Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has named partner, Jonathan Lanes, as its new head of manufacturing in the Midlands.
Having successfully led BDO’s Digital and Risk Advisory Services (DRAS) team in the Midlands since January 2022, Jonathan takes over the role from Jon Gilpin, who was appointed as head of audit at BDO in the Midlands last year.
In his new position, Jonathan will be responsible for managing the Midlands manufacturing team, bringing together the very best experts and specialists to add real value to the sector. He will also continue in his role as head of DRAS in the region.
Since joining the firm in 2007, Jonathan has built a strong reputation in the region for his commercial sector experience in manufacturing, which included a secondment at a large, listed Midlands manufacturer. He works with many of the firm’s largest listed and international manufacturing clients, delivering internal audit, risk management and corporate governance services.
Commenting on his appointment, Jonathan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking over the role of head of manufacturing in the Midlands.
“The region has a rich heritage in manufacturing, which spans from general industrial automotive, aerospace, building products, food and apparel. In addition, the region provides specialist services to the sector, including engineering, assembly, machining, and head treatment services. As such, the market contributes significantly to the Midlands economy, accounting for nearly 600,000 jobs, while continuing to be a strong export performer – not only in the EU, but also in North America, Asia and Oceania.
“It’s for this reason why we place such a strong emphasis on manufacturing in the region, recognising its importance to the Midlands, while understanding the integral role we can play in supporting manufacturing businesses as they continue to navigate the ever-changing and complex economic environment.”
BDO works alongside nearly 300 manufacturers across the Midlands, and 1,750 nationally. It provides services such as sector-specific accountancy, tax and business advice, as well as support on R&D claims and M&A opportunities.
Kyla Bellingall, regional managing partner at BDO in the Midlands, said: “Jonathan’s huge experience in the manufacturing sector makes him the ideal candidate to take over from Jon, who has done a fantastic job over the last few years.
“Manufacturing is a priority industry for BDO and, as such, we take pride in understanding the key issues affecting businesses across a swathe of sub-sectors. Jonathan will use his industry and advisory experience to help drive our proposition as we continue to use our capabilities to offer solutions to real challenges, while enabling our clients to grow in the UK and overseas.”
