TaxAssist Accountants, the largest network of accountants specialising in providing services to small businesses, has bolstered its board of executive directors as it continues to grow its operations both in the UK and abroad.

James Mattam, previously Senior Business Development Manager, has been promoted to Group Business Development Director, while his predecessor Sarah Robertson will take on wider responsibility as Group Operations Director.

James joined TaxAssist Accountants after leaving university in 1999 and has played a key role in helping to generate business for the TaxAssist network. He has also managed important relationships with suppliers and partners, ensuring TaxAssist remains a leading force in the accountancy industry and the small business market.

His new role will see James responsible for marketing strategy, brand development, shop fronts, practice management and business development strategies for the UK accounting network and international matters.

Sarah has been a director at TaxAssist since 2004 and helped transform the business development department, which included successfully introducing shopfront premises for many franchisees and contributing extensively to the overall development of the business.

With her comprehensive knowledge of the network and skillset, Sarah will bring a different dynamic to the role as she focuses on recruiting new franchisees and making sure that TaxAssist continues to embrace the latest technological advances.

Outgoing Group Operations Director Phil Sullivan will become Group Finance Director, while Karl Sandall and Ray Clarke remain as Group Chief Executive Director and Group Technical Director respectively.

Karl said: “As the TaxAssist network grows both in the UK and internationally, we have ensured our franchisees are able to continue to receive support from a highly experienced and skilled board.

“Sarah’s new role was a natural progression so she can take on wider group responsibilities, and I am delighted we have been able to promote James in recognition of his hard work and contributions to the TaxAssist success story.”