PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Smith & Williamson
Accountancy, investment management and tax group
MARTYN FRASER
Partner in the Bristol office I work in the 10-strong corporate finance team in Smith & Williamson’s Bristol office, working with business owners to achieve their ambitions whether through helping to raise new finance, sell or make acquisitions or even list on the stock market. I enjoy the variety and get particular satisfaction helping to devise and deliver solutions to difficult problems that might at first seem insurmountable.
Natasha Bliss from Metcalfes; below right: Martyn Fraser from Smith & Williamson
developing economies such the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India & China). www.burstoncook.co.uk
Metcalfes
Metcalfes is a Bristol city-centre law firm that provides a comprehensive range of legal expertise for families and businesses
NATASHA BLISS NOW FOR THE IMPORTANT BIT – WHERE ARE YOU TAKING THE TEAM FOR XMAS PARTY? “We try to go somewhere new each year, with so many places to choose from. Last year we went to Goldbrick House; this year we will be going to Cote in Clifton Village – it’s always a winner with our team! Drinks beforehand at the Brunel Wine Bar.” Matthew Wofinden, IBC “This year we are going to Bordeaux Quay where the menu looks very exciting. We have previously had some very enjoyable parties at Aqua, Graze Bar & Chop House and Loch Fyne. We have a strong relationship with these businesses as their growth and success is indicative of how Metcalfes likes to cultivate and develop relationships with companies that we act for.” Natalie Bliss, Metcalfes
Partner in commercial litigation The pressure of litigation should never be underestimated, whether you are the claimant or the defendant. As cases can go on and on for many months or years, this can have a knock-on effect on time and costs for a business. However, as a result of this, my job means I get to cultivate and grow relationships with these businesses and help guide them through difficult times, which is incredibly rewarding.
So Brexit is (probably) going to happen early next year. What’s been the fallout so far? It is difficult to argue that the immediate economic consequences of the vote on 23 June were as dramatic as the political ones. It’s been business as usual for our corporate finance team and we have not experienced any projects being put on hold. You do hear of examples anecdotally but it is difficult to say whether they are a direct consequence of Brexit. That said, the current uncertainty is unhelpful for businesses faced with making medium term strategic investment decisions but it’s too soon to gauge what the impact will be on those. Are there any reasons to be cheerful? Bristol is a fantastic place to live and work. Businesses are thriving and we are fortunate enough to have more than our fair share of entrepreneurial talent leading the way. www.smith.williamson.co.uk
Why are so many firms relocating to Bristol? Bristol is an exciting city which has a large number of accountants, bank and law firms, as well as being a technological hub. It has been voted the number-one place to do business by the Legatum institute and I believe this is 100% earned. Personally, I believe Bristol has it all; green spaces, easy access to London, Devon and Cornwall, fantastic after-work socialising opportunities and an overall vibrant and relaxed ambience. More businesses in the area can only be a good thing as this will further enhance the city’s growing reputation as one of the best places to live and work in the country. Additionally from a business standpoint, we believe our historical association and well-established connections in this city make Metcalfes, and the wide array of services we provide, the perfect local solicitors any new business in the area may need. www.burstoncook.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 105