advice has never been more important,” continues Simon Hook, Joint Managing Partner.
“The addition of Consulting and VAT services allows us to offer deeper expertise in areas where businesses increasingly need support. Whether organisations are pursuing growth opportunities, navigating regulatory change or seeking greater operational efficiency, we can provide the insight and guidance required to help them achieve their objectives.”
“One of our greatest strengths is our ability to bring together specialists from across the business to provide joined-up advice. Clients benefit from access to a broad range of expertise under one roof, delivered by people who take the time to understand their goals and challenges.”
With a growing presence across the North and an enhanced portfolio of specialist services, the future is looking promising for Clive Owen LLP as it continues along its strategic growth journey.
www.cliveowen.com