Westcotts bolsters leadership team with double director promotion

Westcotts, a leading South West firm of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, has strengthened its leadership team with the promotion of Simon Irvin to People Director and Ben Absalom to Director.

The appointments highlight the firm’s continued investment in its people and its commitment to providing trusted, expert advice to clients across the South West.

Based in the firm’s Exeter office, Simon Irvin is responsible for leading Westcotts’ people strategy across HR, recruitment, learning and development. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (FCIPD), Simon brings more than 25 years of senior HR leadership experience spanning retail, manufacturing, hospitality and professional services.

He has been instrumental in shaping Westcotts’ award-winning approach to people and culture, helping the firm achieve its Investors in People Gold accreditation and ensuring employee engagement and professional development remain at the heart of the business.

Outside of work, Simon enjoys spending time with his family and is passionate about staying active, whether on the tennis court, running, cycling or walking his dog.

Simon said: “I am incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built at Westcotts and the genuine focus we place on our people. Supporting colleagues to develop and reach their potential is central to how we work and it is a privilege to now lead this across the firm.”

Based in the firm’s Plymouth office, Ben Absalom ACA plays a key role in helping clients achieve success, on their terms – whether that means growth, sustainability or greater efficiency.

With more than a decade of experience in practice, he specialises in digital accounting services, advising businesses on software solutions that streamline operations and improve performance. He works with clients across a broad range of sectors and has a growing focus on the property sector.

Alongside his client work, Ben also supports the Plymouth team in their professional development and training.

Ben said: “After more than 10 years in practice, I’ve learned that success looks different for every client. Taking the time to understand what that means for them allows me to provide proactive, tailored advice that genuinely makes a difference.”

Outside of work, Ben is a keen sports enthusiast and can often be found on the golf course or playing tennis, squash or padel. He also has a passion for cars and motorsport and once climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, raising more than £3,000 for the Meningitis Foundation.

Shona Godefroy, Westcotts Managing Partner, said: “Simon and Ben’s promotions are very well deserved and reflect their commitment, expertise and contribution to Westcotts’ continued success.

“Simon has been pivotal in developing our people strategy and creating a culture where our teams and individuals can thrive. Ben is another great example of someone who has benefited from this, taking the opportunity to grow within the firm while developing his own area of expertise and excellent client relationships.”

Westcotts Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers has a team of experienced and talented experts with a wealth of knowledge offering a wide range of specialisms and services. The firm has supported individuals and businesses across diverse sectors operating in local, national, and international markets for more than 40 years.