Ballards LLP - the chartered accountancy and consultancy company - has signalled its next phase of growth by expanding into Birmingham’s prestigious Colmore Row district, and appointing experienced dealmaker Rich Grover as corporate finance partner.
The move represents the firm's’commitment to the Birmingham market having signed a five-year lease, significantly increasing their space and moving to the heart of the City’s financial district.
Andy Bewick, corporate and international partner, who heads Ballards’ Birmingham office, said:“Opening on Colmore Row is a natural next step for Ballards. We have built a strong Midlands foundation and Birmingham is where the region's corporate heart beats.
"Having a Birmingham base has been great for our existing clients and the new office allows us to meet more of the right people, forge stronger partnerships and take our unique blend of services to a bigger stage, as well as attract new talent as we continue to grow.”
Ballards provides expertise in tax, audit and compliance, alongside strategic advice on transactions and investment. The company also offers technology transformation, workforce management, recruitment and digital marketing performance services, helping ambitious businesses unlock growth, efficiency and long-term value.
Rich Grover trained at Deloitte and spent nine years at Hazlewoods in Gloucestershire, advising on more than 40 transactions worth over £205 million, including the £18.1 million sale of Smart Numbers Ltd to YFM Equity Partners. At Ballards, Rich will lead a highly personal, partner-led approach to buying and selling companies, preparing businesses for sale, marketing to achieve optimal outcomes and guiding clients through transition and succession planning.
He said: “This is an incredibly exciting time to join Ballards. The company already delivers expertise with agility and now we are stepping up again. Birmingham’s corporate landscape is expansive, connected and ambitious, and being here means we can work side by side with clients, partners and funders to deliver transformative deals.”
Andy Bewick said:“Our Birmingham team is already advising on high value transactions and working alongside leading banks, investors and professional firms. Colmore Row gives us a sophisticated, fresh base to elevate the Ballards brand, deepen client relationships and focus on the sectors driving the Midlands growth.”
