Begbies Traynor makes two appointments

Begbies Traynor has announced two new appointments. Andrew Little joins as a Partner, working across the North East and Martyn Shakespear joins as a Director in the Corporate Solutions team in the East Midlands.

Little has  30 years’ experience as an ICAEW chartered accountant and moved into insolvency in 2005. He has spent the last nine years with Azets (formerly Baldwins Accountants), latterly as managing partner of its North East region.

Having become a licensed insolvency practitioner 13 years ago, Little specialises in corporate rescue and recovery, assisting company directors who are experiencing cash flow and financial problems in their businesses. He has experience of working with small business across most sectors including construction, leisure, hospitality and retail.

Shakespear has a 39-year track record providing banking and funding advice. Over the years, Shakespear has held senior positions with a number of banks including NatWest Bank, Bank of Ireland and the Co-operative Bank. More recently, he spent seven years as national head of banking and finance for Azets (formerly Baldwins Accountants), based at its Nottingham office, advising its clients across the UK about funding options.

Commenting on Andrew Little’s appointment Julian Pitts, Regional Managing Partner for Begbies Traynor in the North East and Yorkshire, said “Having lived and worked in the North East his entire life, Andrew is well-known and respected in the region’s business community. His arrival strengthens our offering in the market place and will help to get the Begbies Traynor name in front of businesses, individuals and professional advisers at such a challenging time when many will be looking for trusted advice.”

“We believe that there is pent-up demand for our services which will come to the fore as business distress starts to bite in the coming months, and we have in place a really experienced, well-qualified team, ready to help.”

Commenting on Martyn Shakespear’s appointment Karl Hodson, Partner for BTG Advisory, said “With almost 40 years’ experience, Martyn brings huge insight having worked both for banks and also within a national accountancy firm, advising businesses large and small across the whole banking/funding marketplace.”

:Not only will his banking expertise add further insight to the Corporate Solutions team, but having spent his entire career based in the East Midlands, he is extremely well-known in the region and is trusted by an extensive network of contacts.”