Parramatta accounting practice Priestley & Morris will significantly increase its presence in Western Sydney through its merger with national chartered Accounting and Advisory firm William Buck Sydney (William Buck).

 

The merger will see current Partners Andrew Cordwell and Michele Nevill, and their staff, join William Buck on 1 September. 

 

Priestley & Morris Partner Andrew Cordwell says, “The merger allows us to provide added depth and specialist services for our clients in Western Sydney. We chose William Buck because of their collegiate approach to doing business – their partnership of business and community values is what makes this such a fantastic opportunity for our clients and people.”

 

“Parramatta is the CBD of the West and covers a broad geographic area and diverse business base. Many of the growing businesses in the area are looking for a high level of professional accounting services which is offered by mid-tier practices. We are now well placed to tap into this market through the merger.”

 

He added, “Legal, manufacturing, distribution and not-for-profit enterprises are seen as four major growth areas for the business.”

 

Mr Cordwell joined Priestley & Morris in 1971 and moved to the Parramatta office as partner in 1984. Ms Nevill commenced with the practice in 1989 and gained partner status in 2001.

 

As part of its commitment to Western Sydney, William Buck will be transitioning several key executives to the Parramatta office to service its growing presence there.

 

“Priestley & Morris is a well-established practice in Parramatta and the Greater Western Sydney area with a deep skills base and excellent clients. Their focus on SMEs complements our existing client acquisition strategy,” said Mr Nick Hatzistergos, Managing Director of William Buck Sydney.

 

“We are firmly planting our presence in the middle of a growing SME heartland and intend to become an integral part of the business community. With both State and Federal governments planning major infrastructure initiatives for Western Sydney, including a second airport and light rail project, it’s a natural fit for William Buck to expand there,” he added.

William Buck has already formed several key relationships with legal firms, banks and educational institutions in Western Sydney.

 

In the current financial year, William Buck Sydney will achieve a revenue target of approximately $25 million, which is up 20% per cent on the 2014 financial year. Staff numbers will climb to 150 people post-merger.