Today marks a milestone in Simpson Wood’s history. Our senior partner Giles Cliffe is retiring, from accountancy at least, after over 25 years with Simpson Wood.

Giles originally trained in a national practice in Manchester, but being Huddersfield born and bred, he jumped at the chance to join Simpson Wood in 1988. He rose through the ranks becoming a partner in 1994 and then senior partner in 2005.

Giles is a lover of classics, having gained a degree in the subject from Cambridge and reinvigorates his interest on holidays in Greece and Italy.

He is also a staunch Huddersfield Town fan, and can be regularly seen at John Smith’s Stadium cheering them on, unless of course he is playing cricket. Once he gets to the crease, it could be a long afternoon!

Giles is a big character within the firm, popular with staff, clients and contacts and will be sorely missed. We wish him luck with his change of direction as he aims to obtain the TEFL qualification to teach English as a foreign language.

This is not the only milestone for Simpson Wood however, as from 1 October 2014, the practice will be incorporated into a limited company called Simpson Wood Limited (accountants are not known for their imagination!).

Mark Fielding, who himself has been a partner here since 1998, will be trying his best to fill Giles’ shoes and maintain the traditions of Simpson Wood in the role of managing director.

We are planning for a seamless transition, maintaining the provision of a personal service and also of expert advice which is tailored to the needs of every business and individual that we serve.