RSM Capto, Georgia’s independent member firm of leading global audit tax and advisory network RSM International, is delighted that UK firm Baker Tilly is joining the RSM International network. This admission reinforces RSM’s position as the 7th largest global accounting network and will potentially open up significant new cross border client opportunities between Georgia and the UK.

Baker Tilly acquired RSM International’s previous UK member firm, RSM Tenon, in August last year, creating a firm of around 3,500 partners and staff and a fee income of over £300m. As the 7th largest accountancy firm in the UK, Baker Tilly has over 40 offices across the UK and is one of the foremost providers of professional services to entrepreneurial and growing businesses.

The acquisition of RSM Tenon gave Baker Tilly the opportunity to consider its international network membership options and, after a period of detailed consideration, the Firm felt RSM was better aligned with Baker Tilly’s client needs and international growth aspirations. For a short transition period, the UK firm will continue to trade as Baker Tilly, after which it will then formally adopt the global network name and corporate identity.

Giorgi Kvinikadze, company director from RSM Capto commented “We are excited that Baker Tilly in the UK is joining RSM International. As the network’s Georgian member firm, we have a large internationally dynamic client base that has established, or is looking to set up, operations in the UK and we receive many new business enquiries from UK organisations looking to establish a base here in Georgia. Having such a large and highly regarded firm as Baker Tilly in the UK as our international partner firm will be of real benefit to these companies.”

Jean Stephens, CEO of RSM International, commented: “Baker Tilly is a large, well respected, quality national UK firm with a diverse client base. There is a natural alignment with RSM with respect to core values, focus on quality and aspirations for growth and development. In reaching this decision, we have engaged in an in-depth mutual due diligence process. The Baker Tilly team has met with RSM members in Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, Africa and the US and it is clear there is a strong cultural fit and alignment in vision and purpose. I am delighted Baker Tilly will be joining the RSM network as our UK member firm. Their admission will be of significant benefit to clients of RSM Capto and other RSM member firms across the globe.”

Laurence Longe, Baker Tilly’s Managing Partner, said, “Membership in the dynamic global network of RSM will bring huge benefits to Baker Tilly and we believe it to be in the best interests of our clients, partners and staff. We are proud of the quality of our service delivery and our excellent client list and have full confidence that RSM member firms will help us deliver the services our expanding international client base requires.  Our Firm’s strategic vision fits perfectly with that of RSM and we are very pleased to be joining such a vibrant, forward-thinking network. We have established a large international desk structure to support the increasing business flow to and from countries all over the globe, and we look forward to working with RSM Capto Group in Georgia”.