UK
Ireland
Chris is an Audit Partner based in our Newcastle office, working with businesses in Newcastle and across the wider North region including Leeds and Manchester.
As an experienced audit leader, Chris specialises in providing audit and assurance services to a wide range of businesses including medium and large private companies and AIM quoted organisations. He is focused on delivering high quality, robust audits while providing strategic insights through his breadth of experience.
Experience
Chris has extensive experience having worked in the audit profession for almost 20 years. Prior to joining S&W in 2025, Chris was at a Big 4 firm for 18 years from graduate trainee through to being a senior audit director in the North.
He has experience as the audit engagement leader on FTSE AIM 50 businesses, large and complex groups, and growing medium and large private businesses. While Chris has broad cross-sector experience, he has sector specific expertise in the areas of Technology, Construction and Manufacturing.
Chris has technical expertise in audit and accounts, financial reporting (including IFRS and UK GAAP), internal controls, and in governance issues facing both private and listed companies. He has broader experience as an ESG assurance leader alongside previous senior roles focussing on people, strategy, and technical audit and accounting topics.
He has worked with businesses through various transactions including acquisitions (buy and sell side), fund-raising and listing/delisting. His broad experience ensures Chris has an understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing his clients.
Notable client work and achievements
Chris has worked on several large and complex audits including FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 businesses. He has been the audit engagement leader for FTSE AIM 50 companies and large private organisations.
Chris was named Accountant of the Year at the North East Accountancy Awards in 2017.
Professional qualifications/memberships
- FCA Fellow Chartered Accountant of the ICAEW
- ACA Associate Chartered Accountant Qualification
- ICAEW Practicing Certificate
- ICAEW Audit Qualification
Article
Beyond accounting: Why the new FRS 102 could disrupt UK manufacturing businesses
Changes to revenue recognition and leases for FRS 102 reporters aren’t just a compliance issue. They create a real risk that decisions are made using numbers and data that no longer mean what management thinks they do.
Article
FRS 102 changes to the energy sector: What you need to know
The Financial Reporting Council's substantial amendments to FRS 102 are likely to have a significant impact on entities operating in the renewable energy sector. That includes battery storage service providers, renewable energy generators, network operators and those who trade in energy products.