Accountancy and Business Advisory firm Grant Thornton has promoted Jess Fountain to Partner, where she is one of the leaders of the Midlands-based tax team.
A tax specialist, Jess has been with the firm for eight years and works extensively with privately owned and private equity backed clients advising on acquisitions, disposals, and expansion strategies. Jess specialises in being a trusted adviser to growing businesses, supporting them to navigate the often complex tax landscape as their business develops.
Unusually, this career milestone promotion arrived when Jess was away from work. She completed her final interview in the partnership process just three weeks before starting maternity leave, with the confirmation arriving while she was on the break.
“I spend most of my time supporting businesses to achieve their strategic goals, so it feels great to have achieved one of my own personal goals,” said Jess.
“The last eight years have shot by, and Grant Thornton’s empowering culture has helped me greatly in my progression. This is a people-friendly environment, where everything is focused on creating the right conditions for you to excel in your role.”
She added: “Anyone who makes it to partner understands that the achievement reflects a great deal hard work, dedication, and commitment. I hope other women pursuing careers in finance receive the same level of support I have enjoyed.
“I was somewhat anxious about how pregnancy and motherhood might impact my career, but Grant Thornton reassured me throughout the process.”
Matt Buckingham, Practice Leader of Grant Thornton in the Midlands, adds: “Jess is a gifted professional advisor who makes a valuable contribution to everything we are doing in one of the most dynamic parts of the marketplace.
“Grant Thornton places a huge focus on ensuring we have an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone has an opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender, ethnic or socio-economic background, sexual orientation or neurodiversity.
“It is particularly pleasing that Jess joined our Partnership team whilst on maternity leave. Jess further strengthens our local senior leadership team.”
